I had this exact car. The Pearl paint and all. The engine with the turbo was amazingly quick and at 50 if you floor it your doing 90 in no time, as it put your head back in the head rest both at speed and off the line. Leather interior was beautiful and comfortable. The trunk was above average in size. The Pioneer Sound system in mine was excellent, as it had great sound. The only two con issues was the Stereo had power to burn but had a volume limiter on it and the rear seats had small leg room.
Your reviews, compared to the other ones I've seen, particularly on this vehicle, are top notch, sir! Very detailed, yet concise, Enthusiastic and unbiased. Thank you!
Tom, I have to say you give the BEST reviews I've seen. You're very clear in your presentations, the car shots are always beautiful (even if the car isn't), the neighborhoods you pick are lovely, and you are totally unbiased. I always enjoy watching.
I don't know why everyone is so quick to hate the malibu . I think chevy did a great job and an Even better job with the 2014 . It's beautiful inside and out. I can't wait till fall to purchase my 2014 ltz turbo .
Before everyone starts hating on any car please make sure that you know your facts and you have driven the car...I am.tired of all these broad statements from people who like their imports. And nice review
Hows the sound system? Can it get really loud with good bass? No one ever comments about the sound system when doing car reviews and that's a huge thing for music buffs like me.
The Bose sound systems in Chevys are solidly above average. Bose "tiers" their systems, so the ones found in Cadillac are generally better than the ones found in Chevys. Bose uses the same approach for other manufacturers. I generally don't spend much time with sound systems because they change depending on trim level and it confuses some buyers. I will occasionally say something specific if the system is especially great. For instance, when Lincoln had THX branded systems I gave them a huge thumbs up. Some of the best factory systems I ever heard in a production car. FWIW, I have done a fair amount of recording studio stuff over the years, I used to write soundtracks for documentaries and ads.
Actually, closer to 33K since I said $32,900. You know that Chevy dropped the price on Malibu, don't you? It happened just as I was evaluating it. Other reviews may have the higher price. Yes, my review is different. I don't regurgitate other reviews, I form my own opinions. I don't think Malibu has been given the credit it deserves. There are faults (the back seat is on the small side among other things) but there are redeeming qualities too. Just like any other car.
BEAUTIFUL! Another well done car. The 2013 looks GREAT but the 2014 is Breath taking. Finally GM gets their sh*t in gear! For years they made lack luster cars but now they are making A-1 cars. WAY TO GO
I like how this same car with the same license plate number was reviewed by everydayman as 34k and this guy said it was 32k. Plus what a huge difference in review opinions.
It isn't as bad as you're making it out to be honestly. With the exception of the back seat and the price, it's pretty midpack in all areas. It accelerates about the same as the Hyundai/Kia turbo twins and a V6 Passat, it outgrips and outbrakes them both and the Honda Accord V6 according to C&D at least. It doesn't have any feel or involvement but that isn't the same as bad handling. And observed mpg for the turbo is about par for the class as well.
Great job as usual!! Chevy I believe is doing a refresh to help fix that back seat room issue but thats all "hear say" But we all know they have to do something for one of their volume sellers.
I just bought my new 2014 Malibu LT last month. It is a good car to commute, very quite when driving. The new Auto stop future is cool, feel like a little bit german car style, but I don't think it is helpful for fuel consumption. Till now, the mpg is 20 combined, not what they said on window sticker 25/36. All others are good! The night environment interior light is epic and beautiful.
You should have outed for the 2014 Malibu LTZ, because you get a bit more bang, for your bulk. But considering it aren't much difference between an LT and LTZ trims, despite losing the LED tail lights and dual exhaust and more key features, you have chose an excellent choice.
Chevy is hard at work on an early-cycle refresh that will help the rear seat room. That is the cars biggest failing, however, if you don't haul adults around it probably isn't going to be an issue for you. This new Malibu does drive very well though, so if you can live with the rear seat you might find it very enjoyable.
Seems like a good effort on Chevy's part, but they definitely made a mistake in foregoing the paddle shifters. Honestly who wants to shift via a button/switch on the gear shifter?
This car is really nice .. I rented one at Christmas in Denver. It has one bad shortcoming thing I can't get around .. Front Wheel Drive. If this baby had rear wheel drive and the super charged V-8 or V-6 .. or turbo 4 .. It would be GREAT.
