New Chevrolet Malibu will be revealed to middle east market at Abu Dhabi International Motorshow in December. GM describe this car as ” drop-dead gorgeous ” in the press release! Hmmmmm… not that much really! of course it is much nicer than the car it replaces, but still far behind of big playas in this segment. Front looks quit good , side view is too simple, looks like old Caprice, but rear is awfully ugly. It seems they didn’t have time to design back end properly!
2009 Malibu comes with a 4 cylinder 2.4 litre (22 to 30 mpg) or a 3.6 litre V6 (17 to 26 mpg) both featuring Variable Valve Timing system, which optimize performance and fuel efficiency. A hybrid model will also be available. The car’s trim versions and prices are listed below:
LS – Starts at $22,275
LT – Starts at $23,175
LTZ – Starts at $27,550
Hybrid – Starts at $26,225
Throughout the years, Malibu has always been a car that placed last in every comparison test againt European, Japanese and recently Korean opponents. For the new one, let’s hope it gains some dignity in market, not that it is a good car, but because if it fails, it’ll be another nail to GM’s coffin , and it’s a pity!
source : GM
Press release :
Dubai, United Arab Emirates– The much anticipated Chevrolet Malibu is set to wow visitors of the 2008 Abu Dhabi International Motor Show in mid December with its drop-dead gorgeous design and great value for money.
The Malibu has received a host of accolades across the U.S., with around 30 industry awards to its name so far. It was ranked ahead of its rivals according to the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS) by J.D. Power and Associates. Malibu was also named Car of the Year at the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards (NACTOY) held at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Reputed American magazine, Car and Driver, also listed the Malibu among its “10 Best Cars” for 2008.
Not only is it beautifully designed, with the global face of Chevrolet proudly showcasing a strong stance and bold proportions, this mid-size sedan is extremely well-equipped and has sheer driving satisfaction at its heart.
“From the outset the Chevrolet Malibu was designed to be the best midsize car in the market, and we are so excited about its arrival to the Middle East,” commented Karen Toor, Marketing Manager of Chevrolet cars in the Middle East. “The Malibu is a great looking car that offers sensational value for money, a hallmark of the Chevrolet brand, and Middle East customers will be able to experience for themselves when it hits showroom floors in the second quarter of 2009.”
The engine roster includes the 2.4-litre four cylinder unit and the powerful 3.6-litre V6. Both feature Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology that makes the most of performance with fuel efficiency.
In the Middle East, the Malibu will be available in three trim versions: the LS, LT and the top-of-the-range LTZ. Among the broad range of Malibu models is a fuel-saving Hybrid model, which is currently being operated in Dubai, along with the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, as part of a pilot scheme being run by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority.