When auto journalists elected the new Chevrolet Malibu as the 2008 North American Car of the Year, I have to admit I was somewhat surprised. Of course, I had yet to take it for a spin, which might explain my slight puzzlement.
However, my perception changed as soon as I got to spend some quality time with the new Malibu. This sedan marks a giant step forward for General Motors and it probably deserves all the accolades and awards won by the automaker.
Malibu style
The new Chevy Malibu definitely has a better look to match its personality. Even though the rear-end treatment is not on par with the rest of the package, the styling is bold and classy, with a couple of fancy touches like chrome accents which further enhance its character.
This phenomenal rebirth of American styling can also be appreciated inside, where fit and finish is impeccable. The Malibu now imposes itself with a more distinctive appearance that does a better job of reflecting its ambitions. In case you didn't know, the competition in the midsize sedan market is extremely fierce and models have to go the extra mile to stand out from the mass.
At the same time, GM did everything it could to make the Malibu more functional than ever. Sure, my tester was the top-of-the-line LTZ model, with plenty of features not even included in the base model, but the list is still very impressive. A few key additions to the dashboard, like the comprehensive onboard computer, allow the driver to know what's going on with just quick glance.
I should also mention the comfort provided by the front seats, the user-friendliness of the power adjustments (ideal to find a good driving position) and the remarkable quietness inside. The atmosphere as a whole is more than satisfying for a touring sedan.
However, my perception changed as soon as I got to spend some quality time with the new Malibu. This sedan marks a giant step forward for General Motors and it probably deserves all the accolades and awards won by the automaker.
Malibu style
The new Chevy Malibu definitely has a better look to match its personality. Even though the rear-end treatment is not on par with the rest of the package, the styling is bold and classy, with a couple of fancy touches like chrome accents which further enhance its character.
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| The new Chevy Malibu definitely has a better look to match its personality. |
This phenomenal rebirth of American styling can also be appreciated inside, where fit and finish is impeccable. The Malibu now imposes itself with a more distinctive appearance that does a better job of reflecting its ambitions. In case you didn't know, the competition in the midsize sedan market is extremely fierce and models have to go the extra mile to stand out from the mass.
At the same time, GM did everything it could to make the Malibu more functional than ever. Sure, my tester was the top-of-the-line LTZ model, with plenty of features not even included in the base model, but the list is still very impressive. A few key additions to the dashboard, like the comprehensive onboard computer, allow the driver to know what's going on with just quick glance.
I should also mention the comfort provided by the front seats, the user-friendliness of the power adjustments (ideal to find a good driving position) and the remarkable quietness inside. The atmosphere as a whole is more than satisfying for a touring sedan.
 |
| GM did everything it could to make the Malibu more functional than ever. |