Sorry for the quality, they were taken from my iPod touch. I was going to LifeTime fitness, and I saw this parked and couldn't resist. Enjoy!

http://i41.tinypic.com/35btwgl.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/334mbgz.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/123s7y9.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2n369v.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/zxw3o8.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2dgtlwx.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/33b20yx.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2a686td.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/i6z3a0.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/3128p46.jpg

God the new Fusion is SO much better looking then this thing.

I'm not a fan of the new look.....

Thanks for the pictures.
I love the look from the back. I've never like to look of the back end on the 08-12's.

God the new Fusion is SO much better looking then this thing.


I agree.


I'm not a fan of the new look.....


I agree.


Thanks for the pictures.
I love the look from the back. I've never like to look of the back end on the 08-12's.


No problem! I didn't like the rear that much in pictures, but its downright UGLY in real life.

Looking at those pics the rear reminds me of the BMW 7-series. Horrible trunk - like it was forgotten until someone asked how they get stuff in the boot, then it was just tossed on. It doesn't look like it belongs on the car. Like it came from a smaller car and kinda sorta fitted onto it.

The rear window is definitely smaller than the Gen7, which is already small.

And those bowties are just getting gawdy. Way too big!

Camaro lights - look good for the Camaro, not on the 'Bu. And they're not really even "Camaro" lights, just kinda look similar. But they look like blisters.

I like the look of the new Fusion better as well.

Overall since seeing it in person and digesting the design, I'd give it a 4 out of 10. Nothing impressive IMHO.

IMHO, that back end is horrible!!!! I agree with Driven, it looks like an older 7-series - which isn't a good thing.

BANGLE BUTT :(

Hence why Chris Bangle got out of car design all together!!!!

Bangle's designs weren't that bad IMHO. In fact, I think the outgoing 3 series (E90) was one of the most beautiful car designs ever. The new one is just ghastly!

Here's a pic from the auto show! I Liked the interior, but inside of the trunk is TINY! The LTZ was nice but not so much the eco one. I LOVE the leather that GM is using in all of the new cars. I first experienced it in the Buick Regal. They are using it in the new Alure, and best of all the new Malibu. It feels so much better than "old" GM leather.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=935572403626&set=a.778785675486.2258724.38509922&type=3&theater

God the new Fusion is SO much better looking then this thing.

Agreed.

I was looking forward to something much better.

I'm going to the auto show today. Did they let you sit inside the new Malibu?

Yes they have an LTZ and an Eco to sit in. The LTZ is far nicer. However, they won't let you open the hood of the LTZ and there is no info on it as far as pricing, engine, etc.

Personally, I like Buick's new direction with their cars. The new Alure is amazing inside. It's based on a Cruz's but WAY more luxurious!

I just got back from the show. I didn't find the new interior nice at all. In fact, its downright ugly IMHO.

I just got back from the show. I didn't find the new interior nice at all. In fact, its downright ugly IMHO.

I can't agree there. While the new Malibu isn't good looking at all, the interior IMO is a HUGE improvement in design and materials over the current cars rental like one.

I can't agree there. While the new Malibu isn't good looking at all, the interior IMO is a HUGE improvement in design and materials over the current cars rental like one.


That fake vent ruins it for me. It's so ungainly in person.

With how much better looking the Gen 7 was vs Gen 6 and the competition, I can't believe they would take this thing to market. The competition is gorgeous in comparison. Fusion especially...

http://i40.tinypic.com/sytfns.jpg

Here is a picture of the stupid dash vent I took yesterday at the auto show.

Doesn't it also include "ambiance lighting", a blue-ish glow at night? To me that would tend to be distracting, and at night the only color I'd like glowing in my car would be solid red, not washed out orangy-ish or that cold blue-green, but something with warmth and depth. Or nothing. Dark at night makes it real easy to drive!

Doesn't it also include "ambiance lighting", a blue-ish glow at night? To me that would tend to be distracting, and at night the only color I'd like glowing in my car would be solid red, not washed out orangy-ish or that cold blue-green, but something with warmth and depth. Or nothing. Dark at night makes it real easy to drive!


I believe it does have the ambient lighting in there. I agree that it may distract the driver depending on color. The CTS does it rather nicely...

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg195/RAB_2008/2008CadillacCTSTSQinteriorlighting.jpg

i thought I was a fan until I saw these pictures. I love the current style and I think they ruined it with this new design. :(

i thought I was a fan until I saw these pictures. I love the current style and I think they ruined it with this new design. :(


It's even worse in person. Another observation I made was how friggin' TINY the side mirrors are!

Caddy gets small mirrors, Chevy gets bigger ones. Caddies are for ladies who are more worried about how it looks and that means the mirrors are more stylish. I like the bigger, more practical mirrors I have. It's a trend I noticed years ago.

