Since the Great GM Meltdown, I’ve been watching for evidence that the passion for cars has returned to GM and its brands, especially Chevrolet. The all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, along with other home-run hits for Chevrolet recently, makes a strong case that these cars are genuine Chevrolet – and have the right to wear the Chevrolet Bowtie.
This new “Eco” is a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment. It’s also the first of a new breed of “mild hybrids” for 2013 – cars that have some of the mechanical benefits of a full hybrid to increase fuel economy, but lower sticker prices than a full-fledged hybrid. It gets a respectable 37-mpg – enabling a range of 580 miles with a full tank.
Chevrolet needs this car to be a sales winner – it’s their first global midsize sedan and will be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. Pricing starts at $25,995, including a $760 destination charge.
The exterior of the Eco – and all Malibu models – has a coupe-like silhouette and carries design cues from Camaro to bring a sporty sensibility to the family sedan segment.
A wide stance, broad shoulders, a powerdome hood and an integrated rear spoiler bring a new athleticism to Malibu and give it a more aggressive, planted and sporty appearance. These design cues also include Chevrolet’s dual-port grille, large swept-back projector HID headlamps, larger Chevrolet bowtie badges front and rear, Camaro-style tail lamps and a single hidden exhaust outlet. The look is complemented by standard 17-inch alloy wheels and low-rolling-resistance Goodyear tires.
The inside of this Chevy is all-new. It’s roomier, more comfortable and upscale (it could pass for a Buick), and is much quieter than the previous Malibu. It features an all-new dual cockpit design, and its three inches wider than the previous Malibu.
The interior features metallic, chrome or wood accents located around the shifter, surrounding the center stack, around the instrument cluster and on doors and the steering wheel. Soft, ice blue ambient lighting reflects off of and complements chrome accents and ensures even, consistent illumination along the instrument panel. Ice blue lighting on the center stack dials, exposed ice blue French contrast stitching, soft-touch and textured surfaces, and strategic applications of noise-deadening materials add to Malibu’s interior refinement. Seats are sport-sculpted and bolstered with firmer foam and frames made of high-strength steel for long-distance comfort and durability.
Chevrolet’s new MyLink infotainment package and OnStar are standard on the Malibu Eco. They build on the safety and security of OnStar and seamlessly integrate online services like Pandora internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio. MyLink integrates wireless connectivity through Bluetooth to enable hands-free use of selected smart phone apps while the device remains safely stowed.
Malibu Eco’s eAssist system is mated to an Ecotec 2.4L direct-injection four-cylinder engine and next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. The 2.4L engine is efficient and lightweight, featuring dual-overhead cams, direct injection, continuously variable intake and exhaust timing and electronic throttle control, as well as a lightweight aluminum cylinder block and cylinder head. It is rated at an estimated 182-hp.
Along with the Ecotec 2.4L and six-speed transmission, the eAssist system uses power stored in the air-cooled, lithium-ion battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. An advanced 115V lithium-ion battery and 15-kW motor-generator unit help increase fuel economy through regenerative braking, using electricity instead of gasoline when stopped, and fuel-cut off during deceleration.
All of this adds up to package that is very well put together. On the road, it drives much better than I expected – having been engineered to deliver ride and handling that are very good and on par with more expensive sports sedans. Rivals include Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and the Ford Fusion. For more information, see your local Chevrolet dealer or visit Chevrolet.com