2009 Chevrolet Malibu Overview Change Vehicle

This 2009 Chevrolet Malibu overview explains changes for the model year, provides a summary of the 2009 Malibu, and includes Chevy Malibu safety, reliability, and fuel economy ratings.

With a complete redesign still visible in its rearview mirror, the Malibu enters 2009 with only minor enhancements. The OnStar system’s capabilities have been broadened and now include handy Bluetooth connectivity, while safety has been addressed by making stability control standard on all models. The Malibu Hybrid receives new 17-inch wheels with low rolling resistance tires. Rounding out the changes is the introduction of four new colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Gold Mist Metallic, and Silver Moss Metallic.

If you’re a fan of the Chevrolet Malibu and can go without a long list of extras, the LS model is what you’ll want to consider. This is the least expensive version of Chevy’s popular sedan, yet it still includes OnStar telematics with one year of free service, stability control, air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks with keyless entry, a power driver’s seat height adjuster, a CD player, an auxiliary audio input jack, and satellite radio. Few options are offered on the Malibu LS.

If you want more equipment than what the LS model offers, the Malibu LT is your ticket to happiness. The LT model adds just a handful of additional standard features for its base price, but is available with a wide range of options, among them a V6 engine, alloy wheels, a power sunroof, remote engine starting, Bluetooth, upgraded upholstery, a better stereo, and a power rear sunshade.

The Malibu Hybrid model is based on the Malibu LT, adding automatic climate control and new-for-2009 17-inch alloys with low rolling resistance tires. There are fewer options on the Hybrid model, but you can get a power sunroof, a six-way power driver’s seat, and power adjustable pedals.

For the ultimate in Malibu living, try the LTZ which comes with leather, automatic climate control, remote engine starting, heated side mirrors, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a six-way power front passenger’s seat, a HomeLink universal remote, and several other items. Every LTZ is equipped with unique 18-inch alloy wheels and fog lights. A power sunroof and a power rear sunshade are among the few options available on the Malibu LTZ.

Malibu shoppers have a variety of powertrains to choose from, starting with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 169 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. Output reaches the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission on LS and LT models; a six-speed automatic is optional on the LT and standard on the Malibu LTZ. Fuel economy is at its best with the optional six-speed automatic, registering 22 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Stick with the four-speed transmission and the EPA suggests you’ll see the same mileage in the city but only 30 mpg on the highway.

Next up in the Malibu’s tool chest is a 3.6-liter V6 with variable valve timing and 252 horses backed up by 251 lb-ft of torque. That grunt reaches the pavement courtesy of the six-speed automatic, a combo that’s good for 17 mpg around town and 26 mpg out on the open road.

For those considering a family sedan, that 17-mpg city rating isn’t terribly impressive, especially if fuel economy is paramount. The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid makes a better case in that regard with EPA estimates of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. At the heart of this gas/electric model is the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine found in other Malibus, though in this case it’s working with an electric assist motor and a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Net horsepower comes in at 164, while torque peaks at 159 lb-ft.

For years, Chevy’s mainstream sedan has been considered average in terms of reliability, but that changes for 2009. Evidently, Chevrolet has worked out first-year bugs from 2008 and the 2009 Malibu now receives better-than-average reliability predictions from both J.D. Power and Associates and Consumer Reports.

In addition to being reliable, the 2009 Malibu is safe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the midsize sedan 5-Star ratings in all categories except resistance to rollover, which is rated 4 Stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has uncovered similar findings in its battery of crash tests, labeling the Malibu with its best rating of Good in the offset frontal, side impact, and roof crush strength assessments. If there’s anything to be concerned about here, it’s the Marginal rating that the Malibu receives from the IIHS for rear injury protection in a rear impact crash.

Among midsize sedans, the Chevrolet Malibu proves itself a worthy choice with solid safety scores, favorable reliability predictions, noteworthy fuel efficiency, a long list of convenience features, and a variety of powertrains. Though it’s no sports car, the Malibu is more enjoyable to drive than some of its competitors, and it has more visual appeal to boot.

The Malibu Hybrid, on the other hand, makes a weak case for itself. Updates for 2009 produce 4 extra mpg in the city and 1 more mile per gallon on the highway, but we can’t see how that’s compelling enough to purchase the more complex powertrain. If you really need a midsize car and really want to improve fuel consumption, direct your attention to the Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry Hybrid, or Nissan Altima Hybrid, among others.

By Thom Blackett