This was a good solid, honest review - unlike the one provided by the German car fanboy doosh (in the golf cap) over at everydayman. Credit was given where due, and the faults were noted.
GM IS FINALLLLLLY GROWING UP AFTER 1971....THIS IS 4 BANGER, WHO WOULD HAVE EVEN THOUGHT OF TURBO ON A CHEVELLE_MALIBU. NOPE IT'S WAS A WHOPPING 350CI(5.7L) THAT GOT 15MPG AND HAD AROUND 150HP. YES THEY HAD TORQUE (real tough make it BIG). This is a turbo 4 banger, 4 dr that will dust the 5.0 litre Mustangs from 1980(PROBABLY THE 70'S TOO...DON'T GET ME WRONG I HAVE GREAT RESPECT FOR THE 5.0L LX...it owned the streets and were dirt cheap) to the early 90's. I know tech has come a long way. Should GM be saying thanks Opel and Getrag!? The Cobalt/G5/Pursuit were the FIRST cars that the 'STREET' ever accepted(after 1971) and NOW again even quiver at seeing the SS emblem. TO GM WHO EVER DRIVES A Cobalt/G5/Pursuit WILL LOOK AT THING AS THEIR FIRST FAMILY RIDE....WELL DONE WHOM EVER...DESERVES IT, IF IT'S THE GERMAN'S OR AN AMERICAN OR WHOMEVER...FINALLY GETTING THINGS RIGHT...I'VE DRIVEN JAPANESE CARS SINCE HIGH SCHOOL. I STUMBLEB UP ON A GREAT DEAL IN a G5/PURSUIT. The German Drive Tran help sell it for me. Thanks...Riv
Well, "Evil Twin" was there when Tom went to a press release with the Eco version of the Chevy Malibu. superchan7, "Evil Twin" was there when he reviewed the Accord, but I called him "Lazy Twin". Tom's right -- Slacker...
Holy shit GM went in on the 2.0 huh that's some good numbers!!! I was wondering why I seem some with one exhaust and others with 2 and I knew neither had a v6 option that's nice
It does have a turbo 4-Did you read the title? Also most new cars are front wheel drive-have been for over20 years-except the mustang, camaro or challenger
I have one. Absolutely love it....BUT...one thing I absolutely don't like. The air comes on when it's cold and the heat comes on when it's warm. GM says they're baffled and the regional girl even went so far as to say that it may be normal. I'm liaising with a television show to help me with this. I've shut off the collision avoidance. A few things I would change.....The seats aren't nearly as comfortable as my 2010 LTZ, no back up audible like my Sierra, and no "one touch" memory recall for the seats. Also, the key fob won't recall seat position unless a set of values is input. BTW.... I blow the doors off my buddy's 69 302 and my friends Accord v-6....shows how far we've come.
The A/C comes on when it's cold outside because the system is trying to remove humidity from the cabin. There's a humidity sensor on the windshield next to the lane departure camera that commands A/C on at times even if the driver turns it off. As for the heat, if you're using auto HVAC control, it'll do that. The programming is wonky.
The 2.0L turbo in the Sonata and Optima puts out 274hp and 33mpg hwy. I think that's best horsepower and economy in class. As for the Fusion, I say don't be lured in by the good looks. Every single one of these new Fords are having major quality problems. Engines leaking oil, electronics not working, body parts not fitting properly, ball joints failing, trans problems. AVOID.
I would rather have a V6 with start stop technology and ability to turn off either two cylinders or a bank of cylinders. The cost of turbo repair is just too high, and the V6 engines are smoother. In the long run the V6 will actually have a better fuel economy.
