MotorMouths

The Chevrolet Malibu, regardless of its turbocharged engine, is not a sports sedan. What it is, though, is a very, very good family sedan. If sportiness isn’t as much of a concern for you, we think you’ll really like the relaxed pace of this turbocharged Malibu.

The Chevrolet Malibu has the size, room, features and conveniences a family sedan needs. The rear seats are roomy. Fit and finish inside and out are world-class. We think it stands up well to the best in its class.

A strong engine doesn’t necessarily make a strong car, but the Malibu does benefit from the addition of a Turbo model. With plenty of power, a comfortable ride, and a few conveniences, buyers without much need for rear seat room should find plenty to like.

It’s hardly a stretch to call the 2013 Malibu the best modern Chevy. Styling is crisp and restrained. Interior is roomy and quiet, outfitted with classy trim. Engine’s strong.

The 2013 Malibu is loaded with features and, with the arrival of the 2.5-liter engine (and upcoming 2.0-liter turbo), presents owners with plenty of powertrain choices to meet their needs and tastes.

What the Malibu turbo models offer, in the end, is a value-priced package, conservative yet tasteful, with a high degree of refinement but no evidence of passion. It’s for the person who wants to drive 85 mph on the freeway without attracting notice.

With decently weighted steering and a supple ride, the Malibu Turbo is an excellent long-distance cruiser. A revised front suspension imparts a bit more body control and livens handling a smidge compared to other Malibus, but some competitors are more rewarding to pilot.

The Malibu is a Recommended choice among midsize cars. It stands out for its refined powertrains, smart interior design, and value pricing. We especially like the smooth, quiet 4-cylinder engine.

Given the wealth of benefits that come with the 2013 Malibu, we think Chevrolet has risen to become a top choice for a midsize family sedan. Quite simply, the new Malibu feels like a more premium product.

The Malibu offers a solid amount of power and an impressively smooth and quiet ride. Rivals can boast the best price, the best fuel economy, the best reliability or the best style. The Malibu, however, is missing a unique identity to help it stand out.

The Malibu is a very competent mid-size sedan that excels in some areas (refinement, trunk space, safety) and trails in others (interior design, rear-seat comfort, value-for-money). “Good enough” simply isn’t good enough.

The Malibu Turbo proved itself capable and compliant, if not entirely enthused about corner carving. The interior seems as if the designers came up with a solution that met product-planner/bean-counter approval, but it is functionally excellent.