2016 Chevy Malibu
Among Chevy’s headlines is the all-new 2016 Chevy Malibu. The Malibu’s redesign still maintains the “family car” reputation but its various trim levels also add luxury and energy efficiency as keywords to the Malibu’s description. The Malibu is available in five different trims including the L, LS, LT, Premier and a stand-alone hybrid model. This article outlines the basics and specs of the of the Malibu L.
2016 Chevrolet Malibu: What’s New
This year’s version of the Malibu is 300 pounds lighter than the previous edition. The aesthetics are much more balanced, drawing inspiration from the Chevy Impala. The body is lengthy, but not long enough to hinder the vehicle’s maneuverability. The interior feels significantly more spacious as the dash has been moved down and spread out toward the corners. A newly designed seats provide extensive support. Passengers in the rear enjoy much more legroom than was available in previous versions of the Malibu.
Malibu L Exterior and Interior
Though the standard seat cushions are comfortable, buyers have the option to upgrade to leather seating. Heated seats along with front seat ventilation are also 2016 Chevy Malibu interioravailable. Both the front and rear seats are thoroughly bolstered for a secure yet relaxing feel. The front of the new Malibu sports twin grille style bands with air intakes on the larger of the two. The car’s taillights are slim, which seems to be a trend among designers in 2016. They jive nicely with the hexagon shaped exhaust outlets.
The interior of the vehicle is upscale as well. The layout is fairly conventional compared to previous Malibu incarnations that were comparatively angular. The dash is now pushed a bit forward, allowing for a more appealing look and feel. The Malibu L has ample room for storage and the center console is a surprisingly large storage compartment. There is also a special slot for a smartphone and wireless charging equipment. The new edition of the Malibu features a seven inch MyLink screen along with Apple CarPlay. It is compatible with Android Auto and allows for 4G LTE connectivity.
Malibu L Power and Feel
The Malibu is equipped with a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. Though the previous year’s Malibu carried a 2.5-liter four cylinder, the new engine feels much stronger. It provides 160 horses and 184-pound feet of torque. Tied to a six speed automatic transmission, the Malibu L glides across terrain with little noise.
2016 Chevy Malibu frontPart of the vehicle’s peaceful feel can be attributed to GM’s considerable time to reduce the vehicle’s noise. The car’s air intakes are now routed beneath the back seats and there is active noise cancellation. This uber-quiet ride provides a fuel economy of 27 MPG city and 37 MPG highway.
Drivers will find that the steering wheel is responsive to the touch due to the presence of the electric power steering. The Malibu L feels balanced, precise and composed at all times, making it a blast to drive. It is worth noting that manual gear control is possible by pulling the shift lever to the “L” position and utilizing the button on the lever’s top.
Malibu Cost and Warranty
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu L starts at $21,625. Chevrolet’s basic warranty covers the car for up to three years or 36,000 miles and has a five-year or 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
Where to get one?
South Florida’s Driver’s Auto Mart has an excellent range of makes, models and years available. While our inventory does frequently change, we have a steady flow of Chevy’s.