The 2.0L Turbo has more HP and Torque than Fusion and most others in the class, does it not? Fuel economy comes largely down to the driver and conditions, but considering this engine IS right at the top of its class, it's not very surprising if it has slightly lower MPG. That said, I may still end up with a 2.0L Fusion over the 2.0L 'Bu. Not sure yet >
I could never find myself in a Z24 with a 3.1L 'UNDERTUNED' V6 AT 130-140BHP. The 'STREET' NEVER accepted the Cavalier and Sunbird/Sunfire unless you count a chick with a Garfield stuck to her window.. Sorry, guys/gals I've been waiting for GM to put vehicles out that I would buy myself. They still come with issues for sure: quality in areas, drop the donkey cart ass end and spend the dollars on an independent rear suspension (even if you drive at 7 to 8/10th or you really push it, IT MAKES a HUGE difference and those that love driving KNOW what I am talking about) but I hope they stay on the CORRECT PATH. Hell my bargain priced 2006 Pursuit/5 2.2L 5Spd has lots of add ons...SO TIME FOR A LITTLE FUN...:) and I'm using the 5-speed VERY CLOSE PATTERN Getrag (The Italian Made F23 - All sources show, and they also tell me everywhere the trans will take 250BHP) SO, I'VE GOT ABOUT 100BHP ROOM OR HELL ONE OF THE FIRST PURSUIT/G5 SS' HHHMMMM :) ...out4now...Riv
It will be interesting to see the refreshed version of this car that is due by next year. It should take on some of the Impala styling as have a "larger" back seat. We shall see. But I personally do not like the rear end and the interior is too swanky. They need to be able to make something look good without using all the chrome and fake wood.
I just bought 1 black ltz with 19" wheels and 2.0t that bitch is very surprising how quick it is it will do 0-60 in 6.3 sec if you know what you are doing and will run 14.8 in the quarter with an amateur driver:)
This car is a styling anomaly. Sometimes it looks great. But then other times it looks too tall with too short a wheelbase. The trunk situation is awkward as well
I really like this new Malibu, especially the interior. It's stylish with a distinctly American flair. My only complaint, which is a big one, is that it has less power and worse fuel economy than its competitors. The engineering just isn't there, apparently. I'd still buy a Malibu over a new Fusion though. Those cars are sexy garbage.
I don't see this car. I may see the platform they share, but it's still not the same car. It seems this car will be sold here, so maybe my wish will come true.
The Verano Turbo is the fastest of those when stock and brand new, since its the lightest. Check the weight, in order of lightness i think its : Verano, ATS, Regal and Malibu.
You didn't mention the lack of vents in the back. It's like they took the Camaro challenge too seriously, this car should be a 2-door sedan lol Nice review otherwise.
I had this exact car. The Pearl paint and all. The engine with the turbo was amazingly quick and at 50 if you floor it your doing 90 in no time, as it put your head back in the head rest both at speed and off the line. Leather interior was beautiful and comfortable. The trunk was above average in size. The Pioneer Sound system in mine was excellent, as it had great sound. The only two con issues was the Stereo had power to burn but had a volume limiter on it and the rear seats had small leg room.
Your reviews, compared to the other ones I've seen, particularly on this vehicle, are top notch, sir! Very detailed, yet concise, Enthusiastic and unbiased. Thank you!
Х
Tom, I have to say you give the BEST reviews I've seen. You're very clear in your presentations, the car shots are always beautiful (even if the car isn't), the neighborhoods you pick are lovely, and you are totally unbiased. I always enjoy watching.
I don't know why everyone is so quick to hate the malibu . I think chevy did a great job and an Even better job with the 2014 . It's beautiful inside and out. I can't wait till fall to purchase my 2014 ltz turbo .
Not a home run but nice to see Chevy put so much attention and care into a car!
Before everyone starts hating on any car please make sure that you know your facts and you have driven the car...I am.tired of all these broad statements from people who like their imports. And nice review
Hows the sound system? Can it get really loud with good bass? No one ever comments about the sound system when doing car reviews and that's a huge thing for music buffs like me.
The Bose sound systems in Chevys are solidly above average. Bose "tiers" their systems, so the ones found in Cadillac are generally better than the ones found in Chevys. Bose uses the same approach for other manufacturers.
I generally don't spend much time with sound systems because they change depending on trim level and it confuses some buyers. I will occasionally say something specific if the system is especially great. For instance, when Lincoln had THX branded systems I gave them a huge thumbs up. Some of the best factory systems I ever heard in a production car. FWIW, I have done a fair amount of recording studio stuff over the years, I used to write soundtracks for documentaries and ads.
Thanks for the info!
