The 2009 Malibu continues to earn the accolades of earlier models for strong engine performance, a responsive ride, roomy and comfortable cabin, high crash test scores, and solid build quality.
And the 2009 version offers several new and mostly positive changes. First off, the six-speed automatic transmission has been made more widely available with the four-cylinder engine, further improving both performance and fuel mileage. The four-cylinder has also been made the standard engine on the top-of-the-line LTZ model, instead of the V6.
In addition, Bluetooth connectivity is a now available as an option and stability control has become standard for all models. The only negative is the removal of power-adjustable pedals.
The midsize sedan comes in five trim levels: LS, LT1, LT2, LTZ and Hybrid.
Even the base LS model is well equipped, with standard features including full power accessories, air conditioning, 17 inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, OnStar,
The LT1 trim adds a chrome exhaust outlet, color-keyed side moldings and side mirrors, steering-wheel audio controls and carpeted floor mats.
The LT2 adds remote engine start, heated front seats, power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and polished wheels.
The top-level Malibu LTZ adds 18 inch alloy wheels, silver grille inserts (instead of black), LED taillights, foglamps, an upgraded eight-speaker audio system with a CD changer, leather upholstery and a power passenger seat.
All Malibu models are equipped with a standard 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque. LS and LT1 trims are matched to a four-speed automatic transmission.
The LT2 and LTZ trims mate the four-cylinder with a six-speed automatic with manual shift control, while the six-speed automatic is an option on the LT1.
For those looking for more power, the LT2 and LTZ models also offer a 3.6 liter V6 engine that delivers 252 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque and is coupled with the six-speed automatic.
The four-cylinder Malibu goes from 0 to 60 mph in under 10 seconds, a very respectable number for a car this size with a four-cylinder. The V6 runs the sprint in an impressive 6.6 seconds.
EPA gas mileage for the four-cylinder, six-speed automatic Malibu is 22 mpg city and 32 mpg on the highway. The V6 gets 17 mpg city and 26 highway.
Standard safety features on all Malibus include antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, stability control, and traction control.
In government crash tests, the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu earned five out of five stars in both frontal and and side-impacts.
While the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid has the winning style, driving dynamics and comfort of the regular Malibu, it isn't actually a "true" hybrid in the way we would normally expect.
Unlike most hybrids, the Malibu's electric motor can't really propel the car on its own past 3 mph (most hybrids can use their electric motors alone to around 25 - 30 mph). The Malibu's electric engine is used primarily to start the engine when it automatically shuts off to save fuel at traffic lights and other stops.
Since the electric motor isn't used as often as in most hybrid cars, the gas savings are less. EPA gas mileage ratings for the Hybrid are 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
(Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Chevy Prices:
Chevy's sales have been on the weak side historically for close to the past two years now, right along with the other car brands and evidence of a continuing slow economy.
They've recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with intense dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down some great deals.
Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.
How To Buy A New Malibu At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Chevy Malibu, here's a technique that will show you the best way to buy one at the lowest price, especially given the current slow economic environment.)
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