Το ευρωπαικό Chevrolet Malibu 2013

Η Chevrolet είχε παρουσιάσει την ευρωπαϊκή έκδοση του Malibu στην έκθεση της Φρανκφούρτης τον Σεπτέμβριο του 2011 και τώρα, έδωσε τα πλήρη τεχνικά του χαρακτηριστικά. Το Malibu ήρθε για πρώτη φορά στην Ευρώπη και μηχανικά είναι διαθέσιμο με 2 κινητήρες έναν 2,4-λίτρων βενζίνης και έναν 2,0-λιτρο πετρελαίου απόδοσης 160 και 167 ίππων αντίστοιχα, οι οποίοι συνδυάζονται με 6-τάχυτο μηχανικό και 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο. Στη χώρα μας θα είναι διαθέσιμο από τα τέλη του 2012.

Το αυτοκίνητο έχει διαστάσεις 4.865 mm μήκος, 1.855 πλάτος, 1.465 mm ύψος με 545 λίτρα χώρο αποσκευών. Ο 2,4-λίτρων κινητήρας αποδίδει 167 άλογα με 225 Nm ροπής με τα 0-100 χλμ/ώρα να τα κάνει σε 9,5 δευτερόλεπτα (10.2 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο) με τελική ταχύτητα 204 χλμ ώρα (206 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο). Έχει μέση κατανάλωση 7,8 λίτρα (8,0 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο) και εκπέμπει 184 γρ/χλμ CO2, 188 γρ/χλμ με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο.

Με τον 2,0-λιτρο πετρελαιοκινητήρα με τα 160 άλογα και τα 350 Nm ροπής, τα 0-100 χλμ/ώρα να τα κάνει σε 9,8 δευτερόλεπτα (9.7 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο) με τελική ταχύτητα 213 χλμ ώρα (210 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο). Έχει μέση κατανάλωση 5,1 λίτρα (6,3 με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο) και εκπέμπει 134 γρ/χλμ CO2, 167 γρ/χλμ με το 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο

Η μπροστά ανάρτηση είναι με γόνατα McPherson και η πίσω με πολλαπλούς συνδέσμους. Στον βασικό εξοπλισμό μεταξύ άλλων συναντάμε ESP, traction control, 6 αερόσακους, ηλεκτρικό χειρόφρενο και Hill-start Assist. Περισσότερες λεπτομέρειες μπορείς να βρεις στο δελτίο τύπου που ακολουθεί.

[Πηγή: Chevrolet]

[learn_more caption=”Δελτίο Τύπου”]

Chevrolet Malibu brings iconic American design to world markets

• Design optimized for aero efficiency and quiet interior
• Generous space and cargo capacity, advanced entertainment systems
• 2.4L gasoline engine comes with standard Hill-start Assist
• 2.0L diesel with 160 hp is among most powerful engines in displacement class
• Malibu engineered and tuned to offer smooth, safe ride

The Chevrolet Malibu is the auto industry’s longest-running midsize nameplate, launched in 1964. From hot rod to police cruiser to convertible to America’s main street midsize sedan, few midsize cars have appealed to so many, for so long. The new Malibu is Chevrolet’s first truly global midsize sedan and the first ever edition of the model to be launched in Europe.

“Malibu is Chevrolet’s new flagship for Europe and one of ten new entries launched in just 18 months,” said Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe. “It is a great-looking car that offers customers unique American style, refinement and five-star safety.”

Typical buyers of a midsize sedan look for quality, reliability and durability in a car. With Malibu, customers are set to get a lot of car for the money. They will appreciate its expressive design, the various comfort features as well as the refined handling characteristics it delivers.

A considerable number of customers in the segment are businesses which equip their fleets with midsized sedans. Due to strong buyer preferences, the majority of Malibus sold in Europe will be equipped with a diesel engine.

Every Malibu in Europe will come with a three-year/100,000 kilometers comprehensive warranty, a six-year anti-corrosion warranty and one-year emergency roadside assistance.

