The 2004 Chevy Malibu is not a gorgeous car, but its exterior appearance is vastly improved from its Tupperware-bland predecessor. The new Malibu has more character and class than the 2003 model. It also appears to be more substantive, giving the impression it is a more expensive car than it is. Indeed, it is slightly wider than the model it replaces.The back end of the Malibu sedan resembles the upright rears of European cars. The European touch should not be a surprise since the Malibu's underbody is shared with its German and Swedish cousins, the Opel Vectra, and the Saab 9-3.
The front features a chrome bar across the full-width of the car, with the familiar Chevy bowtie in gold in the center. The bar along with the headlamp shape are attempts to create a family resemblance with the Chevrolet trucks, which have been so successful in the marketplace. The translation doesn't work as well on smaller cars. It appears as if Chevy designers are still trying to come up with a consistent car and truck styling theme. Next Page