THE Chevrolet Malibu has remained an enduring classic among its peers since it was introduced more than 50 years ago. Now, the quintessential midsize sedan boldly steps into the future with an all-new 2017 model that is completely restyled and engineered to offer more efficiency, connectivity and advanced safety features than ever.
Longer and lighter, the new Malibu also offers more interior space. Built on an entirely new architecture, the all-new Malibu is 60 mm longer and has a wheelbase that is 93 mm longer than the previous model.
Through the extensive application of high-strength steel and advanced weight reduction technologies, the all-new Malibu shed 130 kg of mass. This supports its best-in-segment fuel economy and exhilarating ride performance.
More vehicle highlights:
• Agile, sophisticated and sleek exterior design incorporates details that advance Chevrolet’s signature cues
• Preventive safety technologies include up-to 6 air bags, with available features such as Forward Collision Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Automatic Parking Assist and Side Blind Zoe Alerts are also available
• New Chevrolet MyLink with Apple CarPlay compatibility
The new Malibu will be offered in LS, LT and LTZ.
Beneath the all-new Malibu’s athletic-looking skin is a stronger, lighter body structure that contributes to its efficiency and driving dynamics. The greater application of high-strength steel enabled the use of thinner components in the body structure.
The 186 horsepower 2.5L ECOTEC engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission offers performance to match the Malibu’s stunning good looks. This vehicle was engineered with effective fuel efficiency in mind, with leading fuel economy of 14.3 km/L.
The all-new Malibu features a MacPherson strut front suspension design that delivers a greater measure of control with rebound spring, and a proven four-link suspension design to offer segment-best ride and handling through individually tuned bushings on each link.
Four-wheel antilock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and standard disc brakes with Duralife™ brake rotors along with four-channel ABS offer straighter, more controlled braking in all conditions as well as an improved feeling of firmness and smoothness.
Available active safety features include:
• Front Pedestrian Alert that uses a forward-looking camera to help avoid or reduce the harm caused by crashes with pedestrians ahead of the vehicle. The system can apply automatic last-second braking
• New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert
• New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Front and Rear Park Assist
• Intellibeam, which automatically switches the headlamps to high beam for better road illumination and improved visibility
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking
• Automatic Parking Assist.
Sleeker design with lighter, stronger body structure
The exterior of the all-new Malibu has sleek and sporty proportions with uniquely sculpted surfaces, advancing Chevrolet’s signature design. It incorporates slim, sweeping headlamps and offers a progressive take on the brand’s distinct dual-port grille. Three body-side character lines add drama to the design and distinguish it as a contemporary Chevrolet.
Premium design cues are incorporated on all models, with contemporary lighting technology featured across the lineup, including light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps.
The longer wheelbase allows a more open execution of Chevrolet’s signature dual-cockpit interior while improving knee clearance in the front and providing additional space in back. Every styling detail – including the steering wheel, the cluster and even the buttons – is completely new, indicating the next design direction for Chevrolet.
The IP panel’s down-and-away design and lower cowl allow more space up front and ensure greater visibility with the infotainment system naturally delineated into it. The separated center console creates more room for the driver and front-seat passenger’s legs and knees.
The completely redesigned rear-seat area provides vastly improved roominess compared to the previous-generation Malibu, resulting in 33 mm more legroom and better knee clearance. The added wheelbase helps provide better in-cabin comfort and functionality.
On the LTZ, extensively applied soft-touch components and wooden deco elements exude a high level of quality, complementing the ambient lighting running through the IP and storage pocket, for a premium atmosphere.
Malibu’s MyLink infotainment system gives owners a smart and simple way to access Apple CarPlay.
Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features customers want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps is at http://www.apple.com/ae/ios/carplay/.
Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the steering wheel, helping drivers spend more time with eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. — SG
