The Malibu received the prestigious 2008 North American Car of the Year award at the Detroit auto show. In addition, the Malibu was named as one of the "2008 10 Best Cars" by Car & Driver magazine. Both awards were well deserved, from our perspective.

Totally redesigned for the 2008 model year, the Malibu has new interior and exterior features that make it a real player in the family midsize sedan segment. The Malibu shares a platform with the Saturn Aura, Saab 9-3, and the German Opel. It is 3 inches taller and 6 inches longer than the 2007 model.

With a starting price of $19,995, the 2008 Malibu lineup features five offerings: the base LS, two LT models, the LTZ, and Hybrid edition (limited availability). Our tested unit, the 1LT model, had an MSRP of $20,505 and was equipped with one optional power convenience package (power six-way driver's seat, remote start, and power adjustable pedals) for an additional $515.

There is much to like about the new Malibu, from the sharp exterior styling to its superb handling characteristics. Interior space and seating comfort for the driver and passengers is exceptional. It rides like a luxury sedan, is solidly built, and Chevrolet officials are correct when describing the fit and finish of the vehicle as world-class.

The standard engine on the new five-passenger Malibu LS and LT gasoline and Hybrid models is a fuel-efficient, ECOTEC 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine mated with a four-speed automatic transmission (the LTZ has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with a six-speed automatic tranny). This powertrain combination provides an amazing amount of acceleration and overall performance, and the

EPA fuel economy estimates on our tested LT model were 22 mpg/city and 30 mpg/highway.

With a four-wheel independent suspension, the new Malibu LT offers as standard equipment antilock brakes and GM's StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System with traction control and Panic Brake Assist for added safety.

 
Also in the safety area, all the Malibu models feature dual-stage front airbags with a sensing system; Thorax front-seat mounted side-impact airbags; head-curtain side-impact airbags for front and rear outboard passengers; a rear child-seat latch system; plus a one-year OnStar plan that provides navigation information, vehicle diagnostics, remote door unlock, and an automatic crash response system. The Malibu has 5-Star frontal and side-impact government crash ratings.

 
With everything from power doors/windows/outside mirrors to a quality climate-control system, the Malibu has plentiful standard equipment packaged in a pleasant interior setting. Controls on the dash and steering wheel are easily accessed by the driver, and the center shifter is conveniently placed. An AM/FM/CD audio system features multiple speakers with a nice sound; three months of XM Satellite radio is included.

The Malibu is surprisingly quiet on the inside, due in part to new acoustic laminated glass and extensive added sound-deadening features.

Overall, this new model is a joy to drive. It's tight, quiet, comfortable, and, most important, it handles exceptionally well with its reactive rack-and-pinion steering--all for an appealing price for a four-door sedan.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu 1LT (as tested):
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Engine: 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC VVT
Horsepower: 169@6,400 RPM
Torque: 160@4,500 RPM
Transmission: 4-speed auto with overdrive
Wheelbase: 112.3 inches
Turning radius: 36.0 feet
Cargo capacity: 15.1 cubic feet
Brakes: 4-wheel ABS
Wheels: 17-inch chrome spoke
Tires: P225/50R17 touring type
EPA est. fuel economy: 22 MPG/city; 30 MPG/hwy