Powerful and fast silhouette

Thanks to a wheelbase of 2,737 mm and an overall width of 1,855 mm, the Chevrolet Malibu has a well-planted, athletic stance. Its front appearance is dominated by the Chevrolet dual-port grille sporting the centrally aligned bowtie, and a hood design featuring a powerdome. The swept back halogen or xenon headlamps add an assertive look to the car’s face.

A distinctive bodyline that runs along the entire length of the vehicle, strong rear shoulders and bold Camaro-inspired tail lamps are further features that define the Malibu’s exterior. Its alloy wheels are 17 or 18 inches in size and fill their housings with a tight wheel-to-body fit.

Malibu’s sleek lines are matched by its aerodynamic efficiency. An integrated decklid spoiler with LED-illuminated Center High Mount Stop Light helps separate the airstream from the rear of the car. The Malibu has also been insulated thoroughly against wind, engine noise and vibration.

Inside, the Malibu exudes an ambiance of comfort and refinement. It features Chevrolet’s signature dual cockpit and an integrated center stack that accommodates a seven-inch full-color touch screen (up-level trims).

The mid-level instrument panel flows naturally into the doors while the casings of the two instrument gauges resemble those in the Camaro. Light pipe technology is used in various locations in the cockpit to produce Chevrolet’s ambient ice-blue backlighting. This includes the black, molded-in-color decorative band with a chrome accent which runs across the entire length of the instrument panel.

Space, seats, entertainment options

Even tall passengers will feel at ease in the Malibu with 991 mm of head room (rear: 952 mm), 1,069 mm of leg room (rear: 946 mm), and 1,461 mm of shoulder room (rear: 1,450 mm). The trunk has a capacity of 545 liters; the cargo area can be expanded by split-folding (60/40) the rear seatbacks.

Among the smart storage highlights, standard on higher level trims, is a cavity that is hidden behind the shiftable seven-inch touch screen. Each of the door pockets can hold one-liter beverage bottles while the large glove box in the mid-instrument panel is ideal for storing a variety of personal items.

Malibu’s seats contribute significantly to the feeling of comfort and have benefited from extensive ride validations around the globe. Finding the ideal seating position is easy thanks to a tilt and telescoping steering wheel featured on upper level trims, and over 266 mm of seat travel and 60 mm of height adjustment.

Depending on the trim level, seat covers are of either jet black and titanium or all jet black in color. Up-level specifications have power assisted heated front seats with memory function and lumbar support and sport leather seating surfaces. Seats on mid-level specifications have ribbon fabric inserts whereas base-level trims are equipped with a full fabric seat with soft fabric inserts.

For the infotainment systems, too, there are three levels of equipment. On up-level trims, the radio with CD player is linked to a seven-inch full-color touch screen and premium nine-speaker system. The display has several uses, including optional navigation and photo viewer, and enables Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free operation of mobile phones, supported by voice recognition. Radios can be operated using controls mounted in the steering wheel.

The center console in up- and midlevel trims houses a USB port as well as an auxiliary input jack for plugging in iPods and other MP3 players.

Two strong and durable engines

In Europe, the Chevrolet Malibu can be ordered with either a gasoline or a diesel engine, both of which are four-cylinder units. The diesel engine is produced in Kaiserslautern, Germany, and features high-pressure common rail fuel injection, a dual overhead camshaft, and an advanced variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler.

It delivers a maximum power output of 160 hp at 4,000 rpm, 350 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm and takes the Malibu to a top speed of 213 km/h. When coupled with a manual transmission, the diesel unit requires 5.1 liters/100 km on a combined cycle.

The gasoline engine cranks out 167 hp at 5,800 rpm, enabling the car to attain a top speed of 204 km/h and 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds, when coupled to a manual transmission. Maximum torque is 225 Nm at an engine speed of 4,600 rpm. On a combined cycle, this engine consumes 7.8 liters/100 km.

A six-speed manual or automatic transmission can be mated to both the 2.4L gasoline and the 2.0L diesel engine. The six-speed automatic transmission features Driver Shift Control (DSC) which allows the driver to shift gears manually. Adaptive shift controls include automatic grade braking which commands the transmission to remain in a lower gear if the vehicle is decelerating or coasting on a downgrade.

