2016 Chevrolet Malibu: Finally the Car We Deserve
In recent years, the Chevrolet Malibu has been a bit of a joke. Even quick refreshes couldn’t save it. Meanwhile, cars like the Impala seemed so much better, and so different. At times, it was hard to imagine that both cars were created by the same company.
But that’s changed for 2016. Debuting at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, the new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu finally looks like they figured out it. Larger than the previous model, the car resembles a bit of the new Volt, and I can even see a bit of Camaro in there.
Speaking of the Camaro, one of the big stories with the new car is weight savings. Replacing the standard 2.5L engine is a new 1.5L four-cylinder turbo that saves 300 pounds of lard from the car.
That engine is a bit special, making 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Combine that with standard start stop technology, and GM claims the new car will get 27 mpg in the city. That’s impressive for a non-hybrid, normal sedan.
Chevrolet is also introducing their top-level Premier trim with the Malibu. Like Titanium with Ford, the Premier has all the stuff you might want. Also, the 2.0L turbo that’s in the higher-trim vehicles has a first-for-GM-front-wheel-drive 8-speed automatic transmission.
The 9th generation Malibu will go on sale as a 2016 model.
What say you, people of Chevyland? Is the Malibu finally up to snuff? Let us know in the forums!
