2015 & 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Mega Review: A New ‘Bu Just for You!

The 2014-2016 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Limited on the left, and the all-new 2016 Malibu on the right.

1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS

Dating all the way back to the mid-1960’s, one could certainly say the Malibu name has some history. Taking its name from the city of Malibu in California, original Malibus were merely trim levels on the Chevrolet Chevelle before becoming its own model in 1978. Fast forward some years to the 90’s (the best decade ever of course), and Chevrolet decided to reintroduce the Malibu in 1997 as a midsized competitor to the likes of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. And for the most part, despite a few ups and downs here and there, the modern Malibu sedan has undoubtedly been responsible for keeping Chevy relevant in today’s midsize car market. Now fast forward again to the present day, and we have an all-new Malibu for the 2016 model year that is seeking to abolish previous notions about the modern Malibus being too “ho-hum” in their styling and driving dynamics. So does the new ninth generation Malibu succeed at this goal? Well today on Adam’s Autos, we shall find out!

But first… Let’s take a look at the outgoing Malibu (2013-2016*) for good measure and comparison sake. (*2016 Malibu Limited)

My test drives took place at Draper Auto in Saginaw, Michigan where Mr. Cole Davis was simply excellent in answering all of my questions. I’m impressed with the whole staff at Draper, so if you have any questions about their inventory or the latest Chevrolet or Toyota models to grace our roadways, be sure to give Mr. Davis a call at (989)-393-9282, or visit www.draperauto.com!

The 2013-2015 Malibu (2016 Malibu Limited)

The revised front of the 2014 Chevy Malibu.

 Redesigned for the 2013 model year on the Epsilon II platform, the eighth generation Malibu sought to improve upon an outgoing model that honestly, was already very, VERY good. The previous seventh generation Malibu ran from the 2008-2012 model years, and was even crowned the 2008 Car of the Year, a mere one year after its platform mate the Saturn Aura received the same award. Thus, this revised version of the Malibu had big shoes to fill. For 2013, besides revised exterior styling that made the car bigger overall on the exterior, the new ‘Bu featured revised trim levels, powertrain, and transmission options. Malibu’s numerous trims levels consisted of Chevy’s familiar LS, LT (which consisted of LT1, LT2 and LT3 variants depending on the model year), a new “Eco” trim, and then LTZ. A 2.5 liter 4-cylinder making 197 was standard on all trims except the Eco (in 2013), while a somewhat rare 2.0 turbocharged 4-cylinder making 259 horsepower was optional or standard on top-end models. All engines were mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Gone was the 3.6 liter V6 engine option, as the Malibu sought to be more in line with its competitors, which almost all had switched to 4-cylinder engine only lineups. The Eco trim level for 2013 came with essentially the old 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine paired to a battery-powered electric motor for a combined 182 horsepower. This model was not able to run primarily on the battery’s power, but did feature a stop-start system that would shut of the car’s engine at idle if certain conditions were met in an effort to save fuel. This Eco trim was revised for the Malibu’s 2014 refresh, and featured the newer 2.5-liter engine being paired to an eAssist mild-hybrid system that also had stop-start technology.

Hit the Refresh Button! And Quick!

I'm not sure I cared for the rear of this version of the Malibu much personally...

Now speaking of refresh: Response to the 2013 Malibu was very lukewarm to say the least, especially in regards to fuel economy and interior space. This prompted Chevy to rush some mid-cycle refreshes into the still-new Malibu early. So be aware (if you already aren’t) that there are TWO versions of the eighth generation Chevy Malibu. The 2013 model, which features a slightly different center console design and front end design, and the 2014 to 2016 model, with the revisions mentioned above, as well as some interior revisions (like more rear seat “space”) and equipment shuffling. Yes, the previous eighth generation Malibu is still on sale alongside the all-new ninth gen 2016 model as the “Malibu Limited”. Chevy did this with the 2014 Impala lineup a couple years ago too, and also back in 2004 and 2005 with the “Malibu Classic”, which we owned. Trust me, these newer ones are much better. …WHEW!!! Now all of THAT was a mouthful!

The interior accent lighting at night and other design touches were pretty cool in this Malibu, even though it felt cramped.

