The Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is touted as an affordable, fuel-efficient midsize sedan. The strong bold look of this popular hybrid enters its second year to high demand, with GM deeming only a handful of tweaks necessary. Due to improvements in battery charge/discharge rates and new low rolling-resistance tires, mileage is improved over the 2008 model (which was 32 highway/24 city). Equipped with GM’s BAS Hybrid system consisting of an electric motor/generator and 36-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack mated to the 2.4-liter Ecotec VVT 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed transmission, the Malibu churns out 164 HP.
- Better fuel economy (34 highway/26 city) than 2008 model
- Five new exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, Golden Pewter Metallic and Silver Moss Metallic
- 17-inch aluminum wheels with touring tires standard
Elegant and clean yet distinctive, we test drove the 2008 Malibu Hybrid—check out these photos from our weeklong romp. With little to critique, we duly noted GM’s extra-attention to the all-important interior details.
- Base price: $24,695
- 2.4-liter engine with electric/motor generator and 36V NiMH battery pack
- EPA fuel economy: 34 highway/26 city
- Warranty: 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain, hybrid components 8-year/100,000-mile
- ECO fuel economy light for when vehicle exceeds EPA estimates
- Specific hybrid Driver Information Center