2013 Chevrolet Malibu Review to you here at the New York Auto Show, and we were pleasantly surprised by the announcement of the 38 mile-per-gallon Malibu Eco model. Today, we bring you live shots of both cars now that the flashbulbs have dimmed enough to allow us a better look at both models.
The Malibu ECO is a smart choice for customers who want excellent fuel economy without the price premium of popular hybrid sedans," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "The Malibu ECO’s 38-mpg highway estimate is comparable with those hybrids. Malibu ECO exemplifies Chevrolet’s drive to use technology that delivers high-value, gas-friendly performance. In fact, the Malibu ECO delivers the fuel economy of a compact car in a midsize sedan.
Power comes from a basic 2.4L Ecotech direct-injection four-pot paired with an electric motor-generator that prides itself as being only 65 pounds, which is an impressive feat. All of that power is transferred through a new six-speed automatic. The result is a total of 180 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque from the four-banger with an extra 15 hp available from electric power assistance during heavy acceleration.
The Malibu ECO also features underbody aero enhancements and electronically controlled shutters in the lower grille that close at higher speeds to push more air over and around the car. The shutters are open or closed based on engine coolant temperature and speed. For instance, they open when the car is traveling up a hill, pulling a trailer, or in hot city driving, and they close at highway speeds when engine cooling is less required. The Malibu ECO rides on 17-inch wheels shod in low-rolling-resistance tires also engineered to improve economy.
Other aerodynamic features on the Malibu ECO include:
- Outside rearview mirrors designed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency
- Taillamps are shaped for aero performance without design penalty
- Four underbody panels - more commonly found on premium-priced cars - cover approximately 50 percent of the lower portion of the vehicle and provide an aerodynamically clean flow path under the vehicle
- Standard 17-inch wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires engineered to improve fuel economy.
