When the all-new Chevrolet Malibu launched this year, it was available in only the Eco package. This meant that consumers could only purchase the 37 mpg highway eAssist-equipped model, with a $25,995 starting price.
As the summer approaches, however, buyers will have two fresh engine options to choose from in the Malibu as it introduces a pair of all-new powertrains. First is the 2.5L Ecotec engine, which has been rated at an SAE-certified 197 horsepower (147 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. of torque (259 Nm). Chevy claims it’s the most powerful naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine in the segment, but hasn’t announced a fuel economy rating just yet. Regardless, the 2.5L will be the base engine for the new ‘Bu, and is expected to shave a couple grand off the car’s base price, making the all-new midsized sedan more accessible.
For those interested in a peppier drive should be on the lookout for the Malibu’s all-new 2.0L Ecotec turbo offering, which is SAE-certified at 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm). Chevy has also stated that peak torque is sustained from just 1,700 rpm and will hold all the way to 5,500 rpm. In addition, the power boost will give the new ‘Bu Turbo a 0-60 time of just 6.3 seconds. The perfect addition to an award-winning global architecture that helps deliver a more confident, responsive and connected driving experience. The body structure itself is 20-percent stiffer for a greater feeling of solidity, quietness and quality. This engine will become available in the fall season.
First introduced in 1964 as a special package on the Chevy Chevelle, the Malibu name has grown to be one of the brand’s best selling vehicles. And the 2013 Malibu is Chevrolet’s first global mid-size sedan, as it will eventually be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. It is already on sale in South Korea and China, with sales to begin this year in more than 70 additional countries, including Canada, throughout Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Africa and other Asia-Pacific markets.
Inside, the 2013 Malibu delivers on space, offering an additional1.5 inches (38 mm) more front shoulder room, 3.5 inches (89 mm) more rear shoulder room, 2.7 inches (68 mm) more front hip room, 2.8 inches (71 mm) more rear hip room, and over 1 cubic foot (28 liters) more trunk space. Altogether, it combines to be an additional 4 cubic feet (113 liters) of additional EPA interior volume compared to the outgoing model.
Malibu’s driving experience is also enhanced with Chevrolet MyLink, an all-new in-car infotainment package that gives customers a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options while building on the safety and security of OnStar. MyLink is safe and easy to use. It adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles. MyLink is standard in LT, LTZ and Eco Malibu models, along with a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch screen display that makes media selection easy to navigate. The radio face also swivels up to reveal a hidden and illuminated storage area.
