We all at some time in our lives need to learn from the past and fix our mistakes to improve and give a better effort than before. For the Chevrolet Malibu that is certainly the case as the previous models have been a huge disappointment to the Chevrolet leadership due to bland styling, a small backseat and a hybrid option that should have been left in the design phase. The addition of a new front and upgraded interior features did not improve the results for the Malibu that has unfortunately become an also ran of the mid-sized sedan segment.
Back at the drawing board to create the 2016 model, which was revealed in January at the Detroit Auto Show, the Malibu has wheels that were moved to the edge of the wheel wells and an overall sleeker design. Heading to a “bigger is better” philosophy, Chevrolet increased the overall size of the Malibu by 2.3 inches and gave it a longer wheelbase by 3.6 inches to help address the backseat problem and give the car a roomy rear seating that will be comfortable and enticing even for taller passengers.
The new Malibu will feature a new base engine, the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder which replaces the 2.5-liter of the past. this new engine will generate 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque along with being mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The fuel numbers are expected to show up at 27 city/37 hwy mpg for this engine. The upgraded engine shows up as a 2.0-liter turbocharged 250 horsepower 258 lb.-ft. of torque that bring in an eight-speed automatic and gives a fuel efficiency of 22 city/32 hwy.
The hybrid options, which was another problem from before is going to take a page from the Volt book and show up as a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This power team will be able to work on only electric power up to 55 mph and give a fuel mileage above 45 mpg for the car. The Malibu will be different from the Volt in that it will not be a plug in hybrid model, but this fuel efficiency will now answer the question and dispel the problems with having a hybrid Malibu from before.
The new design of the Malibu will take advantage of new sheetmetal body parts to give the car a 300 pound reduction in weight that helps improve the performance and fuel efficiency of the car. With five trim levels to choose from the Malibu gains a redesign inside and out and offers these trims, the base L, LS, LT, Hybrid and Premier. The Premier replaced the LTZ and is full of awesome luxury-style features inside the car.
Learning from the past will certainly make the Malibu a car that many will choose and desire with its brand new look and overall improvement in fuel mileage and performance. This new model for 2016 may be just the family sedan you are looking for and can purchase at your Chevrolet dealership.
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