Dynamic ride feel, confident handling

Out on the open road, drivers of the Malibu will appreciate the vehicle’s excellent dynamics. Crucial to the Malibu’s confident road command and its smooth ride are its broad track width (front: 1,583 mm; front/rear: 1,585 mm), a tight unibody design and proven McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspensions.

The Malibu is equipped with a ZF steering system and displays neutral steering characteristics and excellent road holding, even during very tight turns. All specifications will have rack-mounted Electric Power Steering, Hill-start Assist and will be equipped with an electronic parking brake. A rear parking sensor is standard on up-level trims and available on mid-level specifications. Moreover, mid- and up-level specifications will come with cruise control which is operated via the steering wheel buttons.

The Malibu’s 16-inch vented front discs and solid rear discs are framed by aluminum calipers and offer solid stopping power when required. Its comprehensive range of standard electronic chassis control systems includes: Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, a four-channel Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist and Brake Fade Assist.

Uncompromising safety

There is a lot more to the Malibu’s outstanding safety performance than its electronic aid systems. Its crash impact structure has been engineered to be highly rigid and incorporates flexible front and rear end crush zones that absorb the energy that is unleashed during a crash.

The fact that Malibu has earned a top five-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) proves that is among the safest cars in the segment to drive in.

All specifications in Europe will have six airbags, including dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, front seat-mounted chest/pelvis air bags, and roof rail air bags. The risk of the driver and occupants suffering whiplash injuries is reduced thanks to active headrests. A releasable pedal assembly is also standard. The front three-point seatbelts are equipped with pre-tensioners and load-limiters.

Child seats can be safely anchored to the two rear outboard positions using the proven Isofix installation system.

Key data

Vehicle length: 4,865 mm / width: 1,855 mm / height: 1,465 mm

Luggage capacity (L): 545

Figures for automatic transmission in brackets

* Preliminary data

Design and interior

Malibu blends athletic stance and aerodynamic efficiency

The Chevrolet Malibu produces a powerful yet sophisticated visual statement by matching athletic proportions with fluid, sculpted forms. Featuring a wheelbase of 2,737 mm and an overall width of 1,855 mm, the vehicle has a well-planted stance. This impression of stability is increased by the car’s large wheels.

A Chevrolet dual-port grille with the centrally aligned bowtie is among the Malibu’s key exterior features. It is split 30/70 between upper and lower ports and has chrome surrounds. The hood and its powerdome, meanwhile, evoke notions of performance and speed.

Large swept-back front lights accommodate halogen or xenon headlamps. The bezels carry a jeweled surfacing with the LED turn signals integrated into the lower edge of the headlights. Below, a set of fog lamps with chrome bezels reinforce the sense of visual balance inherent to the front of the Malibu.

A distinctive bodyline runs along the entire length of the vehicle, passing through the door handles and underscoring the strong forward-motion dynamic. The Malibu features defined, strong rear shoulders and bold four-element tail lamps that have been inspired by those seen in the Camaro.

The alloy wheels are 17 or 18 inches in size and fill their housings with a tight wheel-to-body fit. The Malibu’s looks are matched by its aerodynamic efficiency. Overall, engineers and designers spent some 400 hours in the wind tunnel. The raft of measures applied to enhance the Malibu’s aerodynamics included:

• rounded front corners – from the bottom of the fascia up through the headlamps – which help air flow smoothly along the Malibu’s body sides
• outside rearview mirrors that are specifically designed to deflect wind without disrupting the airflow
• an integrated decklid spoiler with LED-illuminated Center High Mount Stop Light. It incorporates a crisp, trailing edge that helps separate the airstream from the rear of the Malibu.

A total of nine exterior colors can be chosen from: Summit White, Ice Silver, Carbon Flash Metallic, Morello Red Metallic, Smokey Eye Grey Metallic, White Pearl Metallic, Daydream Beige Metallic, Placid Grey Metallic, and Poseidon Blue Mica.

Stylish and very quiet cabin

Inside the Malibu, designers created an ambiance of comfort and refinement. The integrated center stack dominates the Chevrolet signature dual cockpit and accommodates a full-color touch screen on up-level trims.