Driving It & What’s On the Inside

In my driving of this iteration of the Malibu, I found that the 2.5-liter engine felt just fine around town, so most buyers should be satisfied. It felt notably better I think than the older 2.4 liter 4-cylinder in various GM products, as that engine could feel “winded” if you needed to rev it up for more power. 0-60 will happen in about 8.5 seconds. The 2.5-liter also ran significantly smoother I noticed, and while my test 2013 model didn’t have the stop-start feature equipped to its engine yet (remember, that came in 2014), it’s been shown that the feature works well and saves fuel as it should. The ride was quite supple and comfortable, and the interior quiet (quieter than most other sedans like it in fact). The only major noises came from the engine when revved significantly, but most 4-cylinders sound whiny at higher revs anyways. Wind and road noise were negligible for the most part, and remember that an even more powerful 2.0 liter 4-cylinder is available, though it’s not particularly common from what I’ve observed and was told. This eighth generation Malibu certainly drove nice and comfortably (which will satisfy most buyers of this car), but not dynamic or particularly sporty in the least.

Overall interior comfort was mostly acceptable I guess, although visibility outward was just average and the rear seat was cramped, even with the seat adjusted to where I'd drive. And I mean it was NOTABLY more cramped than the outgoing Malibu or its competition. This is one area where everyone, including GM executives, acknowledge that the outgoing Malibu fell behind in. The new 2016 Malibu did remedy this issue, however, as we will discover shortly. Front seat comfort was just fine. A couple of the most notable things that stuck out to me about the older Malibu was how luxurious its interior felt. Soft-touch materials were literally EVERYWHERE, giving the car a much more expensive feeling. However, between the 2013 and 2014 model year, the center console was redesigned and the previous electronic E-brake was gotten rid of in favor of an old-school hand brake. Even though it was wrapped in leather and touches of chrome, it still looked and felt out of place in this new of a car, especially when the year before had a more modern style brake layout in it. Chevy’s MyLink infotainment touchscreen system functioned very well, the LTZ model I drove had many of the latest safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and forward collision alert, and the upgraded Pioneer speakers my tester had were of decent quality too. Steering was light and devoid of feel thanks to the electric power steering system, but the car was nimble enough overall. Headroom was plenty adequate and trunk space was decent, and enhanced by the fact that the rear seats fold to accommodate more cargo. Interior storage was average, but will be fine for most shoppers.

2013-2016 Malibu and Malibu Limited trunk space.

Overall, the 2013 to 2016 Malibu was a solid effort and would definitely be a solid buy for most people. However, it certainly wasn’t the most dynamic in its class in nearly any way, where just one generation earlier, it essentially was. Its somewhat of a two steps forward, one step back kind of scenario.

SO NOW, let’s check out the 2016 redesigned Malibu!

A New Bu’ For You! The 2016 Malibu

       

     Seeing yet another need to reestablish themselves in the midsize sedan segment, Chevrolet set out to create another new Malibu that not only was an improvement upon the last model which was a little disappointing in ways, but also dynamically different from its competition. Yes, they were looking at you Toyota, Ford and Kia. Enter the 2016 Malibu, which certainly looks more performance oriented than any Malibu before it. From its front bumper and hockey-stick style LED running lights, to its slightly blacked out headlights and body accents, there’s no denying the new Malibu makes one heck of a midsized styling statement. But is it too late, given that other companies have already made such statements in recent years? I think not, since GM had yet to make such a statement of their own in the midsized sedan segment. Past offerings were certainly good in their own regards, but never really shocked anyone honestly. Now, the Malibu stands out when its coming down the street, and that’s just what Chevy wants.

So What’s to It? And In It?

The new 2016 Malibu's 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder has just the right amount of get up and go for this car. It also sounds reasonably decent, too.

       The new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu comes in five trim levels: L, LS, 1LT, 2LT, and Premier. Powering this new Malibu is a new turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine making 163 horsepower all while paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available on the 2LT and Premier models is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder good for 250 horsepower paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 1.5-liter engine features stop-start technology that is, of course, designed to save fuel while at idle and turns the engine back on immediately when the driver’s foot comes off the brakes. A hybrid Malibu will also be available and will have a total output of 182 horsepower (gas and electric) and is supposed to achieve EPA figures of 48 MPGs city, 45 MPGs highway, and 47 MPGs combined. That’s impressive. However, this review will focus on the gas versions.

Behind The Wheel and Beyond

I REALLY liked the design and textures used in this new Malibu's interior,
despite there not being as many soft-touch surfaces in the new 2016 model.

Very comfortable, and much improved rear space overall!

