First Impressions of the Chevrolet Malibu for 2008
Posted: October 20, 2009 in 2008, Chevrolet, Malibu | Tags: 4-Door, Canada market, Chevrolet Malibu, LT, Sedan
The 2008 Malibu is an important vehicle to Chevrolet for the sedan market segment. The LT is a member of a series of six trim levels for the Malibu which include Hybrid, LT, LS, LTZ, Classic LS, and Classic LT. 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 Acura.
Chevrolet Malibu Engine Specs
The Malibu LT is equipped with a General Motors 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Ecotec engine is mated to a General Motors 6-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.
Malibu LT Statistics
The dimensions of the Malibu LT are 70.30 inches wide by 191.80 inches long. It sits a comfortable 57.10 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 112.30 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $20,630 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $19,495. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Sedan.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel is handled for the Malibu is a SFI design, running on gasoline fuel. The gasoline is managed by an electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The capacity of the fuel tank is 16.00 gallons.
The Malibu LT received a miles-per-gallon rating of twenty two in-city driving and thirty when it came to long-distance. Being a gas-powered non-green car, this was subpar.
Conclusion
There are several reasons why the Chevrolet Malibu LT sold well in 2008. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Chevrolet, specifically a Malibu.