The mid-level instrument panel flows naturally into the doors. It includes a black, molded-in-color decorative band with a chrome accent that runs across the entire length of the panel and extends to the front outboard HVAC vents.

Behind the three-spoke steering wheel, an animated instrument cluster with two gauges makes for a glare-free, sports-oriented appearance. The casings of the two gauges bear some resemblance to those in the Camaro. Located in the center is a board computer which displays various data such as average vehicle speed, mileage, tire pressure, consumption etc.

The instrument cluster as well as several control knobs and storage areas are back-lit with Chevrolet ambient ice-blue illumination. Backlighting on the instrument panel with its decorative band and chrome accent, as well as in the doors, uses light pipe technology.

The Malibu’s aerodynamic shape and strategic application of noise-deadening materials in numerous locations have produced a car that is very quiet to drive in. A stiff body structure and an isolated engine cradle have been instrumental in helping engineers to reduce noise and vibration. Further measures taken to reduce noise include:

• triple-sealed doors
• windshield wipers that are lower positioned
• the strategic application of expanding-foam acoustic baffles in cavities throughout the body structure
• an acoustic laminated windshield and laser-brazed roof panels
• liquid-applied sound deadening and melt-on sound deadening materials
• a noise baffle barrier in the trunk to abate noise generated around the wheel housings
• fully sealed, acoustic perimeter water deflectors in all four doors

Comfortable seating and comprehensive entertainment options

Malibu’s seats are equally supportive and comfortable and consist of durometer foam and high strength steel frames. Compared with traditional seat structures, they provide additional rear knee and leg room and offer weight savings of around 10 percent.

Over 266 mm of seat travel and 60 mm of height adjustment mean that, in conjunction with the tilt and telescoping steering wheel on mid and up-level models, any driver will find his or her preferred seating position.

The upholstery is of either jet black and dark titanium or all jet black color.

Up-level specifications have power assisted heated front seats with memory function and lumbar support and sport leather seating surfaces. Seats on mid-level specifications have ribbon fabric inserts while base-level trims are equipped with a full fabric seat with soft fabric inserts.

When it comes to infotainment, there are again three levels of equipment. A radio with CD player that is connected to a seven-inch full-color touch screen and premium nine-speaker system is featured on up-level specifications. The screen has several uses, including optional navigation guidance and photo viewer, and enables Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free operation of mobile phones, supported by voice recognition.

The center console in up and midlevel trims houses a USB port as well as an auxiliary input jack for plugging in iPods and other MP3 players. Mid- and base-level specifications offer a stereo radio with CD player and six speakers.

Radios can be operated using controls mounted in the steering wheel.

Up-level models will come with a standard dual zone automatic air conditioning system with pollutant and odor filter.

Spacious interior dimensions

The cabin of the new Malibu offers even tall passengers ample space, an attribute that is particularly valuable on long-distance journeys. It provides 991 mm of head room (rear: 952 mm), 1,069 mm of leg room (rear: 946 mm), and 1,461 mm of shoulder room (rear: 1,450 mm).

With a luggage capacity of 545 liters, the Malibu also has plenty of storage room. Should this not suffice, the rear seatbacks can be split-folded (60/40) to accommodate additional cargo.

On up-level models, occupants can store their personal items in a cavity hidden behind the seven-inch touch screen radio display which articulates up and down. More belongings may be placed in the large, illuminated glove box, in the center console under the fold-down center armrest or in storage cubbies on either side next to it, and in the door map pockets which are capable of holding one-liter beverage bottles. Sunglasses can be placed in an overhead compartment.

Rear seat occupants will find an armrest with cupholders and further cubby storage for a variety of smaller items. Available Passive Entry, Passive Start (PEPS) allows drivers to keep the car key in their pocket when unlocking, locking and starting their vehicle. Inside the vehicle, a push-button start functionality obviates the need for the driver to insert and turn the key in order to run the engine.

Technology

Malibu’s engines deliver performance, longevity and durability

Buyers of the Chevrolet Malibu will have a choice of two engines: A 2.4L gasoline or 2.0L diesel unit, the latter of which is one of the industry’s most powerful offerings in its displacement class. Reflecting customer preferences in this segment, it is anticipated that the diesel engine will power the overwhelming majority – around 90 percent – of all Malibus sold in Europe.

