The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a true competitor in the midsize sedan segment, with a starting price of just over $21,000. This sedan has won numerous awards since its introduction in 2008, including North American Car of the Year and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick.
The Chevy Malibu receives numerous changes for 2012. The LS Uplevel Package now includes body-side molding, floor mats, steering wheel audio controls, and a compact spare tire and jack assembly. Also, the Sunroof and Convenience Package for 1LT model now includes powertilt/ sliding sunroof, power six-way driver's seat, and remote start among others. A new exterior color called Crystal Red Tintcoat is now available, although it costs extra.
There is a choice of two completely different engines for the 2012 Malibu: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder Ecotec engine, as well as a 3.6 -liter V-6. The 2.4-liter engine may only produce 160-horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, but that’s not what it's made for. Its strong suit is fuel economy, as it delivers 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The 3.6-liter V-6 on the other hand is made as a power option, producing 252-horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. For a starting price of just over $21,000, you're getting a lot of features, as well as a decent looking car.
The Range
Body Style: Sedan
Engines: 2.4L I-4, 3.6L V-6
Transmissions: six-speed automatic
Models: LS, LT, LTZ
What's New
The 2012 Malibu receives numerous additions for 2012. The LS Uplevel Package receives body-side molding, Bluetooth phone connectivity, floor mats, steering wheel audio controls, and compact spare tire and jack assembly. The LT model's Sunroof and Convenience Package receives a power tilt/sliding sunroof, power six-way driving seat, and remote start among others. The Sunroof Package for the 2LT model includes power/tilt sliding sunroof, premium floor mats, and trunk mat. An additional exterior color has been added for 2012; Crystal Red Tintcoat. There are also two new equipment groups; 3LT and 2LZ.
Exterior
The Malibu features clean lines, as well as a strong stance. The sedan is subtly aggressive, with features such as fog lights, dual exhaust pipes, and a rear profile with noticeable hints of Corvette design added.
Interior
The interior of the Malibu works well with its exterior, as it is equipped with premium materials. Also featured is a Chevrolet-signature dual cockpit design with backlit blue gauges, and your choice between metallic or wood grain accents. There are numerous different models offered, each one containing something different. For example the base Malibu, the LS, is equipped with Sirius Satellite Radio, OnStar, and cruise control, to name a few.
Performance & Handling
For a midsize sedan, the Malibu handles itself quite well. It's big engine, a 3.6-liter V-6, produces 252-horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. In order to give this sedan optimal handling, Chevrolet equipped it with a hydraulic-assisted steering system.
Safety
As a family vehicle, Chevy new it had to make this sedan with safety as a top priority. It is equipped with a total of six airbags, along with three-point lap and shoulder belts, which include belt pretensioners. The vehicle is made of high-strength steel that helps protect passengers, and is equipped with cross-car beams that provide protection in side-impact accidents.
EPA Fuel Economy
LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1LTZ (2.4L): 22 mpg city/ 33 mpg highway
3LT, 2LTZ (3.6L): 17 mpg city/ 26 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Great value
- Handling
- Exterior styling
You Won't Like
- Standard four-cylinder
- Rear-seat space
Sum Up
Good-looking car with all the amenities
If You Like This Vehicle
- Toyota Camry
- Ford Fusion
- Hyundai Sonata
- Honda Accord