Caddy gets small mirrors, Chevy gets bigger ones. Caddies are for ladies who are more worried about how it looks and that means the mirrors are more stylish. I like the bigger, more practical mirrors I have. It's a trend I noticed years ago.


The new Malibu's mirrors are smaller than those on the Cruze for comparison. They are tiny.

When I had a '97 Pontiac Grand Prix and my sister had a '97 Caddy Seville STS, her mirrors were noticeably smaller than mine. Lincolns vs. Ford/Mercury seem to have run the same pattern.

Small mirrors just don't make sense. The whole purpose is to have some idea what's there. Small just means harder to see, and easier to run into. If they're moving to smaller mirrors I'll wager that practical folks won't like it but the fashionistas will.

As far as the fake dash vent goes I don't think it has a light in it. The lighting RPO code for the 2013 Eco says soft blue ambient lighting, instrument panel, shifter and front door handles and map pockets. Although it wouldn't surprise me if they light it in the LTZ to try to make it look more "upscale".

http://i40.tinypic.com/sytfns.jpg

Here is a picture of the stupid dash vent I took yesterday at the auto show.

What in the eff is that? That's terrible. I might try to make it out to the Auto Show later today, since it is the last day and everything :p

When I had a '97 Pontiac Grand Prix and my sister had a '97 Caddy Seville STS, her mirrors were noticeably smaller than mine. Lincolns vs. Ford/Mercury seem to have run the same pattern.

Small mirrors just don't make sense. The whole purpose is to have some idea what's there. Small just means harder to see, and easier to run into. If they're moving to smaller mirrors I'll wager that practical folks won't like it but the fashionistas will.


I agree. It can be downright dangerous!

Anyways, here is a picture of it...

http://i44.tinypic.com/qy8dn7.jpg


As far as the fake dash vent goes I don't think it has a light in it. The lighting RPO code for the 2013 Eco says soft blue ambient lighting, instrument panel, shifter and front door handles and map pockets. Although it wouldn't surprise me if they light it in the LTZ to try to make it look more "upscale".


The picture I took was of an LTZ, but I'm sure it lights up. It would look better.


What in the eff is that? That's terrible. I might try to make it out to the Auto Show later today, since it is the last day and everything :p


Go. It's an awesome show this year!

I do like the front of the new one, however I prefer the overall design of the Gen 7. I love the high belt line of my '11 and the resulting smaller side windows. The 2013 design is not as consequent and seems to borrow style elements from too many influences.

Funny, though - looking at them both side by side from behind, the 7th gen seems to start to look a bit dated, because the new model seems to add more "3D" to its design - if that makes sense...

I like the smaller mirrors. Big mirrors belong on trucks...

I like the smaller mirrors. Big mirrors belong on trucks...


I agree somewhat, but the new Malibu's mirrors are way too small.

As if GM wasnt already on the ropes with our latest Gen 7 Malibus. i.e. the 08's had numerous problems, most were worked out in the later models, however now we are all combating new problems the 08 didnt have. Not to mention bankruptcy. Now with this new 2013 Malibu.............. I am utterly speechless, GM has no idea the world of hurt they just put themselves in. Its starting to look like Ford is going to have a lot of new customers..... Myself included. I used to have an 08 LS and I currently have a 10 2LT (fairly pleased in the over all) but I have issues just like everyone else. That new Mustang is looking pretty good.

On my next vehicle if I decide to go to another car, then it will most likely be the new Fusion. I was really looking forward to the new Malibu and have changed my mind. I really want a truck tho and in that case I will be staying with Chevy. But Im pretty sure I will not be getting a new Malibu! :(

I agree somewhat, but the new Malibu's mirrors are way too small.

I'm from Massachusetts, what are those side mirrors for, again?

I'm from Massachusetts, what are those side mirrors for, again?

Letting bicyclists know how close they are when you pass by...

;)

Looking at those pics the rear reminds me of the BMW 7-series. Horrible trunk - like it was forgotten until someone asked how they get stuff in the boot, then it was just tossed on. It doesn't look like it belongs on the car. Like it came from a smaller car and kinda sorta fitted onto it.

The rear window is definitely smaller than the Gen7, which is already small.

And those bowties are just getting gawdy. Way too big!

Camaro lights - look good for the Camaro, not on the 'Bu. And they're not really even "Camaro" lights, just kinda look similar. But they look like blisters.


Yep - agree with the comments. Maybe black isn't the best color for this new model, but hey, Gen 7s look fine with them.

As far as the trunk goes, yeah, it does have a "slapped on" look, but at least it appears that the trunk opening is larger. I think...

Looks like the bowties are a little larger, and even starting to drift back to the old Chevy bowtie. Definite debadging candidate!

Why is it that the tailights don't look as good as they did on the early drawings and pictures? Maybe my eyes are starting to go bad, or maybe marketing had a little fun with us.

No matter - my '10 'bu is doing fine, and I can't afford another car anyway.

