2013 Chevrolet Malibu Review: Design and Performance

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Review: Design and Performance

The Chevrolet Malibu has been a cornerstone of the American automotive industry since its inception in 1978. Now in its eighth generation, the Malibu has previously been exclusive to the North American market, but starting next year, it will be available in over 100 countries, including the Middle East, for the first time.

Equipped with a four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, the Malibu stands as a robust midsize sedan, offering agile and precise handling compared to its competitors in the same category.

The new Malibu will be offered in four trims:

1. 2.4L LS
2. LT
3. LTZ
4. 3.0L LTZ

Each trim features a wider wheelbase and more direct steering compared to the previous model.

While the 2013 Altima boasts noticeable improvements in its interior, it’s clear that the quality of interior finishes will be a fierce battleground among midsize sedans this year. Let's delve into the details:

Interior Design

Upon entering the Malibu, we were impressed by the high-quality cabin finishes. The wood-trimmed dashboard and comfortable seats are enhanced by modern blue ambient lighting that illuminates the dashboard. We also appreciated the rear seat armrests with storage compartments, which are standard across all trims.

We were pleased with the push-button start feature, though we questioned why it isn't standard in the base models. In contrast, the Altima, a strong competitor, offers this feature across all its trims. Moreover, the Malibu does not excel in safety features. The standard model includes only the driver's airbag, while the passenger airbag is optional. Front and rear side airbags are available only in higher trims, and there are no rear seat belts in any models, although rear parking sensors and a backup camera are offered as options.

The Malibu earns praise for its strong braking capabilities, capable of stopping from 100 km/h in just 41 meters—2.4 meters shorter than the previous model. In the unfortunate event of a collision, the sturdy frame, composed of 65% high-strength steel, provides necessary protection. According to Chevrolet, the Malibu is 20% stronger than its predecessor.

Performance

The Malibu feels remarkably nimble as soon as we pressed the accelerator. With a highly efficient 2.4L engine and an optional 3.0L V6, the driving experience is incredibly smooth. Road handling is excellent, thanks to the variable effort steering available in the LTX model.

The new Malibu also excels in fuel efficiency, likely due to enhancements in aerodynamic design. Reduced air resistance has improved fuel economy by approximately 2.5 mpg, achieving efficiency levels close to those of the Corvette and even the electric Volt.

The minor additions are also noteworthy. The Malibu features the Chevrolet MyLink system, which includes a touchscreen that allows for wireless setup and storage capabilities. Most importantly, it is an intuitive system that helps us focus on the road ahead.

Conclusion

Overall, the Malibu is a more robust and agile vehicle compared to previous models. It earns recognition for its fuel efficiency and some advanced technological features. However, it does not rank as the best in its class for safety unless you opt for the higher trims.