Baltimore-Washington area drivers looking for a hybrid option that’s bigger than your typical imported model have been checking out the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. At least, those who can find it have done so.
The 2008 model now wrapping up its year at most dealerships has drawn good reviews and attention for its atypical appearance for a hybrid. But many dealerships in the region have yet to get them in stock.
“We’ve gotten a lot of interest in it because of its advantages in gas mileage,” said Tim Althoff, a sales manager at Jerry’s Chevrolet in Towson, about the Malibu Hybrid’s EPA fuel mileage ratings of 24 mpg city and 32 highway, on 87 octane. “But we haven’t gotten any to sell yet.”
They might have better luck connecting their waiting list of Malibu Hybrid buyers with the 2009 models they expect to start receiving in September.
That model has a fuel economy rating that goes up 2 mpg in both city and highway because of improved control of the battery charge and discharge system and new low-rolling-resistance tires. Malibu Hybrid had a slow start this year because of a lack of batteries.
Unfortunately, the 2009 Malibu Hybrid will have an $800 price increase, pushing the starting price to $25,345. The increased cost allows the addition of standard 17-inch ultra-bright aluminum wheels and touring tires and five exterior colors.
The appeal of the Malibu, according to area dealers, is that it is a midsize sedan that comes with a mileage rating more typical in subcompacts.
The vehicle’s mild hybrid, or one-mode hybrid, is less expensive and less complex than the two-mode system used by Toyota. Although that means it doesn’t need the sophisticated electronics that two-mode hybrids use, the Malibu also lacks the large battery pack that allows for driving on battery power alone. The Malibu uses a smaller battery pack and electric motor assist acceleration, which allows the engine to shut off at stops, and regenerative braking helps recharge the battery.
The Malibu Hybrid exchanges the fuel economy for slightly less horsepower than the standard four-cylinder Malibu. But dealers say many buyers — including customers crossing over from imports — have found the trade-off to be acceptable.
The Malibu Hybrid includes a charging meter and an Eco light to let drivers know when they are driving in the most fuel-efficient manner possible.
The 2008 model includes remote locking, automatic air conditioning, power mirrors and windows, 16-inch alloy wheels and touring tires. Safety features include head curtain side-impact air bags and four-wheel-disc brakes with stability and traction controls.
Although some have raised questions about the longevity of various types of hybrid batteries, the Malibu Hybrid’s advanced nickel metal hydride battery pack is covered by a generous eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
The Malibu has drawn interest among many first-time Chevy buyers because it is a midsize four-door with good back-seat room and adequate trunk space — features that are sometimes hard to find in hybrids. Its attractive exterior has helped too, said area dealers.
Editor’s note: Includes information from Mark Maynard of the Creators Syndicate.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
- Engine: aluminum, 164-horsepower, DOHC, Ecotec 2.4-liter four-cylinder
- Transmission: four-speed automatic
- Fuel economy: 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway
- Price: $23,895 base, including $650 freight charge; no options on test car
