Over the past few years, one of the sedans that we have loved the most does come with two glaring negatives. The first being a lack of overall style to the exterior of the car and the send the lack of space in the rear seat. Is it possible the Malibu could become a goner because of these two issues? A car that is made for whole family to ride in and enjoy heading out for groceries as much as going on vacation certainly needs more space in the back, and with the entire market in what seems to be a fashion contest of style just might leave the Malibu behind.
Thankfully the 2016 version of the Malibu has addressed both of these glaring issues in order to bring in a more stylish car that offers plenty of legroom for up to a tall adult to sit in the back and feel comfortable. Because of these changes that were needed, Chevrolet has made some impressive changes to the Malibu to make it a segment leader once again.
From the engine design the Malibu stands tall. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is attached to the eight-speed automatic transmission makes for a smooth powertrain that is extremely efficient. With some help form the Volt team the Malibu Hybrid offering can give you a fuel number that reaches 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. This is good news if you do a lot of city driving; knowing you are not relegated to the small and unimpressive city dwelling cars that feel cramped and confined. This hybrid system is a 1.8-iter four-cylinder engine with a two-motor drive unit to give you 182 horsepower and the fuel efficiency you need to enjoy filling up the gas tank less often.
In the category the Malibu competes in it has one knockout blow the others can’t touch; the built in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that comes from the OnStar system. This allows up to seven devices to stay connected so everyone can enjoy the ride. There is also a Teen Driver feature on this car to allow you to set limits for your teenage driver and receive alerts when the car reaches over speed limits you set or the seat belts aren’t being worn.
With a range of prices that starts at $22,000 and tops out at $36,000 you can find the Malibu that fits your budget and needs along this wide range. In a class that continues to be full of the cars we have known for many generations the new Malibu addresses the concerns we have had in the past and gives us a stylish midsized sedan with lots of legroom in the back and the connectivity we want. Not to mention the awesome fuel mileage that comes from the powertrains offered to allow you to have the car you want for commuting, family outings or just cruising around listening to music and spending some time by yourself. Make the Malibu the new car you buy this year; it is the midsized sedan you want.
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