2008 Chevrolet Malibu Austell GA

November 18, 2009   By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor



2008 Chevrolet Malibu

DriverSide Overview
In nature, evolution generally occurs over thousands or even millions of years. In the car industry, it can happen almost overnight. Some may say that the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is one such miracle, going from thumbless primate to chatty Homo sapien in a matter of a model year. Besides the new body design, the Malibu has grown six inches in the wheelbase and three inches overall. Two engines choices, a four-cylinder and V-6, match the segment standards in horsepower and torque. But where you spend most of your time, the cabin, is where we make a most shocking discovery: it is incredibly pretty. This evolution is an advancement indeed. 








What's to Like
The all-new exterior literally made us do a double – no, make that a triple - take. It is that much of an improvement. Its price point is bang on target with its class – stacking it up against the big players.

What's Not to Like
The four-speed automatic gearbox is a tad outdated. Visibility is limited due to huge pillars and the 18-inch aluminum wheels tacked onto the LTZ trim cheapen the car's overall look.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
The improvement in drive quality is refreshing to see in an American car. The four-cylinder may have some difficulty pulling the 3400-pound car in dynamic driving situations, but around town it needs nothing more. The four-speed transmission falls short of the competition though, with many having graduated to five-speeds by now. The V-6's additional power gives the weighty car a far more impressive push, but the Malibu has a hard time controlling it all, falling prey to torque steer. Sluggish acceleration out of corners and in passing situations can’t equal those of more finely tuned engines from manufacturers like Honda. Road noise isn't as blanketed as we'd wish, but for cruising at high speeds or in the urban alleyways, this sedan is perfect. Over the most torn up city streets, the Malibu's suspension softens up manholes and gravelly construction zones brilliantly.

Engine and Drivetrain
The Malibu's smaller engine is a 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder, which produces 169 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The larger engine is a pretty dynamic 3.6-liter V-6 engine that’s mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. It generates 252 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. A manual mode holds the revs well, but only marginally provides any more control over the drive than in D mode.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
Attention extra long and vertically challenged drivers: An available button on the left of the steering wheel adjusts the position of the brake and gas pedals. This, in addition to a standard tilting and telescoping steering wheel, offers an utmost driving position. Standard features are abundant and include cruise...

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