Stunnedstudios I owned one and it has Amazing loud clear Good Bass
Actually, closer to 33K since I said $32,900.
You know that Chevy dropped the price on Malibu, don't you? It happened just as I was evaluating it. Other reviews may have the higher price.
Yes, my review is different. I don't regurgitate other reviews, I form my own opinions. I don't think Malibu has been given the credit it deserves. There are faults (the back seat is on the small side among other things) but there are redeeming qualities too. Just like any other car.
i gotta say, chevy made a good looking car this time. good on them, the more competitive market, the better!
You guys should put the YEAR of the car model on the TITLE of the video!
BEAUTIFUL! Another well done car. The 2013 looks GREAT but the 2014 is Breath taking. Finally GM gets their sh*t in gear! For years they made lack luster cars but now they are making A-1 cars. WAY TO GO
I priced a a non LTZ version with the turbo on truecar with leather and a safety package and it was in the mid 20's. Sounds like a much better value.
I absolutely love this car!
I like how this same car with the same license plate number was reviewed by everydayman as 34k and this guy said it was 32k. Plus what a huge difference in review opinions.
You know this a old video when Gangnam style is on the radio lol
Ah, you're paying attention.
I am pleasantly surprised. Didn't expect something so good.
Okay I’m seeing different ones, are they push to start or key ?
Out of the other generation mal's I have seen this is the sharpest looking one
It isn't as bad as you're making it out to be honestly. With the exception of the back seat and the price, it's pretty midpack in all areas. It accelerates about the same as the Hyundai/Kia turbo twins and a V6 Passat, it outgrips and outbrakes them both and the Honda Accord V6 according to C&D at least. It doesn't have any feel or involvement but that isn't the same as bad handling. And observed mpg for the turbo is about par for the class as well.
Meanwhile in Aussieland, they get a 260+ hp V6..... No turbo issues later on, just reliable and simple.
I hate the US sometimes.
Great job as usual!! Chevy I believe is doing a refresh to help fix that back seat room issue but thats all "hear say" But we all know they have to do something for one of their volume sellers.
I have a 2014 LS with the 2.5L, the only real con is the sound system for me.
I just bought my new 2014 Malibu LT last month. It is a good car to commute, very quite when driving. The new Auto stop future is cool, feel like a little bit german car style, but I don't think it is helpful for fuel consumption. Till now, the mpg is 20 combined, not what they said on window sticker 25/36. All others are good! The night environment interior light is epic and beautiful.
You should have outed for the 2014 Malibu LTZ, because you get a bit more bang, for your bulk. But considering it aren't much difference between an LT and LTZ trims, despite losing the LED tail lights and dual exhaust and more key features, you have chose an excellent choice.
Chevy is hard at work on an early-cycle refresh that will help the rear seat room. That is the cars biggest failing, however, if you don't haul adults around it probably isn't going to be an issue for you. This new Malibu does drive very well though, so if you can live with the rear seat you might find it very enjoyable.
Seems like a good effort on Chevy's part, but they definitely made a mistake in foregoing the paddle shifters. Honestly who wants to shift via a button/switch on the gear shifter?
Yes it is.
This car is really nice .. I rented one at Christmas in Denver. It has one bad shortcoming thing I can't get around .. Front Wheel Drive. If this baby had rear wheel drive and the super charged V-8 or V-6 .. or turbo 4 .. It would be GREAT.
This was a good solid, honest review - unlike the one provided by the German car fanboy doosh (in the golf cap) over at everydayman. Credit was given where due, and the faults were noted.
everyone has their own opinions. what some may like, some hate etc etc.
