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First Impressions of the Chevrolet Malibu for 2006

The 2006 Malibu is an important vehicle to Chevrolet for the hatchback market segment. The Maxx SS is a member of a series of eight trim levels for the Malibu which include LS, LT, LTZ, Maxx LS, Maxx LT, Maxx LTZ, SS, and Maxx SS. The four-door car with its front-wheel drive is positioned to aggressively fill this niche for Chevrolet. There is strong competition from vehicles from Infiniti.

Performance

The Malibu Maxx SS is equipped with a General Motors 3.9 liter six-cylinder engine that utilizes 12 valves. The engine is mated to a General Motors 4-speed Transaxle. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Chevrolet.

Steering control is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Malibu has power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. The car uses coil front springs and coil in the rear.

The fuel system for the 2006 Malibu is a SFI design, running on gasoline fuel. The fuel flow is regulated by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The storage capacity of the fuel tank is 16.00 gallons.

Malibu Maxx SS Statistics

The dimensions of the Malibu Maxx SS are 69.90 inches wide by 188.30 inches long. It sits a comfortable 57.50 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 106.30 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.

The standard warranty period for the Malibu is 36 months, or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty also includes a warranty on the drivetrain for 36 months or 36,000 miles respectively. This is standard in the hatchback market. Extended warranties are also available through the dealer.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $16,365 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $15,465. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Hatchback.

Fuel Efficiency

The 2006 Malibu gets 32 miles/gallon on the highway and only 24 in the city. This is exceptional for a hatchback car.

The vehicle is available in Black, Dark Blue Metallic, Medium Gray Metallic, Sandstone Metallic, Silver Green Metallic, Silverstone Metallic, Sport Red Metallic, and White.

Conclusion

The 2005 model began the promise of the Chevrolet Malibu. The 2006 expanded on this success and has proven to be a strong seller in most markets. Even with strong competition from other manufacturers Chevrolet hopes that the Malibu Maxx SS will continue to be a profitable vehicle.