Vehicle Preview: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu


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All-new premium design that’s longer, more comfortable and more fuel-efficient

An American classic for more than 50 years, the Chevrolet Malibu is completely new for 2016, from the ground up. Longer, roomier and significantly lighter than before, the exciting 2016 Malibu is also more efficient, and it’s packed with new features and innovative new connectivity and technology. There’s also a new Malibu model for 2016 – the exceptionally efficient Malibu Hybrid.

“Midsize car customers tell us they want great fuel economy and connected technologies, wrapped in a gorgeous exterior. This is exactly what the 2016 Malibu was engineered to do,” said Malibu Chief Engineer Jesse Ortega.

Available in L, LS, LT and Premier trims, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu sits on a new wheelbase that’s 3.6 inches longer than previously. It’s 2.3 inches longer overall, and it’s also nearly 300 pounds lighter. These changes equate to greater driving comfort, more interior space, better handling agility and improved fuel economy.

Debuting a new hybrid powertrain that was developed using knowledge gained from the plug-in Volt hybrid, the front-wheel drive 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid will deliver a GM-estimated 48 mpg city, 45 mpg highway, 47 mpg combined, economy unsurpassed in the segment, and it can travel up to 55 mph on electric power alone. The Malibu Hybrid powertrain includes an all-new direct-injection 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a two-motor drive unit similar to the one in the 2016 Volt, and an 80-cell, 1.5-kilowatt lithium-ion battery pack. Total system output is 182 hp.

The non-hybrid 2016 Malibu is standard with an all-new 1.5-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine. Lightweight and powerful, the turbocharged 1.5-liter produces 160 hp and 184 lb/ft of torque – torque comparable to that of the outgoing 2.5-liter four-cylinder, in a vehicle almost 300 pounds lighter. Fuel-saving engine start/stop technology helps the four-cylinder-equipped Malibu return an impressive 27 mpg city––an eight percent increase over the previous model––and 37 mpg highway.

Also available is a high-output 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an all-new GM-developed eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter will generate an estimated 250 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque while returning 32 mpg highway.

A completely new exterior design features slim, sweeping headlamps, a more aggressive-looking dual-port grille and eye-catching body creases that increase visual intensity. The new Malibu is more aerodynamic that before, and available Active Grille Shutters improve aerodynamics further. The restyled Malibu can be equipped with full LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps, creating a more sophisticated look.

Step inside and stretch out in the roomiest Malibu ever. The five-seat cabin has an additional 1.3 inches of legroom, for a total of 38.1 inches, and there’s a big 15.8 cubic foot trunk.

The redesigned Malibu is rich with the latest connectivity technology, including segment-exclusive OnStar 4G LTE in-vehicle connectivity, available wireless phone charging and available dual rear-seat USB ports with 110-volt power outlet. Standard on most Malibu models is the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with seven-inch color touchscreen or the eight-inch MyLink system with 3D map viewing. The seven-inch MyLink system features the convenient Android Auto and Apple CarPlay systems, fully integrating smartphone features into the vehicle display for smart, simple, hands-free operation.

You can have as much luxury as you want in your new Malibu, too. Items like Galvano satin chrome trim accents are standard, and amenities like perforated leather upholstery and (Malibu-first) ventilated seats are standard in the new Malibu Premier trim.

New Teen Driver technology mutes audio and any paired devices when front seat occupants aren’t wearing their safety belts. Teen Driver also features visual and audible warnings when the vehicle exceeds preset speeds. Chevy’s Teen Driver system is the industry’s first with a built-in component that lets parents view on a screen how the vehicle was driven, including maximum speed, distance driven and number of times active safety features were engaged.

Malibu also includes a comprehensive list of standard and available driver assist technologies, including Front Pedestrian Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Front and Rear Park Assist and Intellibeam automatic high beams.

The reimagined Chevrolet Malibu is ready to extend its 50-year reign as an American favorite. Attractive, seriously efficient and great to drive, the new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has the comfort, safety and connectivity to fit a wide range of family lifestyles and budgets. Contact us today for more details and updates on availability, so when the new Malibu arrives later this year, you’ll be at the front of the line.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio. www.jackmaxton.com