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2004 Chevrolet Malibu: Frequently Asked Questions
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| Make mine Malibu |
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| Updated |
Mar 17, 2005 19:41:50 |
| Rating |
 16 ( -2 -12.5% ) | | 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.
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.
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
---Story by Sue Mead
---Photos courtesy of Chevrolet
© 2003, Sue Mead, All Rights Reserved. |
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