The Malibu and its Malibu Maxx stable-mate (covered in
a separate review) are the first North American applications
of General Motors' Epsilon global architecture, which also
provides the foundation for the new Saab 9-3 and Opel Vectra.
The Epsilon body structure gives the Malibu a high degree
of structural stiffness, greatly enhancing both vehicle
handling and interior acoustics.
With this new body structure, the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
promises to provide a better driving experience than ever.
It retains its functional equipment, ideal cargo space and
practical safety features and combines them with new appointments.
The result is quite a noteworthy entry.
Available Models
The 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is available in a base trim, an
LS trim and an LT trim.
Interior Features
The Malibu sedan has a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, plus
a fold-flat front passenger seat. This allows owners to
transform the Malibu into a pure cargo-carrier. The 2004
Malibu also has a center console that provides exceptional
functionality. It has a best-in-segment storage capacity
of 6.2L, four cupholders, a power outlet, a tray and small
receptacles for cell phones, PDAs and other items.
The 2004 Chevrolet Malibu sedan will be the first car in
its class to offer an optional factory-installed remote
vehicle starter system. With a range of about 200 feet,
it lets the driver start on the car's interior heating and
cooling systems so that it's nice and comfortable before
you even open the door.
There are four levels of radio offerings available on the
2004 Chevrolet Malibu. You can start with an AM/FM stereo
and CD player and move up to an uplevel radio with an in-dash,
six-CD changer, six speakers, automatic volume and tone
controls and XM Satellite Radio.
Exterior Features
Malibu's new Epsilon architecture results in a slightly
different look. Compared with its predecessor, the new Malibu
has a wider stance and a much more substantial front end.
Performance
The front-wheel drive Malibu is powered by one of two engines.
Base models are equipped with a 2.2-liter, inline 4-cylinder
Ecotec engine with 145 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 155 lb-ft
of torque at 4000 rpm. Standard on the rest of the line
and optional with base models is a 3.5-liter V6 with 200
horsepower at 5400 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque at 3200 rpm.
4-speed automatic transmission is standard in all models.
All Malibu models are also equipped with electric power
steering (EPS) with variable assist for low and high-speed
maneuvers.
Safety and Security
Antilock brakes and traction control are standard with the
LS model and up. A curtain side airbag is an option across
the line.
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Car Reviews
2004
Chevrolet Malibu - Specs
2004
Chevrolet Malibu - Price Quote
All-new
mid-size sedan
