- 2009
2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says
The Malibu Hybrid has many of the winning attributes of its gas-engine model-mate, including a comfortable ride with reasonable power and pleasing looks. But its not the best option for those concerned with fuel efficiency.
Early reviews of the 2008 Chevy Malibu Hybrid appear to be on the fence on the car's value. Although it's a cheaper option than most hybrid vehicles and its driving dynamics are generally smoother, auto experts find the Malibu Hybrid is not as fuel efficient as other hybrid models -- only achieving an estimated 24/32 mpg city/highway compared to the Toyota Camry Hybrid's 33/34 city/highway. Plus it's harder to get; currently, the Malibu Hybrid is only sold in eleven markets scattered around the Northeast and West Coast.
Many reviewers suggest you save money and select a conventional Chevrolet Malibu if you like the hybrid model's style and performance. If you like the idea of hybrid technology, consider the high-ranking 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid or the recently released 2009 Camry Hybrid.
- "The style will turn few heads, but it is handsome enough; the interior is attractive and generally comfortable for four and it is a winner in the market place; which is all that matters if you are GM." -- Marketwatch
- "A Toyota Camry Hybrid would get better even mileage…but the Toyota's base price is about $1000 more than the Malibu Hybrid's." -- Automobile Magazine
- "The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, while very inexpensive, doesn't get much value from its hybrid system, and its cabin tech is only a little better than average." -- CNET
- "A smoother powertrain makes for a nice Malibu but still not a great hybrid." -- Car and Driver
Malibu-Hybrid Performance - NA
Some say the 2008 Chevy Malibu Hybrid doesn't offer as much fuel efficiency as its moniker and mechanics imply. On the other hand, many report the driving experience is more similar to a gas engine sedan. Automobile Magazine says unlike the Camry Hybrid, "the Malibu's engine doesn't turn off in coasting situations," and later notes, "With better steering and a slightly tighter suspension setup, the Malibu is more fun to drive than its most obvious competitor." Read More
Malibu-Hybrid Exterior - NA
Like its conventional model mate, early reviews appreciate the 2008 Malibu Hybrid's exterior styling. Read More
Malibu-Hybrid Interior - NA
Auto writers say Chevy has stepped it up a notch with the Malibu Hybrid's cabin quality, but not enough to effectively compare in a competitive midsize class. Read More
Malibu-Hybrid Safety - NA
The 2008 Malibu Hybrid does well in federal government crash tests, earning five stars in front and side impact crashes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not specifically tested the Malibu Hybrid, but gives the conventional Malibu the highest possible rating, "Good," in both frontal offset and side impact crash tests. Read More
Malibu-Hybrid Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Malibu Hybrid comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile basic limited warranty and a five-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More
