MotorMouths

There’s much to like about the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, but consumers may have a hard time reconciling not only its looks and interior but also its value and spaciousness versus the class.

Considering the number of superior midsize sedans on the market, the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is hard to recommend.

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 2013 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ is a comfortable ride with a good level of standard cabin tech, but it’s a few thousand bucks overpriced when compared with the competition from Ford, Honda, and Toyota.

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 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.

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.

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.

The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is a perfectly pleasant, nondescript sort of family sedan. For the same amount of money, practicality, and space, however, we prefer something a little zestier.

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.