My test drive put me behind the wheel of a Crystal Red Tintcoat 2016 1LT Malibu with a grey cloth interior and the 1.5 liter-turbocharged engine. I later went back to look at other 2016 Malibus (due to my laptop crashing and wiping out much of my data) and I looked at a black new Malibu with black cloth. This review will feature clips from both. From my experience, the 1.5-liter turbo won’t blow you away necessarily, but it certainly felt fine in normal driving conditions and even put a smile on my face when I revved up. Something about hearing that turbocharger whistle… It felt much more distinctive than the outgoing 2.5 non-turbo four-cylinder engine, likely due to its torque band. 0-60 will happen in about the same time as the old 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, or the 8 to 8.5 second range. The 2.0-liter turbo-four in very high end models would likely really give me something to smile at I’m sure. The overall ride was smooth and very quiet, seemingly quieter than the previous Malibu (which was already quiet mind you).

Chevy's MyLink system was fantastic and had Apple CarPlay &
Android Auto compatibility. Push button start is available too.

Part of the reason this new car was so comfortable was the fact that it felt much more spacious inside. I had plenty of room sitting in the rear seat with the driver’s seat adjusted to where I would drive. The new 2016 Malibu is about 300 pounds lighter than the outgoing model, and also longer, meaning there’s definitely more room to stretch out inside. Although, I did find the seats to be a little on the firm side at times. But they were definitely long haul comfortable after some adjustments were made! I like the overall layout of the gauges and dashboard I must say and the textures that were used. It certainly felt like a well-put-together interior, although it did lack soft touch points in many of the places where the outgoing Malibu had them, such as the upper dashboard. But hey, let’s face it: How often are you really even going to touch or take a nap or something on your dashboard anyways??? Back to the overall layout, the rear seat had A/C vents and two USB outlets next to a 115-volt household outlet, and the revised MyLink infotainment system functions even more smoothly than older versions, and now features a built-in Wi-Fi 4G LTE hotspot that can connect up to roughly six devices I believe. You’ve also probably heard of the “Teen Driving” feature, that can keep a tab on how often a certain speed limit was exceeded, whether or not the safety features such as the blind-spot monitoring system or forward collision alert and emergency braking were used and how often, mute the radio if seat belts aren’t buckled, and more. It’s a cool feature, although it’s definitely one I would find annoying if I was back in high school and still considered a new driver by my parents. In addition to all this, nearly all other modern tech features such as a panoramic sunroof, smart key access, a back-up camera with rear cross-traffic alert, Bluetooth streaming audio, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatibility, and nine Bose premium speakers (although I found the base speakers to be plenty loud enough for non-audiophiles) are all available on multiple trim levels. Much of that and leather seats can all be had for around $30,000 on the 1LT model, but oddly not on the 2LT (likely to give people some incentive to purchase the Premier model). Regardless, the 2016 Malibu welcomes you to the future!

Other Aspects

On paper, cargo capacity in the 2016 Malibu is right on par with other cars in the midsize class, and honestly, in person it seems better in my opinion. Interior storage is nice and should suffice, the trunk was surprisingly large, and visibility outward was good. Interestingly, I noticed that there are no fog lights available on any trim level. I hope this omission is changed in the future, or at least made available as a dealer accessory. Another major dynamic I took note of was the car's steering feel. It felt artificially heavy to me, despite this new 2016 Malibu having an electric power steering system just like past versions of the car. This is likely to give the Malibu more of a “sporty”, hydraulic steering-style feel, but the overall dynamics and feel reminded me of the steering on my 2008 Saturn Aura XE 3.5. Now that’s not meant to knock Chevy’s effort! Because the Aura is a fine driving car. IN FACT, it was praised when it was in production for its driving dynamics! I enjoy driving my Aura, and similarly, I enjoyed my time in the new 2016 Malibu. I should note, however, that there are no paddle shifters available or “driver selectable modes” or anything like that (such as Sport mode, Touring mode, etc.). But you do have the option to shift manually with a toggle on the shifter. Overall, I must say: I’m impressed!

Conclusion

A revised gauge cluster puts more information at your command in the 2016 Malibu. Note the auto stop area on the RPM cluster. That feature helps the Malibu achieve its 37 MPG rating.

The 2016 Malibu's panoramic sunroof provides sunlight for days,
and is much larger than the older Malibu's sunroof.