Built in Kaiserslautern, Germany, the 2.0L diesel engine develops 160 hp at 4,000 rpm while providing maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,750 rpm. Key engine features include high-pressure common rail fuel injection (four valves per cylinder), a dual overhead camshaft, and an advanced variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler.

When coupled to a manual transmission, the diesel-powered Malibu is capable of hitting 100 km/h within 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 213 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.1 liters/100 km on a combined cycle, which translates into a carbon footprint of 134 g of CO₂ per km. The engine’s diesel particulate filter is maintenance-free for life.

The 2.4L gasoline engine, too, is known for its performance, reliability and low maintenance requirements. The four-cylinder, 16-valve unit incorporates light-weight aluminum cylinder heads and a chain-driven dual overhead camshaft with variable valve timing.

Performance data for the manual transmission variant includes 167 hp at 5,800 rpm, maximum torque of 225 Nm at 4,600 rpm and 0-100 acceleration of 9.5 seconds. On a combined cycle, the 2.4L gasoline engine requires 7.8 liters/100 km.

Virtually no routine engine maintenance is required other than changing the engine oil and the oil filter, replacing the air cleaner filter and the platinum-tipped spark plugs.

A six-speed manual or automatic transmission can be mated to both engines. On the manual transmission, all gears, including reverse, are synchronized. The six-speed automatic transmission, too, is available with both the gasoline and diesel equipped Malibu. It is an on-axis design and features Driver Shift Control (DSC) which allows the driver to shift gears manually. Adaptive shift controls include automatic grade braking which commands the transmission to remain in a lower gear if the vehicle is decelerating or coasting on a downgrade.

Smooth ride and balanced steering characteristics

Engineers working on the all-new Chevrolet Malibu clocked up one million miles (1.6 million km) of on-road development testing in about 22 months on six continents. Tuned on rural roads, highways and validation facilities around the world, the Malibu combines the confident, smooth feel of a premium sports sedan with well-balanced, effortless steering.

The Malibu’s configuration – a wheelbase of 2,737 mm and a front/rear track of 1,583 and 1,585 mm, respectively – as well as its tight body structure formed the sound basis from which engineers calibrated the vehicle’s handling characteristics. Proven and continuously refined McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspensions and an isolated engine cradle are further crucial elements that add to the car’s dynamic, upscale feel as well low noise, vibration and harshness.

A key enabler to Malibu’s refined ride and handling is its ZF steering system which provides smooth transitions and on-center feel. Even in tight turns, the car displays excellent road holding and remarkably neutral steering characteristics. Standard rack-mounted Electric Power Steering (EPS) helps conserve fuel.

Solid braking power comes from 16-inch vented front discs and solid rear discs which are framed by aluminum calipers. A range of electronic systems indiscernibly enhances the driver’s feeling of control. They include:

• Electronic Stability Control System with integrated yaw sensor, lateral accelerometer and a steering angle sensor
• Traction Control that provides traction by limiting wheel spin when one or both of the front drive wheels begin to lose traction
• four-channel Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control, Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist and Brake Assist. EBD proportions brake pressure whereas Cornering Brake Control kicks in to correct oversteer or understeer when the car is braking during cornering. Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist compensates for brake fade under repeated applications of heavy braking. In the event of an emergency braking situations, brake assist increases stopping power.
• Hill-start Assist – standard
• Rear parking sensor – standard on up-level specifications. The device uses triangulation to determine relative distance and notifies the driver acoustically of close objects.

Up and mid-level specifications of the Chevrolet Malibu will be equipped with cruise control which is operated via the steering wheel buttons. An electronic parking brake is standard on all vehicles. It is activated by pressing a button on the center console and automatically disengages when the accelerator is pressed.

Malibu provides outstanding safety

Occupant safety was an overriding objective in designing the Malibu and it ranks among the safest cars in its segment. In November 2011, experts from the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) awarded the Malibu their top mark, a five-star rating.

“The Malibu is one of five Chevrolet Models in our current range to have recently been awarded the highest European safety rating,” said Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe. “Its design, handling, comfort and safety make this car an attractive alternative in the European mid-size segment.”

