Monday, August 13, 2012

Chevrolet Malibu: Economical and Fun



The new 2012 Chevrolet Malibu brings comfort and convenience to the tough midsize car market with such desirable features as a roomy cabin with seating for five and a huge 15 cubic foot trunk for more than adequate storage. The Malibu continues to be Chevy's stalwart entry in the car market, offering many upgraded options while keeping a budget price tag.

Hit Refresh on the Malibu

The Malibu will receive a nearly complete overhaul for 2013 and is likely to get significant upgrades in horsepower and room. Expected to up the trunk space to over 16 cubic feet, the newest Malibu should be wider and roomier. Engine horsepower on the base model is expected to reach 190, and the suspension is also expected to receive an upgrade. For the upgraded four-cylinder engine, the Malibu is likely to receive the 2.0 liter Buick Regal engine, which puts out 220 horses. The Eco version of the Malibu was just recently announced and is estimated to get up to 38 mpg on the highway and will use GM's eAssist hybrid system.

Trim Choices

The Malibu comes in three different trims and offers several choices in interior and exterior colors. The standard engine in the Malibu is the 2.4-liter four-cylinder, however, the LT and LT-Z trims have a 3.6 liter V6 as an optional engine. Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission and a fun manual shift mode. The Malibu engines put out 169 horsepower for the four-cylinder and 252 for the V6.

Midsize Competitor 

Buyers looking at the midsize market typically want a fuel efficient car, and the Malibu does not disappoint. Easily competitive with most other cars in its class, the Malibu gets 22 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with a 28 average. The Malibu also has many safety features including anti-lock brakes, OnStar, traction control, side, passenger and driver airbags, daytime running lights and a tire pressure monitor. The Malibu features several luxury options, including leather interior, heated seats and such technology options as Bluetooth, SiriusXM, USB ports, a navigation system, Bose sound and mobile apps.

Safe, fun to drive, economical and firmly in the 21st century, the Chevrolet Malibu continues to be a strong entry in the midsize car market.

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