While the midsize Chevrolet Malibu had a couple of hybrid variants in the past, it wasn’t until the current generation that the automaker went all-in with a full hybrid version. The 2019 Malibu Hybrid sees some updates. Changes start at the front of the car. The grille is an all-new, softer design than the one it replaces. The upper and lower sections are separated only by a bar that runs partway through the subtly-redesigned headlights. The turn signals are now lower in the bumper, flanked by reshaped LED light signatures. At the rear, the LED taillights have been completely redesigned. As before, it is still difficult to tell the Malibu Hybrid apart from its conventionally-powered counterpart without glimpsing the badges. The Malibu Hybrid sends power to its front wheels via a 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder engine combined with a dual-electric-motor setup for 182 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to the electric motors, no transmission is necessary. It delivers an impressive 49 mpg city, 43 highway, and 45 combined, the same as last year. Chevrolet continues to offer the Malibu Hybrid in just one trim. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, 8-way power seats, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, keyless start and access, and ambient lighting. Add-ons include leather, heated front seats, a 9-speaker Bose audio system, wireless charging, remote start, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. New for 2019 is the latest Chevrolet infotainment system that now includes a standard 8-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There’s also a redesigned instrument cluster with an 8-inch reconfigurable LCD. Every Malibu Hybrid gets a standard reversing camera and Teen Driver, which lets parents monitor their children’s driving behavior and set operating parameters. The optional Driver Confidence I package includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-change alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors. Driver Confidence II adds on forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, front pedestrian braking, following distance indication, low-speed automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. For car buyers looking to transport five people in comfort, there’s no more efficient way to do so than the 2019 Malibu Hybrid. Look for the updated version to hit the market late this year or early next year.