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2004 Chevrolet Malibu
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| Make mine Malibu |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:47:11 |
| Rating |
 25 ( -6 -24% ) | | Author | Sue Mead |
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Description:
2004 Chevy Malibu
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2004 Chevy Malibu. The 2004 Malibu departs in appearance from the previous generation Chevy sedan.
2004 Chevy Malibu. The grille is split horizontally by a chrome bar, a styling feature also seen on several new Chevrolet pickups.
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2004 Chevy Malibu. Both engines are backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2004 Chevy Malibu. LS models enjoy aluminum 15s and LTs run 16-in. alloy wheels with sportier P215/60R15 tires.
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Essex, Vermont: It's hard to choose whether the Green Mountain State is more beautiful in the summer, when it's easy to see how it earned its name, or in the fall, when it's practically synonymous with fall foliage and "leaf peeping". Then again, this New England state is not bad looking wearing its winter-wonderland clothing. But wait, there's always the delightful newness of spring, with orchards of apple blossoms…..so many choices!
It's somewhat the same when it comes to choosing an entry-level, mid-sized sedan. Today, this sweet spot in the car market representing sales of close to 3.5 million, has many redesigned faces-each a little different, but each appealing in its own way. Most offer overall good performance and almost all have the modern safety features of many higher-priced models. And, each new or upgraded version to come to the party brings something fun along with for the ride.
The bowtie division of the world's largest automaker recently brought a small group of auto scribes to northern Vermont to sample the sights of summer and motor through the verdant countryside in its redesigned Chevy Malibu. There's a whole lots riding on this new model that will come to market starting at $18, 995, or $295 more than the previous version. The General has invested some $750 million to develop the new Malibu, which recently rolled off the assembly line at GM's redesigned Fairfax Plant in Kansas City, Kansas. Its previous version, the 2003 model that will now be called the Chevy Classic and sold for the rental car market only, was rated the most reliable mainstream mid-sized car in America.
A pretty hefty accolade to ignore! But, oh so many choices! Especially when you consider the success of the Toyota Camry, the Honda Accord and the Nissan Altima, as GM does. But, the good news is that the newest Malibu is built on the same chassis as the Saab 9-3 and the Opel Vectra, with underpinnings that promise to be far better than the model it replaces. And, even better news is that it comes in a sporty hatchback version dubbed the Malibu Maxx, due out in early winter. That's the fun part, although it was available in to look at in a prototype version only at this time.
Contemporary styling
The 2004 Malibu departs in appearance from the previous generation Chevy sedan. While the stance is slightly wider, the main difference is the more pronounced front end on the new vehicle. Large, crystalline-like headlamps sit high and slant back into the fenders and hood. The grille is split horizontally by a chrome bar, a styling feature also seen on several new Chevrolet pickups. Heading toward the rear, the contours suggest good aerodynamics, and the trunk sports an available spoiler. Stepping back from the '04 Malibu also allows the driver to experience another factory-installed goody: the optional remote vehicle starter with a range of about 200 feet.
Both 4- and 6-cylinders available
That remote control ignites either a 2.2-liter inline-4 or the larger 3.5-liter V6. The 4-banger is GM's global Ecotec mill and produces 145-hp. and 155-lb.-ft. of torque, while the horsepower and torque ratings of the six are 200 and 220-lb.-ft., respectively. Base Malibus are equipped with the smaller 2.2-liter engine, while higher trim LS and LT models come standard with the V6. Both engines are backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
Rigid foundation
Underneath the new Malibu sits the newly developed Epsilon platform that also structures the Saab 9-3 and Opel Vectra. The new architecture was designed to increase stiffness, enhance handling, and extinguish interior noise. Also lessening racket are several barriers, including a foam-rubber shield on the dash board, a noise reducing plate in the dash, a composite hood insulator, and carpet floor modules. All corners are suspended independently, with MacPherson struts in front and a four-link setup in the rear. Front disc and rear drum brakes are standard, with LS and LT trim models supported by ABS, traction control, and Dynamic Rear Proportioning. These electronic features are optional on base Malibus, which get 15-in. steel wheels. LS models enjoy aluminum 15s and LTs run 16-in. alloy wheels with sportier P215/60R15 tires. The rubber navigates corners or changes lanes thanks to electric power rack-and-pinion steering with variable-speed assist, a standard innovation across the lineup.