So what have we learned today?  Does Chevy’s Malibu finally have what it takes in its 2016 form to be a top dog in the segment it competes in? Honestly, I say in a few different ways: SURE. It’s finally got its styling game on point, driving dynamics are certainly more… well, dynamic than past versions of the Malibu, and the amount of available technology in it is sure to wow some of your non-tech savvy friends and family. No, it’s still no major sports sedan, and unlike the commercials on TV, I doubt anyone who’s even a little car savvy will confuse a Malibu with a Lexus or BMW (the grille gives it away). But it’s a fantastic improvement over past Malibus, and THAT’S what matters. The previous eighth generation Malibu can likely be found at decent prices on used car lots, and still offers respectable value for the money. Also remember that the 2016 Malibu Limited is on sale alongside the new one. Styling on both Malibus is all Chevrolet all day, although I find the front on both the 2014-2016 older Malibu and even the front on the new 2016 takes some getting used to. But at least the ninth gen 2016 Malibu looks like it was designed by ONE design studio, however, unlike the eighth gen Malibu. So if it were my money and I was in the market for a new midsized car from GM, I would be looking at a moderately equipped 1LT 2016 Chevy Malibu over the older models. Or if you really want to get fancy, you can go for a Malibu Premier and get all of the tech features your heart desires on it. Beware however: The price can run up quickly on those top-end models. Either way, Chevy wants you to meet your new ‘Bu, and this time they PROMISE: They’re for really real.

In the left picture, the new 2016 Malibu and 1997-2005 Malibu/Malibu Classic sit side by side, and on the right, the new Malibu and 2008-2012 Malibu together. Its interesting to note changes in lines cars over time. I see quite a few of the 2008-2012's design cues in the front of the 2016 Malibu.

Welp, that's a wrap for this review! Until next time: Take care everyone, and ROLL ON READERS!

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Grading (2013-2016 Malibu & Malibu Limited; LT 2.5 4-Cylinder)

• Engine Power/Economy: B (7.5 points)
• Quietness: A- (9 points)
• Interior Quality/Comfort: B (7.5 points)
• Driving Dynamics: B (7.5 points)
• Cargo Capacity: B (7 points)

Overall: 38.5/50 (C+)

Other Specs

• Engines Available: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (197 horsepower with stop/start technology), 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (259 horsepower), 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (182 horsepower, paired to a battery-powered electric motor; 2013 Eco only)
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Fuel Economy Ratings: 25 city/36 highway (2.5), 21 city/30 highway (2.0), 25 city/37 highway (Eco)
• Model Pricing (2016 Limited): $23,440 (LS) - $29,295 (LTZ)
• Trim Levels (2016 Limited): LS, LT, LTZ
• Available/Standard Safety Systems: Anti-Lock Brakes, Stability Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward-Collision Warning, Rear-View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Various Airbags (Front, Side, Rear Seat Side, Curtain, Knees), Advanced Brake Assist, OnStar

Crash Test Results: IIHS 2016 Top Safety Pick+ (Malibu Limited)

• IIHS Offset: Good
• IIHS Small Overlap: Good
• IIHS Side: Good
• Roof Strength: Good
• Head Restraints & Seats: Good
• Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 5 Stars  Frontal Passenger- 4 Stars   Front Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rear Side Crash- 5 Stars   Rollover: 4 Stars

Grading (2016 Redesigned Malibu; 1LT 1.5-liter 4-cylinder)

• Engine Power/Economy: A (10 points)
• Quietness: A (10 points)
• Interior Quality/Comfort: B (7 points)
• Driving Dynamics: B+ (8 points)
• Cargo Capacity: A- (9 points)

Overall: 44/50 (B+)

Other Specs:

• Engines Available: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (163 horsepower with stop/start technology), 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (250 horsepower), 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine (gas and electric power; 182 horsepower)
• Transmissions: 6-speed automatic (1.5), 8-speed automatic (2.0), CVT (Hybrid)
• Fuel Economy Ratings: 27 city/37 highway (1.5), 22 city/33 highway (2.0), 48 city/45 highway (Hybrid)
• Model Pricing: $22,500 (L) - $31,795 (Premier); $28,645 (Hybrid)
• Trim Levels: L, LS, 1LT, 2LT, Premier, Hybrid
• Available/Standard Safety Systems: Anti-Lock Brakes, Stability Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Active Forward-Collision Warning/w Automatic Braking and Pedestrian Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear-View Camera, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning w/Lane Keep Assist, Various Airbags (Front, Side, Rear Seat Side, Curtain, Knees), Advanced Brake Assist, Teen Driver Mode, Semi-Automatic Parking Assist, IntelliBeam automatic high-beam headlights, OnStar

Crash Test Results:

• IIHS Offset: Good
• IIHS Side: Good
• Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 5 Stars  Frontal Passenger- 4 Stars   Front Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rear Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rollover: 4 Stars

Key Competitors: All vehicles in the midsized car segment; Includes the Chrysler 200, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat, Subaru Legacy, & Nissan Altima

On the Adam's Autos "Should You Buy It?" scale of "Drool, Cool, Meh, or Bleh": Its "Meh" (2013 to 2016 Malibu & Malibu Limited; Thus, Lease It or Rent It); Its "Cool" (2016 Redesigned Malibu; Thus, Lease It or Buy It)

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