Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu
The Malibu Hybrid is Chevrolet’s new gasoline-electric
hybrid version of the redesigned midsize Malibu sedan. With
a bold new design that includes a dual-port grille and
upscale elements such as an available two-tone interior the
new Malibu continues to be a five-seat front-wheel-drive
sedan but increases in size. The Malibu name was first used
for the top-level Chevelle in 1964 and the name returned for
the 1997 model year as an all-new front-wheel-drive sedan.
Toyota's hybrid success in the United States now call the
American producer on the plan in October at GM begins
production of the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid. GM promises to be
next to the image, above all, a better position in the
battle for the top position in the admission figures in his
own country. The Malibu is equipped with a 2.4 L gasoline
engine, with 164 hp at maximum benefits renounced. Even the
220 Nm of torque are rather average, but at least there are
electrical support. The repertoire of gasoline-saving
features is the standard, start-stop automatic, brake energy
recovery and an intelligent battery charging system to help
the average consumption reduction. 7.5 l per 100 km,
however, are rather average.
The 2008 Malibu claims compete in terms of quality, value, but
also of style. We must admit that the designers were able to
give this time Malibu a style much more catchy. If the
previous generation had many followers, the new Malibu may
appeal to a much wider audience. Its lines are more fluid
and really appreciated his biggest grid before, which gives
it more presence.
The LTZ version, the most opulent of the lot, also inherits
distinctive exterior elements, including 18-inch wheels
alloy. For the moment, the LTZ version can be ordered only
with the V6 engine, but GM intends to offer equipped with
the four-cylinder engine quickly. We do not want to restrict
this version to a single engine.
If outside the Malibu is greatly improved, the interior also
benefits improvements. The passenger of the Malibu adopted
the style of the new GM interiors, especially in regards to
the centre console. It recognizes the system now common to
all sedans by the manufacturer. The console is not without
charm remind us that the new Cadillac CTS.
At the wheel, Malibu adopt a behavior much healthier than the
previous generation. The chassis is more rigid, more precise
direction, even if it remains a little blurred and his
suspension supports better cornering the vehicle. While
Malibu is not as a sport or a Mazda6 Agreement, but overall
it reveals a more dynamic. This element is provided mainly
by size, and increased wheelbase.
If the V6 offers a little more pep, especially in overtaking
maneuver, the four-cylinder is suitable for most of your
needs, while consuming reasonably. If you enjoy long trips
with your family, I would suggest strongly that engine. It
is more interesting when the car is heavily loaded while
being more efficient in the mountainous area.
GM is in the right direction. There is a marked improvement
in product product. In fact, I found the Chevrolet Malibu
superior to the new Saturn Aura, introduced yet there is
barely a year. Hopefully new vehicles continue to make
progress in the same direction. As for the Malibu, it has
acquired a little more "mature" to better compete with the
competition. Rest of the builder to convince buyers and more
importantly, to change their perception of the products.