Apart from its sophisticated electronic control system, Malibu has a highly solid crash impact structure, 65 percent of which is composed of high-strength steels for maximum protection in the event of a collision. Front and rear crush zones have been engineered to collapse in a controlled fashion to help absorb crash energy: The front sub-frame, the longitudinal members and the upper rails leading into the lower A-pillars create three load paths that channel the brunt of any front impact. The rear section has been designed to direct impact energy towards the lower C-pillars, wheel arches and the floor.

The Malibu will feature a total of six airbags which are deployed by the sensing diagnostic module, including dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, front seat-mounted chest/pelvis air bags, and roof rail air bags.

Active headrests for protection against whiplash injury, five three-point seatbelts, pre-tensioners and load-limiters on the two front seatbelts, and a releasable pedal assembly are also part of the car’s comprehensive set of standard safety features.

Child seats can be safely anchored to the two rear outboard positions using the proven Isofix installation system. Measures for pedestrian impact protection include providing adequate clearance for all hard points under the hood, and also the adoption of a ‘soft’ hood design, with wide openings in the inner skin to provide flexibility as well as stiffness.

Three-year warranty coverage for peace of mind

Every new Malibu in Europe will come with a three-year/100,000 kilometers comprehensive warranty, a six-year anti-corrosion warranty and one-year emergency roadside assistance.

Technology

Malibu’s engines deliver performance, longevity and durability

Buyers of the Chevrolet Malibu will have a choice of two engines: A 2.4L gasoline or 2.0L diesel unit, the latter of which is one of the industry’s most powerful offerings in its displacement class. Reflecting customer preferences in this segment, it is anticipated that the diesel engine will power the overwhelming majority – around 90 percent – of all Malibus sold in Europe.

Built in Kaiserslautern, Germany, the 2.0L diesel engine develops 160 hp at 4,000 rpm while providing maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,750 rpm. Key engine features include high-pressure common rail fuel injection (four valves per cylinder), a dual overhead camshaft, and an advanced variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler.

When coupled to a manual transmission, the diesel-powered Malibu is capable of hitting 100 km/h within 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 213 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.1 liters/100 km on a combined cycle, which translates into a carbon footprint of 134 g of CO₂ per km. The engine’s diesel particulate filter is maintenance-free for life.

The 2.4L gasoline engine, too, is known for its performance, reliability and low maintenance requirements. The four-cylinder, 16-valve unit incorporates light-weight aluminum cylinder heads and a chain-driven dual overhead camshaft with variable valve timing.

Performance data for the manual transmission variant includes 167 hp at 5,800 rpm, maximum torque of 225 Nm at 4,600 rpm and 0-100 acceleration of 9.5 seconds. On a combined cycle, the 2.4L gasoline engine requires 7.8 liters/100 km.

Virtually no routine engine maintenance is required other than changing the engine oil and the oil filter, replacing the air cleaner filter and the platinum-tipped spark plugs.

A six-speed manual or automatic transmission can be mated to both engines. On the manual transmission, all gears, including reverse, are synchronized. The six-speed automatic transmission, too, is available with both the gasoline and diesel equipped Malibu. It is an on-axis design and features Driver Shift Control (DSC) which allows the driver to shift gears manually. Adaptive shift controls include automatic grade braking which commands the transmission to remain in a lower gear if the vehicle is decelerating or coasting on a downgrade.

Smooth ride and balanced steering characteristics

Engineers working on the all-new Chevrolet Malibu clocked up one million miles (1.6 million km) of on-road development testing in about 22 months on six continents. Tuned on rural roads, highways and validation facilities around the world, the Malibu combines the confident, smooth feel of a premium sports sedan with well-balanced, effortless steering.

The Malibu’s configuration – a wheelbase of 2,737 mm and a front/rear track of 1,583 and 1,585 mm, respectively – as well as its tight body structure formed the sound basis from which engineers calibrated the vehicle’s handling characteristics. Proven and continuously refined McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspensions and an isolated engine cradle are further crucial elements that add to the car’s dynamic, upscale feel as well low noise, vibration and harshness.