Interior pleasantries
Several features on the inside of the new Malibu improve the experience for each passenger. For the solo, cargo-carrying traveler, the front passenger seat can be folded flat while the rear bench splits 60/40. All Malibu drivers welcome a power seat-height adjuster, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. Higher end LS and LT versions get standard adjustable pedals and lumbar support; base models can be optioned with these, as well. Better airflow to the south end of the cabin accommodates rear-seat passengers, as both foot outlets and dash-mounted center vents modify the climate with the backseat in mind. LS and LT models are equipped with a roof-mounted console providing reading lights for all passengers and incorporating technology to perform electronic functions, such as opening garage doors. Heated seats and OnStar are available.
Sound systems vary, with the base model using an AM/FM radio and CD player. A fancier stereo employs a 6-disc in-dash changer with XM radio capability. To encourage XM use, GM allows customers with GMAC financing to include the monthly subscription charge in their payment plans. The radio display also communicates driver information such as possible ice formation and remaining oil life.
Safety for the family
Dual-stage frontal airbags, three-point belts at all seats, and front seatbelt pretensioners equip all 2004 Malibus. Even more cushioned protection can be secured if the head curtain side-impact airbags are chosen. All rear seat positions feature the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system to firmly ground child-seats and their occupants.
Malibu Drive
The best thing about the new model is its suspension and overall ride comfort, while least impressive is its steering feel. Malibu handled well on the uneven and winding two lanes of Vermont, along with a few forays onto dirt roads. While steering improves at higher speeds, it is slightly vague with slower motivation. Recommended are the V-6 models and an upgrade to ABS brakes. Up-level cabins are quiet and attractive, with good ergonomics.
The Maxx
Also new to the Malibu lineup will be a larger, hatchback option-the Malibu Maxx. Due out in December, the more sporty Maxx starts at $22, 295 has been designed for "activity-minded" buyers and will have many upgrades over the sedan including 4-wheel disc brakes, more aggressive suspension and steering tuning and six inches more length.
GM plans on building some 200,000 Malibus for the new model year (65 percent sedan/35 percent Maxx) and hopes to sell 90-percent to retail customers. The remaining units would be included in fleet sales. New 2004 Malibus will appear in show rooms early fall of 2003.
2004 Chevy Malibu Reviewer's Notes
Base price: $18,995
Engine: 2.2-liter inline-4 (145 hp @5,600 rpm, 155 lb.-ft. @4,000 rpm) or 3.5-liter V6 (200 hp @5,400 rpm, 220 lb.-ft. @3,200 rpm)
Transmission: 4-speed automatic with overdrive
Wheelbase: 106.3 in.
Length: 188.3 in.
Width: 69.9 in.
Height: 57.5 in.
Head/hip/legroom: front: 39.6/53.2/41.9 in.; rear: 37.6/52.4/38.5 in.
Curb weight, lbs.: 3174-3315
Fuel economy: inline-4: 23 city/ 33 highway/ 27 combined; V6: 22 city/ 30 highway/ 25 combined
Safety equipment: Dual-stage frontal airbags; optional head curtain side-impact airbags; front seatbelt pre-tensioning; three-point safety belts for all passengers; front disc and rear drum brakes with ABS; traction control
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is the Malibu built and how many does GM expect to sell?
GM builds the Malibu at its Fairfax Plant in Kansas City, Kansas, and hopes to sell between 180,000 and 200,000 Malibus for '04, with 65 percent sedan and 35 percent Maxx.
Who buys the Malibu?
The average age of Malibu buyers is 50, but GM expects that the new Maxx will bring it down to the mid-40's. Some 55 percent of sedan buyers are female, while GM expects more males will be added to the mix with the Maxx. Todays
mid-sized sedan market is 3.7 million in the U.S.
How does it handle?
The best thing about the new model is its suspension and overall ride comfort, while least impressive is its steering feel. Malibu handled well on the uneven and winding two lanes of Vermont, along with a few forays onto dirt roads. While steering improves at higher speeds, it is slightly vague with slower motivation. Recommended are the V-6 models and an upgrade to ABS brakes. Up-level cabins are quiet and attractive, with good ergonomics.
What engines does it come with?
The new Malibu comes with either a 2.2-liter inline-4 or the larger 3.5-liter V6. The 4-cylinder is GM's global Ecotec mill and produces 145-hp. and 155-lb.-ft. of torque, while the horsepower and torque ratings of the six are 200 and 220-lb.-ft., respectively. Base Malibus are equipped with the smaller 2.2-liter engine, while higher trim LS and LT models come standard with the V6. Both engines are backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
What is the pricing of the Malibu models?
The Chevy Classic, or current '03 model retails starting at $ 18, 700, while the new base starting price will be/$18, 995; LS versions at $20, 995; LT versions at $23 495; LS Maxx at $ 22,225; and LT Maxx versions at $24, 725.
---Story by Sue Mead
---Photos courtesy of Chevrolet
© 2003, Sue Mead, All Rights Reserved. |
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