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Chevy’s mid-size Malibu

 
6 1,188 views Dec 28, 2006

Chevy’s mid-size Malibu

Chevy’s mid-size Malibu

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After a couple of teasers and even a premature leak, this is the first look at Chevrolet’s all-important Malibu midsize sedan before its unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show. The new Malibu will go head to head with best-selling rivals such as the Toyota Camry and GM has taken advantage of its global development program to ensure it’s a close fight. The Malibu is based on the FWD Epsilon platform that’s also used on the Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura, and the Saab 9-3, but this new model is based on a longer-wheelbase variant that makes it larger than its competitors.

The new design, featuring Chevrolet's new "brand face," gives the Malibu a more upmarket style. Overall, it’s a big improvement compared to the previous model. The interior hasn’t been neglected, either. Unusually, GM’s first sneak peek of the Malibu was the inside, and you can see why. GM is finally learning the art of building more attractive interiors (check out the China-only Cadillac SLS if you still doubt us), but we’ll have to view it in the flesh to see how good it really is.

The higher-spec model is powered by a 3.6L V6 pumping out 252hp, complete with a 6-speed auto transmission with optional paddle-shifters. The base Malibu gets a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with 164hp, mated to a four or six-speed auto depending on the trim you choose.

Click ahead for more photos.

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Comments (6)

  1. By Franklin Posted: 12/29/2006 3:25am PST

    I like it. I like it much better than the Saturn Aura.
     
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  2. By Todd Holling Posted: 12/29/2006 12:43pm PST

    When viewed from the side, it looks very European. But once again...Chevy screwed up the rear. But overall, this is a great car. The front is definitely bold. For the first time in years, I would actually consider buying a Chevy car.

    Is GM on the right track? Based on this car, combined with the great new offering from Saturn and Caddy’s bold direction, I would have to say yes.

    Now GM just needs to dump the Buick line and take the money it was using on Buick and use to return Saab to its former glory. If they do this, the General has good shot at staying number 1.
     
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  3. By Brian '94 ImpSS Posted: 12/29/2006 3:26pm PST

    Looks great but still FWD? UGH!
     
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  4. By Aron Komar Posted: 12/30/2006 2:44pm PST

    A while ago, someone asked J Mays (Ford's former Chief Designer) as to why the Domestics lost the family sedan market. To it, he replied, "the domestics didn't lose it, but we just walked away from it."

    And, they are back with a vengeance....GM is cranking out cars that people would love to associate with. As soon as GM gets rid of the structural cost disadvantages vis-a-vis Japanese, GM will make better looking cars than Japaneses could.

    Thanks.
     
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  5. By g__ Posted: 1/1/2007 10:56pm PST

    wow,chevy still does'nt get it. what's up with the girly fwd? get with it chevy, it look's nice but you dropped the ball again!
     
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  6. By 96 impala ss Posted: 2/3/2008 3:52pm PST

    the car looks way better than any toyota out there.
     
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