A key enabler to Malibu’s refined ride and handling is its ZF steering system which provides smooth transitions and on-center feel. Even in tight turns, the car displays excellent road holding and remarkably neutral steering characteristics. Standard rack-mounted Electric Power Steering (EPS) helps conserve fuel.

Solid braking power comes from 16-inch vented front discs and solid rear discs which are framed by aluminum calipers. A range of electronic systems indiscernibly enhances the driver’s feeling of control. They include:

• Electronic Stability Control System with integrated yaw sensor, lateral accelerometer and a steering angle sensor
• Traction Control that provides traction by limiting wheel spin when one or both of the front drive wheels begin to lose traction
• four-channel Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control, Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist and Brake Assist. EBD proportions brake pressure whereas Cornering Brake Control kicks in to correct oversteer or understeer when the car is braking during cornering. Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist compensates for brake fade under repeated applications of heavy braking. In the event of an emergency braking situations, brake assist increases stopping power.
• Hill-start Assist – standard
• Rear parking sensor – standard on up-level specifications. The device uses triangulation to determine relative distance and notifies the driver acoustically of close objects.

Up and mid-level specifications of the Chevrolet Malibu will be equipped with cruise control which is operated via the steering wheel buttons. An electronic parking brake is standard on all vehicles. It is activated by pressing a button on the center console and automatically disengages when the accelerator is pressed.

Malibu provides outstanding safety

Occupant safety was an overriding objective in designing the Malibu and it ranks among the safest cars in its segment. In November 2011, experts from the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) awarded the Malibu their top mark, a five-star rating.

“The Malibu is one of five Chevrolet Models in our current range to have recently been awarded the highest European safety rating,” said Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe. “Its design, handling, comfort and safety make this car an attractive alternative in the European mid-size segment.”

Apart from its sophisticated electronic control system, Malibu has a highly solid crash impact structure, 65 percent of which is composed of high-strength steels for maximum protection in the event of a collision. Front and rear crush zones have been engineered to collapse in a controlled fashion to help absorb crash energy: The front sub-frame, the longitudinal members and the upper rails leading into the lower A-pillars create three load paths that channel the brunt of any front impact. The rear section has been designed to direct impact energy towards the lower C-pillars, wheel arches and the floor.

The Malibu will feature a total of six airbags which are deployed by the sensing diagnostic module, including dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, front seat-mounted chest/pelvis air bags, and roof rail air bags.

Active headrests for protection against whiplash injury, five three-point seatbelts, pre-tensioners and load-limiters on the two front seatbelts, and a releasable pedal assembly are also part of the car’s comprehensive set of standard safety features.

Child seats can be safely anchored to the two rear outboard positions using the proven Isofix installation system. Measures for pedestrian impact protection include providing adequate clearance for all hard points under the hood, and also the adoption of a ‘soft’ hood design, with wide openings in the inner skin to provide flexibility as well as stiffness.

Three-year warranty coverage for peace of mind

Every new Malibu in Europe will come with a three-year/100,000 kilometers comprehensive warranty, a six-year anti-corrosion warranty and one-year emergency roadside assistance.

Heritage

Chevrolet’s longest-running midsize nameplate comes to Europe

• From hot rod to main street midsize sedan, Malibu spans 35 years, eight generations

The eighth generation Malibu is Chevrolet’s first global midsize and the first ever edition of the nameplate to be introduced in Europe. Having made its European debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011, the Chevrolet Malibu is the brand’s new flagship on the continent. Moreover, Malibu is the auto industry’s longest-running midsize nameplate, spanning 35 years, six decades, and eight generations.

Top model of the Chevrolet Chevelle car line

Introduced as the top model of the Chevrolet Chevelle midsize car line, Malibu’s combination of sporty design, enhanced trim and high level of standard equipment quickly established the vehicle with 200,000 total sales in its first year. From 1964 to 1967, Malibu was available in a full range of body styles including two-door hardtops, two-door convertibles, four-door sedans and station wagons.

