Available for sale in early 2012, Chevrolet’s 2013 Malibu Eco model delivers 38 mpg hwy (26 mpg city, 32 mpg combined) as well as loads of standard luxury features at a relatively low price (base $25,995 MSRP includes $760 destination charge). GM is smartly launching this new Malibu’s efficiently-tuned 2013 Eco months before the summertime availability of the 2013 Malibu’s other three trim levels (LS base, mid-priced LT and fully-loaded LTZ).
At 38-mpg hwy, the 2013 Chevy Malibu is comparable to gas-electric hybrid sedans, which are also going to cost thousands of dollars more than a Malibu Eco. That’s pretty amazing savings at the pump for a racy 2.4-liter, 182 hp, four-cylinder direction injection six-speed automatic transmission engine. Yes, driving a turbocharged four-cylinder green car can feel as good as driving a V6!
What is Chevy Eco?
Chevrolet has been developing its Eco or “eAssist” system in several models, most notably in the Buick Regal and Chevy Cruze. Although not considered a hybrid vehicle, Chevrolet’s powertrain engineers added a lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor generator to power some of the car’s functions. And although the battery adds 65 pounds to the vehicle, these “electrification” tweaks delivers true hybrid-like fuel efficiency. Other fuel-minded design features on the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu include a highly aerodynamic exterior with electronically-controlled lower grille “shutters” for maximizing wind drag. Another cool performance feature on the ’13 Malibu Eco is “hill assist.” On personal road test of this standard braking function, I discovered “hill assist” really does keep the vehicle stationary when stopped at a steep grade (that means no more sliding backward especially in snowy driving situations).
2013 Chevrolet Malibu Exterior
From looking at images of the new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, this automotive journalist and pro road test reviewer likes what she sees. I’ve road tested many of Chevy’s new vehicles and this 2013 Malibu seems to embody ever more sophisticated Euro-Asian design DNA with just enough American bravado. The pointy nose on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu looks similar to the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze except for the cat-like head lamps. The back side may be the most transformed and in a very good way. Somehow, the bootylicious 2013 Chevy Malibu has a Camaro-like double bulging fender, trunk and rear spoiler. Meow Malibu!
2013 Chevrolet Malibu Interior & Auto Infotainment
GM seems to be holding back on interior images. So far, the 2013 Chevy Malibu’s interior has some good sporty, yet sophisticated style. And, most important, a 7-inch touch screen infotainment screen is built right into the central console. This new Malibu will finally feature Chevy MyLink infotainment system. Chevrolet says this technology “seamlessly integrates online services like Pandora internet radio and Stitcher smart radio.” As an expert on auto infotainment, I’m excited to road test Chevy MyLink technology and compare it to Ford’s SYNC and Kia’s UVO systems.
Overall and depending on price, it looks like Chevrolet has another green car winner with its available-this-winter 2013 Chevy Malibu.
Sheryll Alexander - Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer, automotive journalist and professional road test reviewer based in Costa Mesa, CA.