GM IS FINALLLLLLY GROWING UP AFTER 1971....THIS IS 4 BANGER, WHO WOULD HAVE EVEN THOUGHT OF TURBO ON A CHEVELLE_MALIBU. NOPE IT'S WAS A WHOPPING 350CI(5.7L) THAT GOT 15MPG AND HAD AROUND 150HP. YES THEY HAD TORQUE (real tough make it BIG). This is a turbo 4 banger, 4 dr that will dust the 5.0 litre Mustangs from 1980(PROBABLY THE 70'S TOO...DON'T GET ME WRONG I HAVE GREAT RESPECT FOR THE 5.0L LX...it owned the streets and were dirt cheap) to the early 90's. I know tech has come a long way. Should GM be saying thanks Opel and Getrag!? The Cobalt/G5/Pursuit were the FIRST cars that the 'STREET' ever accepted(after 1971) and NOW again even quiver at seeing the SS emblem. TO GM WHO EVER DRIVES A Cobalt/G5/Pursuit WILL LOOK AT THING AS THEIR FIRST FAMILY RIDE....WELL DONE WHOM EVER...DESERVES IT, IF IT'S THE GERMAN'S OR AN AMERICAN OR WHOMEVER...FINALLY GETTING THINGS RIGHT...I'VE DRIVEN JAPANESE CARS SINCE HIGH SCHOOL. I STUMBLEB UP ON A GREAT DEAL IN a G5/PURSUIT. The German Drive Tran help sell it for me.
Thanks...Riv
Love the trunk test :D
Well, "Evil Twin" was there when Tom went to a press release with the Eco version of the Chevy Malibu. superchan7, "Evil Twin" was there when he reviewed the Accord, but I called him "Lazy Twin". Tom's right -- Slacker...
Yup. Slacker.
He gave some great advice about test driving at least three different cars i wish i did lol but i love my car
the frontend of the malibu looks great, shame they are getting rid of it so soon
I agree
I wouldn't mind seeing this car on the roads where I live (Europe).
That guy was looking for paddle shifters on a 4 cylinder
Holy shit GM went in on the 2.0 huh that's some good numbers!!! I was wondering why I seem some with one exhaust and others with 2 and I knew neither had a v6 option that's nice
Top performances + change
It does have a turbo 4-Did you read the title? Also most new cars are front wheel drive-have been for over20 years-except the mustang, camaro or challenger
btw,the 2014 does have a stupid little red turbo badge.They messed up
Really nice report thanks
Super !! white interior and a lot of electronics is nothing superfluous only those quality machines manufactured in Korea!
I love this car!
Wait for the Chevy SS, 4 door, rear wheel drive,and the 6.2 V8 from the 'Vette :)
I have one. Absolutely love it....BUT...one thing I absolutely don't like. The air comes on when it's cold and the heat comes on when it's warm. GM says they're baffled and the regional girl even went so far as to say that it may be normal. I'm liaising with a television show to help me with this. I've shut off the collision avoidance. A few things I would change.....The seats aren't nearly as comfortable as my 2010 LTZ, no back up audible like my Sierra, and no "one touch" memory recall for the seats. Also, the key fob won't recall seat position unless a set of values is input. BTW.... I blow the doors off my buddy's 69 302 and my friends Accord v-6....shows how far we've come.
That's nice
The A/C comes on when it's cold outside because the system is trying to remove humidity from the cabin. There's a humidity sensor on the windshield next to the lane departure camera that commands A/C on at times even if the driver turns it off.
As for the heat, if you're using auto HVAC control, it'll do that. The programming is wonky.
what a fantastic looking car.... it looks better than the eco model.
tom, i really enjoyed your inspiring music choice.
The 2.0L turbo in the Sonata and Optima puts out 274hp and 33mpg hwy. I think that's best horsepower and economy in class. As for the Fusion, I say don't be lured in by the good looks. Every single one of these new Fords are having major quality problems. Engines leaking oil, electronics not working, body parts not fitting properly, ball joints failing, trans problems. AVOID.
When are they going to offer some colors other than gray black and white?
Well done dude, good review
My buddy got a ford flex. Nothing but problems. And he's a ford fan boy
I would rather have a V6 with start stop technology and ability to turn off either two cylinders or a bank of cylinders. The cost of turbo repair is just too high, and the V6 engines are smoother. In the long run the V6 will actually have a better fuel economy.
