What I liked about the Chevrolet Malibu:
- Quiet, refined four-cylinder engine
- Great looking interior, even in the base models
- Comfortable ride
What I didn't like:
- Steering offers little feedback
- Mediocre back seat
- Options list doesn't include a navigation system
- Base model doesn't get standard electronic stability control
Who should buy the Chevrolet Malibu:
Anyone who's ever said "I'd buy an American car if I could find one as good as the Japanese"
Who should not buy the Chevrolet Malibu:
Those who value driver involvement above decor
2008 Chevrolet Malibu details and specs:
- Body style: 4-door sedan
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ, Hybrid
- Price range (including options): $19,995 - $28,415
- Base engine: 2.4 liter inline 4-cylinder, 169 hp @ 6400 RPM, 160 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
- Optional engine: 2.4 liter inline 4-cylinder with motor/generator, 164 hp @ 6400 RPM, 159 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM; 3.6 liter V6, 252 hp @ 6300 RPM, 251 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
- Premium fuel required? No
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 22 MPG city/30 MPG highway (2.4 w/ 4-speed automatic), 24/32 (2.4 hybrid), 17/26 (3.6 V6)
- Where built: United States
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control (LT/LTZ/Hybrid only)
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, locks and mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, CD/MP3 player
- Major options: Leather interior, keyless entry, power-adjustable heated front seats, remote starting, 6-disc CD changer
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/100,000 miles powertrain, 6 years/100,000 miles outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 5 years/100,000 miles roadside assistance
