In designing the mid-size Epsilon architecture, GM engineers knew it had to provide an excellent base for some very expensive upscale cars, so they shot for that high standard and achieved it, as the various Saab 9-3 models attest.
A residual benefit to this thinking was that less expensive cars on the Epsilon architecture would be extremely well served, and the excellent dynamics of the Opel Vectra, the Pontiac G6, and the Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx proved that to be true.
So Chevrolet's decision to create performance versions of its Malibu and Maxx models is a lot more than a marketing initiative. Before we get to the new models, however, a few words on the different philosophies and shapes of the two models.
The Malibu is a classic four-door, mid-size sedan and delivers all of the functionality that implies -- room for four adults and their luggage in a well thought out and well-equipped package.
The Maxx is a whole other deal, since it is 13 mm shorter than the Malibu but sits on a wheelbase that is 152 mm longer. Most of the extra wheelbase translates in wider rear doors and more room in the second row of seats, which also recline, and the hatchback shape delivers more storage space for luggage.
Maxx's values may not jump out at you here on the internet, but they will in the dealership. So if you've been thinking a regular sedan may not have the versatility you need and are maybe considering something larger, you should check out a Chevrolet Malibu Maxx.
This would be an especially smart idea if you wait until the SS models appear this fall as 2006 models, delivering the same functionality but more performance and value as well, and who's not up for that?
But before we get to speculating on the value of the upcoming models, a few words on their performance, courtesy of Brent Dewar, a Canadian who recently went from being general manager of Chevrolet to vice-president of marketing and advertising for General Motors of North America.
''The SS name has always represented performance for mainstream customers,'' says Dewar, ''and these new products deliver it with uncompromising sedan versatility and value. In other words, it is guilt-free fun.''
The fun of the Malibu and Maxx SS models undoubtedly begins with the 3900 V-6 that creates 240-hp at 5,800 rpm and 245 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm, though 90 percent of that torque is on tap from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm.
This engine is a production variant of GM Powertrain's new 60-degree V-6
OHV engine family, which Dewar says is ''designed to deliver smoothness and quality while balancing strong performance and economy.''
The large displacement of the 3900 V-6 is achieved with 99-mm offset bores and an 84-mm stroke and combines with torque-enhancing technologies such as active air intake to produce a broad, flat torque curve that ''translates into exceptional all-around performance and terrific off-the-line launch feel.''
A residual benefit to this thinking was that less expensive cars on the Epsilon architecture would be extremely well served, and the excellent dynamics of the Opel Vectra, the Pontiac G6, and the Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx proved that to be true.
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| (photo: General Motors) |
The Malibu is a classic four-door, mid-size sedan and delivers all of the functionality that implies -- room for four adults and their luggage in a well thought out and well-equipped package.
The Maxx is a whole other deal, since it is 13 mm shorter than the Malibu but sits on a wheelbase that is 152 mm longer. Most of the extra wheelbase translates in wider rear doors and more room in the second row of seats, which also recline, and the hatchback shape delivers more storage space for luggage.
Maxx's values may not jump out at you here on the internet, but they will in the dealership. So if you've been thinking a regular sedan may not have the versatility you need and are maybe considering something larger, you should check out a Chevrolet Malibu Maxx.
 |
| (photo: General Motors) |
But before we get to speculating on the value of the upcoming models, a few words on their performance, courtesy of Brent Dewar, a Canadian who recently went from being general manager of Chevrolet to vice-president of marketing and advertising for General Motors of North America.
''The SS name has always represented performance for mainstream customers,'' says Dewar, ''and these new products deliver it with uncompromising sedan versatility and value. In other words, it is guilt-free fun.''
The fun of the Malibu and Maxx SS models undoubtedly begins with the 3900 V-6 that creates 240-hp at 5,800 rpm and 245 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm, though 90 percent of that torque is on tap from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm.
This engine is a production variant of GM Powertrain's new 60-degree V-6
 |
| (photo: General Motors) |
The large displacement of the 3900 V-6 is achieved with 99-mm offset bores and an 84-mm stroke and combines with torque-enhancing technologies such as active air intake to produce a broad, flat torque curve that ''translates into exceptional all-around performance and terrific off-the-line launch feel.''