The all-new Chevrolet Malibu received some much-needed interior space and a price decrease for 2016. The new Malibu starts at $22,500, including a destination fee, for the base L trim level; that's about $800 less than the outgoing model.
For 2016, Chevrolet stretched the Malibu's wheelbase, dropped 300 pounds of weight and slapped in a more efficient turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission for a Chevrolet-estimated rating of 27/37 mpg city/highway. The midsize Malibu is looking to stand out in a crowded segment against the Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima.
Related: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu: Up Close
The Malibu's starting price undercuts those competitors: The Accord starts at $22,925, Fusion at $22,985, Camry at $23,905 and Altima at $23,125. However, there's an asterisk next to the Malibu's new price considering it doesn't include Bluetooth or a backup camera standard like the Fusion, Accord and Camry do.
What's standard on the base Malibu is a single USB input, OnStar with a six-month subscription, an engine stop-start system and push-button start with proximity keyless entry.
Step up to the LS model ($23,995) and Chevrolet MyLink is standard with a 7-inch touch-screen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for compatible smartphones as well as Bluetooth and a backup camera. LT models ($25,895) add LED daytime running lamps, satellite radio with a three-month trial, an eight-way power driver's seat and rear console climate vents. Optional on LT models are several safety systems: lane keeping assist, Front Pedestrian Braking, Low Speed Front Automatic Braking as well as a Teen Drive feature that blocks music and paired devices when front-seat occupants' seat belts are unfastened. These features are standard on the top Premier trim level.
The 2LT trim level ($29,495) introduces the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that bumps power from the 1.5's 163 horsepower to 250 hp and is the Malibu's V-6 equivalent engine. Fuel economy is projected at 22/32 mpg city/highway.
At the top of the Malibu lineup is the Premier trim level ($31,795) that includes the higher-output 2.0-liter as well as dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touch-screen with upgraded Bose stereo, driver memory seat, a 120-volt household power outlet in the rear passenger area, remote start, heated and ventilated front seats, and leather seating.
Pricing for the Malibu Hybrid (48/45/47 mpg) will be available closer to the start of production in spring 2016. All other Malibu trims are scheduled to go on sale in late 2015.
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