In its debut year, the Malibu lineup included the now legendary 300-hp 5,359 cubic-centimeter V8 Malibu SS coupe and convertible; the following year saw the introduction of a more powerful 350-hp 5,359 cubic-centimeter small block. The Malibu SS Z16 package featured Malibu’s first big block engine – a 6,489 cubic-centimeter 375-hp powerplant.

For the 1966 model year, the Malibu SS was replaced by the SS396. This model came with a heavy-duty suspension and other performance upgrades. The 396 V8 was available in 325, 360 and 375 hp versions. The Malibu was significantly redesigned for the 1968 model year as fastback styling overtook the industry. This second generation of Malibus continued with the front engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, but used different wheelbases for two-door and four-door models.

Triumph in NASCAR racing and the end of an era

In 1973, Chevrolet introduced a third generation of Chevelles, including a Malibu, that would continue through 1977. The Malibu was available in coupe, sedan and wagon configurations. The Malibu SS package was offered on all body styles including the wagon. In 1974, the Malibu became the entry-level Chevelle model.

The third-generation Malibu also was successful in NASCAR. The 1973-1977 body amassed 25 winner’s circle appearances for Chevrolet drivers Cale Yarborough, Bobby Allison, Darrell Waltrip and Benny Parsons.

Responding to a rise in fuel economy demands, a smaller Malibu debuted in 1978, yet retained contemporary styling and features. The Malibu’s first era of rear-wheel-drive cars ended after the 1983 model year when an all-new generation of front-wheel-drive midsize cars was introduced in 1997, following a 14-year production hiatus.

Malibu’s rebirth in the 1990s

Malibu was reborn as a four-door sedan with a 150-hp four-cylinder engine and a V6 with 155 hp. Malibu quickly earned a reputation as a well-built, value-driven sedan and earned Motor Trend magazine’s Car-of-the-Year award for 1997.

A sixth-generation Malibu debuted for the 2004 model year in four-door sedan and extended sedan versions with Ecotec four-cylinder and V6 engines. It garnered awards and recommendations from a variety of automotive media, independent research groups and safety advocates.

The Malibu topped its segment in the 2005 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study. In 2006, the Malibu SS model was reintroduced with a 240-hp V6 with more aggressive front and rear clips, 18-inch wheels, and sport bucket seats.

In 2007, Chevrolet launched a seventh-generation for the 2008 model year. It became one of the division’s most highly decorated vehicles, earning more than 40 automotive industry honors, including the 2008 North American Car of the Year.

Global success

More than 9.6 million Malibus have been sold worldwide until May 2012 since the nameplate was launched in 1964. Awards and industry accolades continue to roll in for the model, with Malibu recently winning the Consumers Digest Automotive “Best Buy” award for the fourth consecutive year (2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 model years).

It has also been named a “Top Safety Pick” by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Chevrolet’s eighth generation Malibu – the first global midsize for customers in nearly 100 markets on six continents – will serve as the brand’s flagship vehicle in many parts of the world including China, Korea, Europe, Australia. The new Malibu is built in China, Korea and two locations in the United States.

Highlights in Malibu history

Model years:

• 1964 – Introduced as the top model of Chevrolet’s new midsize lineup, it sold more than 200,000 in its first year.
• 1968 – Significant redesign delivered a smoother, more rounded Malibu; sales increased to more than 260,000 units.
• 1973 – All-new Malibu introduced, with a “Colonnade” hardtop design developed to support increased safety requirements.
• 1978 – Smaller, trimmer Malibu with significant advances in component weight reduction is introduced.
• 1983 – Last year for rear-wheel-drive configuration.
• 1997 – Malibu reborn as a midsize, front-wheel-drive sedan, attracting accolades for value, safety and quality.
• 2004 – Redesigned on new vehicle platform, Malibu enhanced its reputation as a high-quality, safe and value-driven competitor in the midsize segment.
• 2008 – Seventh generation Malibu is launched with distinctive design, longer wheelbase and exclusive features such as a fuel-saving, four-cylinder/six-speed automatic powertrain. This current generation Malibu has sold more than 700,000 units since 2008.
• 2012 – All-new Malibu designed to deliver high levels of content and features, interior craftsmanship and set to launch in early 2012. The new Malibu is Chevrolet’s most aerodynamic midsize ever.

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