The 2.0L Turbo has more HP and Torque than Fusion and most others in the class, does it not? Fuel economy comes largely down to the driver and conditions, but considering this engine IS right at the top of its class, it's not very surprising if it has slightly lower MPG. That said, I may still end up with a 2.0L Fusion over the 2.0L 'Bu. Not sure yet >
I could never find myself in a Z24 with a 3.1L 'UNDERTUNED' V6 AT 130-140BHP. The 'STREET' NEVER accepted the Cavalier and Sunbird/Sunfire unless you count a chick with a Garfield stuck to her window.. Sorry, guys/gals I've been waiting for GM to put vehicles out that I would buy myself. They still come with issues for sure: quality in areas, drop the donkey cart ass end and spend the dollars on an independent rear suspension (even if you drive at 7 to 8/10th or you really push it, IT MAKES a HUGE difference and those that love driving KNOW what I am talking about) but I hope they stay on the CORRECT PATH. Hell my bargain priced 2006 Pursuit/5 2.2L 5Spd has lots of add ons...SO TIME FOR A LITTLE FUN...:) and I'm using the 5-speed VERY CLOSE PATTERN Getrag (The Italian Made F23 - All sources show, and they also tell me everywhere the trans will take 250BHP) SO, I'VE GOT ABOUT 100BHP ROOM OR HELL ONE OF THE FIRST PURSUIT/G5 SS' HHHMMMM :) ...out4now...Riv
It will be interesting to see the refreshed version of this car that is due by next year. It should take on some of the Impala styling as have a "larger" back seat. We shall see. But I personally do not like the rear end and the interior is too swanky. They need to be able to make something look good without using all the chrome and fake wood.
Wait...the side mirrors don't fold in?
I love my Epica 2 5
Excellent review as always
I just bought 1 black ltz with 19" wheels and 2.0t that bitch is very surprising how quick it is it will do 0-60 in 6.3 sec if you know what you are doing and will run 14.8 in the quarter with an amateur driver:)
Great review!
nice 2013 chevrolet malibu turbo ltz loud
Don't listen to the trolls, Tom! I have been watching your reviews for a long time now, informative and entertaining. Keep it up!
Luxury quiet cant beat that.
I'm definitely liking the sportier look with the new model. Haha Gangnam Style...god I hate that song.
the malibus a nice little car,its too bad the trunk didnt fit our needs :(
This car is a styling anomaly. Sometimes it looks great. But then other times it looks too tall with too short a wheelbase. The trunk situation is awkward as well
Chevy really messed up with back seat room. I heard they are gonna redesign the car to address this issue next year.
Are you going to review the 2014 Malibu?
Can you make a review of the Audi Q7?
Yep, always focused.
Anyway I just thought it was a strange omission.
very good review
why is there a tunnel hump if it's a fwd?
Tom! Still waiting for a 2013 toyota venza review!
I dont know why people get the base models why not get the turbo or ltz and get the full effect of the car
Kinda reminds me of the Chevy cruiz 2015 .
Balanced review
Super nice review, just wondering why did you do purchase so many toilet paper everytime~~LOL
I really like this new Malibu, especially the interior. It's stylish with a distinctly American flair. My only complaint, which is a big one, is that it has less power and worse fuel economy than its competitors. The engineering just isn't there, apparently. I'd still buy a Malibu over a new Fusion though. Those cars are sexy garbage.
Ah the Bu got a turbo huh .. Nice!
nice looking car
This seems like a review for Buick Verano Turbo also. Haha
Ist sad...... the german version doesnt has the blue ambient lights :(
That’s not true
I don't see this car. I may see the platform they share, but it's still not the same car. It seems this car will be sold here, so maybe my wish will come true.
Why were you driving in deep mud?
Evil Twin ditched work again?
yay this is coming to nz!!!
So what's better/quicker from GM. Regal Turbo or Malibu Turbo? Hmmmmm?
The Verano Turbo is the fastest of those when stock and brand new, since its the lightest. Check the weight, in order of lightness i think its : Verano, ATS, Regal and Malibu.
Ya ya tengo el mio y es muy cómodo y elegante
Lo amo !
You didn't mention the lack of vents in the back. It's like they took the Camaro challenge too seriously, this car should be a 2-door sedan lol Nice review otherwise.
Vou comprar um
Well. . . They are in the business of selling cars. . . .
Hahahaha your super funny in that sarcastic way!!
City mpg seems really poor
I think I'm going to get one:)
Put a Diesel engine and am sold
In Europe it was also sold as diesel
Fwd or Rwd ?
Good car, but geez they are expensive. Used for me. Money goes a LOT farther.
Nice car but I don't like the LED tail lights. Just does not mAch the car.