Chevrolet Malibu. 2008–12 (prod. n/a). 4-door sedan. F/F, 2401 cm³ petrol, 2401 cm³ petrol–electric hybrid (I4 DOHC), 3564 cm³ (V6 DOHC). Chevrolet finally makes a Malibu that’s an import-beater, with quality on a par with Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Interior far improved, also on a par, even on base models. Much larger than before, dwarfing even Impala in terms of interior space. Hybrid model offered with four-cylinder engine, but a market failure, as mpg savings were very small against the petrol model. Good ride, steering average. Still on Epsilon platform shared with Opel Vectra C (which it replaced in México) and Saturn Aura. Despite launch for 2008 model year, no sat-nav screen.

Manufacturing locations: Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Lake Orion, Michigan, USA

Marque: Chevrolet | Model: Chevrolet Malibu | Predecessors: Chevrolet Malibu (2004–8), Opel Vectra C | Successor: Chevrolet Malibu (2011–19)

Off-site link

• Ulrich: ‘A GM Hybrid that Misses the High Notes’, The New York Times, June 21, 2009