GM President North America Alan Batey at the New York International Auto Show with a longer, lighter “completely restyled” 2016 Chevy Malibu.
Chevrolet today introduced the all-new 2016 Malibu – a completely restyled sedan that will provide more competition in the shrinking midsize car segment. Malibu is longer and lighter, with more interior space and improved fuel efficiency. Its wheelbase has been lengthened almost four inches (101 mm), and it is almost 300 pounds (136 kg) lighter than the current model. It goes on sale during the fourth quarter of 2015 as the ninth generation of a model that dates back to 1964.
The main selling point aside from sleek styling appears to fuel economy with the hybrid version at a GM-estimated 48 mpg city, 45 mpg highway, 47 mpg combined; now leading the segment. The Malibu’s standard 1.5-liter turbo powertrain is projected at 37 mpg highway. (We will see for how long these numbers impress since the technologies used are well-know, available to all automakers and in common use.)
The all-new, Ecotec 1.5-liter turbo is part of a new global family of small-displacement gas engines designed with greater power density to offer performance with excellent efficiency. It uses the stop/start system introduced on the 2014 Malibu, which enhances efficiency in stop-and-go driving, contributing to a GM-estimated 27 mpg in city driving, an 8% increase compared to the current model. On the highway, 1.5-liter-equipped models have adjustable grille shutters that reduce aerodynamic drag.
The 1.5-liter engine s rated at a GM-estimated 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 184 lb.-ft. of torque (250 Nm). The torque is comparable to the current model’s standard 2.5L-liter naturally-aspirated engine in a vehicle package that’s nearly 300 pounds lighter.
The new Malibu will be offered in L, LS, LT and Premier trims, as well as the Hybrid model. The Premier trim, Chevrolet’s new pricey designation, debuts in the 2016 Malibu. Additional model and trim details will be announced closer to the start of production.
