2008 Chevrolet Malibu Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
My parents owned a Malibu back in the late 1970s, and my best friend used to say the name "Malibu" sounded like some kind of cow. She...
My parents owned a Malibu back in the late 1970s, and my best friend used to say the name "Malibu" sounded like some kind of cow. She wouldn't say that today about the upcoming 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, which has been totally redesigned to seriously compete with once-bigger rivals like the Camry and Accord. Sharing a platform with the Pontiac G6, the new profile is sleeker, with a swept-back windshield and headlamps and the new signature dual grilles that sit atop each other with a strip of steel body in between. The interior is much more upscale, with a dual-pod dashboard that wraps around and the option of two-tone cloth seats. Other additions include a sunroof option that is now 70% larger than the 2007 version.
The midsize sedan grows in size as well, with three inches added to the overall length and six inches to the wheelbase, making it the largest sedan in its class. Legroom now ranks with that of its more popular competitors. The three trim offerings remain the same -- base LS, LT, and LTZ, but the engines have been revamped. The base engine is now a 2.4-liter Ecotec I4 that boosts 20 hp to hit 164 hp with a choice of 4-speed or 6-speed auto tran. The new optional engine is a 252-hp, 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (that's a 35-hp improvement over last year), mated to the 6-speed automatic. All trims come with ABS brakes, traction control, dual front airbags and new side airbags. Stability control is included on the LT and LTZ.
Set to come out in October is a hybrid version of the 2.4 Ecotec, available in the LS trim. This is the first hybrid in a Malibu, and it features regenerative braking and engine shutdown at stops (without sacrificing operation of certain features, such as air conditioning). It's paired with a 36-volt motor and supposedly will get 24/32 mpg. It looks like the 2008 Malibu might finally give its Japanese rivals a run for their money, offering a much better looking and outfitted car to drivers who still want to buy American.
What owners say
"The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu receives generally positive feedback from drivers. Many appreciate its reliability, good gas mileage, and spacious interior. Owners also mention the car's stylish design and comfort during rides. However, some drivers express concerns about the car's acceleration and power, noting it could use a bit more get up and go. Overall, the Malibu is viewed as a dependable and economical choice."
We have loved this car - runs great has a lot of room even fits my 6'5" son comfortably. this car is very reliable. We have never had any problems in the 4 years we have owned it. Love this Car!
November 8, 2014I recently purchased a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, and my experience has been outstanding. This SUV offers a perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and advanced features. BEST EXPERINCE.
June 5, 2024This car has been very reliable. Great gas millage, very very nice handling in acceleration and braking power. Stability very good as well. Quiet ride. This car is very comfortable on long road trips. The seats are great. Very safe car.
October 22, 2014What owners say
We have loved this car - runs great has a lot of room even fits my 6'5" son comfortably. this car is very reliable. We have never had any problems in the 4 years we have owned it. Love this Car!
November 8, 2014I recently purchased a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, and my experience has been outstanding. This SUV offers a perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and advanced features. BEST EXPERINCE.
June 5, 2024This car has been very reliable. Great gas millage, very very nice handling in acceleration and braking power. Stability very good as well. Quiet ride. This car is very comfortable on long road trips. The seats are great. Very safe car.
October 22, 2014It's got ALOT of pick up for a 4 cyl. Mine is metalic black. It looks very pimp. Interior is stylish, black cloth seats, and silver accents. Onstar included, as well as XM radio. I love driving this car! You get A LOT for what you pay for the car.
August 17, 2008we were please with the cleanliness, (the vehicle was spotless inside and out). The vehicles performed and handled good, and we were pleased with the price of the vehicle.
August 14, 2020There is no dislike about my car. I would recommend the brand to anyone who would be willing to purchase an economic car. It is not expensive to maintain, fuel efficient and much more. That's my recommendation. I think Chevy is one among the best economic to look for on the market if you are looking for something durable and so forth.
June 14, 2014Very nice fuel efficient car. Has nice interior features and drives very nice. Has a large trunk but the opening is not very big. This car has a pretty good build quality. My wife drives it most of the time and she loves how smooth it rides and loves the power sunroof and adjustable foot pedals.
September 27, 2012I really love everything about this car. I have only had a problem with how low the under pinning comes down in the front of the car. It is easy to drag or scrap objects. The car rides, drives, and runs very smoothly and quietly. Love it!
June 23, 2012The overall appearance of the car is superior. It was its stylishness that first caught my eye when I purchased it. The car has run great and has handled with the upmost proficiency. The maintenance on the vehicle has been within normal costs. Others have mentioned that the acceleration is one of its cons but I beg to differ. When ever I needed that extra punch to merge with highway traffic it always performed and never let me down. Most of the mileage on the car is due to highway traveling and because of the Cruise Control and Traction Control options, my driving experience was comfortable and safe.
March 1, 2013Overall awesome car. Had one issue with the power steering, but nothing else. The only thing I really don't like about the car is the severe lack of power and acceleration. The fuel economy is great, and the interior has room for days. Strongly recommend to anyone!
December 12, 2012Trims & specs
Base MSRP $19,695 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 145 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $17,935 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 145 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,345 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 169 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,425 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 169 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,320 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 219 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,305 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 169 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $21,985 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 169 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $26,345 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 252 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
