The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu comes in 6 models. The selection of colors for the exterior of this mid-size sedan is available in 9 colors.
Performance
The available engines for the Chevrolet Malibu are a V6 and a 4-Cylinder. They run on gasoline. The engine displacement for the 4-Cylinder engine is 2.4 liters while the engine displacement for the V6 engine is 3.6 liters. They both use a 6- speed automatic transmission with manual shift. The Malibu is a front wheel drive vehicle.
The horsepower capacity ranges from 169 to 252 while the torque capacity ranges from 160 to 251. They are all equipped with electronic fuel injection. Its fuel economy for city ranges from 17 to 22 miles per gallon while its fuel economy for highway ranges from 26 to 33 miles per gallon. The maximum capacity of the fuel tank is approximately 16 gallons.
Exterior & Interior
The wheels are polished either in aluminum or in chrome. It is equipped with fog lamps and daytime running lights. The seats are available in custom cloth or leather. The height of the driver seat is adjustable which allows lumbar support. The steering wheel and the shift knob are covered with leather which provides comfort and easier grip. The front, rear, and trunk are carpeted with floor mats. The audio entertainment provides good quality of sounds with its 8-speaker sound system. It also has am/fm radio, CD player, and mp3 player.
The satellite radio provided by SiriusXM comes in a trial subscription available for three months. It also has a port for USB-capable devices. The Malibu is mid-size sedan that is also equipped with 110 volts of alternating current household outlet supply. The Bluetooth technology allows the mobile phone connectivity wirelessly for a safer driving experience. The Malibu can accommodate a total of 5 passengers.
The 2012 Malibu has 6 air bags designed for front side impact, rear side impact, and thorax side impact. This mid-size sedan can be controlled remotely. It has remote keyless entry and remote vehicle start. The use of OnStar services increases the safety features of the Chevrolet Malibu. It has services for crisis assistance, automatic crash response, and emergency services which are available every day. The Malibu is equipped with a system for traction control and vehicle anti-theft. The rear door is also designed to have a child security lockout.
The Competition
The 2012 Malibu provides more safety features compared to other sedans at the same price range. They include the Toyota Camry (MSRP $20,195; 22 city / 33 hwy) and the Honda Accord (MSRP $22,180; 23 city / 34 hwy). All have practical fuel economy performance. The fuel tank capacity is noticeably the lowest compared to the others.
Overall Rating
75 out of 100
What others say:
“The spacious 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has a level of comfort and refinement that’s hard to beat in this class.”Car Connection
“Body lean is well controlled in all models. Four-cylinder versions use electrically assisted steering that’s light at low speeds for easier maneuverability, whereas the V6’s weightier hydraulic power steering and wider tires provide a sportier driving feel and better grip in fast turns.”Consumer Guide
“Rear seat is less spacious than rivals; inconsistent quality of cabin materials; lacks some competitive features.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $21,995.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16 gallons (60.5 liters) | MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy |
| Length: 191.8 in. (487 cm) | Width: 70.3 in. (178.5 cm) |
| Height: 57.1 in. (145 cm) | Wheel Base: 112.3 in. (285 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3432 lbs (1556 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 15.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L 16-valve DOHC inline 4 | Displacement: 145 cu in |
| Horsepower: 169 HP | Max RPM: 6400 RPM |
| Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic with manual |
| 0-60 mph: 8.7 seconds | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:Malibu LT | MSRP: $23,355; MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy |
| Option:Malibu LTZ 3.6L V6 | MSRP: $28,485; MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy |
