2010 CHEVROLET MALIBU HYBRID Review and Prices

The Hybrid model uses GM’s mild hybrid system which also sees duty in the Saturn Aura Green Line and combines a Hybrid Propulsion Electric System with a 2.4L ECOTEC engine. Mated to a GM Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission, the system produces 164 horsepower. The Hybrid has been rated for 24 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway, using the EPA’s new testing procedures.Visually, the Hybrid differs from other Malibus only by badging, low-rolling resistance tires and unique interior gauges. GM’s approach is more “hybrid lite” than some automakers.Hybrid production takes place at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee plant. The Hybrid model comes standard with much of the equipment offered with the LS trim level of the regular Malibu, including automatic climate control and StabiliTrak.

2010 CHEVROLET MALIBU AND MALIBU HYBRID BUYING ADVICE
* Overhyped? A little. But if the Chevrolet Malibu doesn’t quite match the Honda Accord for driving precision or the Toyota Camry for refinement, it is a credible enough alternative to either, particularly if you grant it a point or two for being a domestic-brand car.
* Seriously consider the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, a gas-electric job that runs smoothly, rates 26 mpg city/34 highway, and is attractively priced at around $25,000. Lots of value, too, in a middle-of-the-range LT model with the perfectly serviceable four-cylinder engine/six-speed automatic transmission combination. Opting for the V-6 engine makes for a lively Malibu, but not one worth the extra cost in gas or monthly payments.
* The 2010 Chevrolet Malibu or Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is right for you if want to reward an American car company for creating a quiet, thoughtfully designed midsize sedan that feels fresh and looks assertive

2010 CHEVROLET MALIBU AND MALIBU HYBRID CHANGES
* Styling: Not much change. Not much needed. By any standard, Malibu both inside and out is modern, original, and self-assured. This basic look wont change before Malibu’s next full redesign, likely for model-year 2012. * Mechanical: Little alteration likely to the gas four-cylinder engine or the V-6, which should continue to generate around 170 and 250 horsepower, respectively. General Motors is working on an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain that allows charging the battery pack from a household-type electrical socket, not solely via the on-board recharging system. That boosts the range a hybrid can run exclusively on electricity, saving gas. It isn’t likely to find its way into the Malibu Hybrid for 2010, however, meaning a continuation of a rather elementary hybrid system incapable of propelling the car on electricity alone. * Features: A navigation system was conspicuous by its absence on the 2008-2009 Malibu most every rival offers one so that would be a worthwhile addition to the 2010 Malibu.

And the base LS model should have rear disc brakes instead of drums. Otherwise, there’s little room to expand a features roster already wide enough to include a power rear sunshade, remote engine start, and power adjustable pedals. * At around $22,000, the Malibu LS comes only with the four-cylinder engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, and few available extras. At just $1,000 or so more, the LT is a better value, adding the safety of rear disc brakes and an antiskid system, plus such niceties as steering wheel audio controls and 17-inch wheels in place of 16s. The top-line LTZ starts around $25,000 and is generously outfitted with leather upholstery, power heated front seats, 18-inch alloys, and other goodies. Figure another $2,100 or so to add the V-6/six-speed automatic to the LT or LTZ. Starting around $25,000, the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is equipped similarly to the LT model. These approximate prices include destination fees.

A couple of months ago, GM made an interesting announcement regarding its mild hybrid technology, such as found in the Chevy Malibu hybrid. Around 2010 GM will begin using lithium-ion batteries in their mild hybrid powertrains. Thus, around 2010 the Chevy Malibu hybrid will become a lithium-powered mild hybrid, but it will still be a mild hybrid, right?

Who cares?

I just finished reading a review of the Malibu hybrid that claimed that GM will turn the Malibu hybrid into a full hybrid. Does that mean a lithium-powered mild hybrid, or a dual mode hybrid, such as the GMC Yukon hybrid?

GM’s dual mode hybrid technology is a great bit of hybrid technology, but a technology that was especially designed for large vehicles, especially vehicles carrying heavy payloads or that tow regularly. Such capabilities, however, are not required for a Malibu hybrid. So, is GM going to scale down the dual mode hybrid powertrain for cars - something I’ve been calling for now for a few years - or is GM going to brand its mild hybrid technology as full hybrid technology once lithium is adde