I finally got to see one of these in person today at the Chicago Auto Show and, while it looks better in person, it still looks bad to me. The front end is nice, but that back end is hideous. The inside seems more solid than the gen 7 models, but not by much. I looked at an LTZ and the first thing I noticed inside was the stitching. It was like the cocoa cashmere now, but the stitching looks like the color of dental floss. It didn't match anything in the car so it stuck out horribly. I had hopes for the new model, but I am disappointed.

I totally agree with the stitching. Have you seen the orange, brown, and blue interior? YUCK!

I totally agree with the stitching. Have you seen the orange, brown, and blue interior? YUCK!

I haven't seen that color combo yet, but I can only imagine that it looks worse. I really wonder what they were thinking in that design. On the other hand, there was a nice cruze LTZ there that had nice brembo brakes, wheels, and other mods. I'm not a fan of the cruze, but this one actually looked good as a factory design. The new design of the fusion is growing on me pretty quick now after seeing it up close:).

I've always been a fan of the 7th Gen. and knew that the 8th Gen. was coming in '13. A couple months back I saw pictures online of the 8th Gen. and thought the back looked awful. A month later bought a '12. I thought the 8th Gen was hideous... but the inside does offer some nice lines.

My thought process was like this: I absolutely love the WJ Jeep Grand Cherokee body style ('99-'04) which changed in '05. I haven't been a fan of the styling since then. If I am ever to buy another JGC I'll be looking for an '04. What I'm getting at is I had the same impression most of you are having with the '13 in that it looks morbid. Those people who really like and appreciate the styling of the 7th Gen will more than likely be looking for the latest year in the Gen. in the future hopefully making the '12 more desirable.

I've never been happier with my decision than when I read everyone else's opinion of the '13. At the same time, it's disappointing to see this is where the Malibu is headed.

**EDIT: I read somewhere last month (which I'm trying to confirm from more than just Motor Trend & Wikipedia) that in 2013 the Malibu WILL NOT be offered in anything but the 4 cyl./Automatic 6 speed which is to include the LTZ. Halfway through the year a 2.5L is going to be introduced. What is interesting is the thought of an SS. Now that would be cool.

Watch the video in this link below for that info.

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/1109_2013_chevrolet_malibu_first_look/viewall.html

Is it a Super Sport?
After its misadventure with the Malibu Maxx SS, Chevrolet issued an edict that only true performance cars could wear the storied badge. Thus, Cruze RS, but not an SS. What about the new Malibu?

"We're studying that now," says Mark Moussa.

GM has proper engines. The 220-horsepower, 2.0-liter Ecotec Buick Regal CXL Turbo engine would be perfect for a Malibu RS. A Malibu SS would require the Regal GS's high-output 2.0-liter turbo, which makes 270 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 295 pound-feet at 2500-4000 and gets a respectable 19/29-mpg with the optional six-speed manual. "I'd say, stay tuned," Moussa hints. "You may be pleasantly surprised in the future." :eek:

270 ponies under the hood sounds good, until you realize that my V6 has 252 (published by GM) without any mods. Another 20 would be welcome, but it wouldn't become an SS even if GM decided to stick the badge on it. Maybe it would take more like 300 or 350 to really turn it into a "burner", but then we'd need to see it in a rear-drive version, and that'll never happen. At best they might (might) offer 4WD, and I keep hearing on different gearhead shows that 4WD is different enough when launching than RWD or FWD that it leaves something to be desired.

To have a real chance at making a "real" SS available they'll have to go with RWD or wave their magic wands an awful lot for it to work on FWD. By turning off TC I can burn rubber at 40 mph by simply stomping on it in the right gear. Imagine a lighter 4-cylinder with more ponies!

By turning off TC I can burn rubber at 40 mph by simply stomping on it in the right gear.


In the Malibu?

Only have the one car, so it's all I can burn 'em in! ;)

In the Malibu?I think he must be on ice LOL.

epic fail. They really could have ran the 08-12 look longer with slight adjustments.
2013, the next generation mash together car i guess. killing the Malibu name perhaps?
bulky lame front end like there little sonic.... thennn to try and mash in the rear of a camaro...tisk, why would you? not unique. And a sub par interior.designed for wear and tear much like the hhr.
Ic GM is back to saving some money again.
GM sometimes u impress. sometimes you fail. 08-12 Malibu success. 2013 Malibu. my opinion, a complete fail.... as if you knew it looked like shit, yet decided to produce it.

Only have the one car, so it's all I can burn 'em in! ;)

I think he must be on ice LOL.


I'll be sure to try tomorrow! :p

I'll be sure to try tomorrow! :p

Hahahaaa oh God I can see the newest thread now, "How to burn rubber @ 40 mph in 2nd gear with your 3.6L/A6" :cool:

Hahahaaa oh God I can see the newest thread now, "How to burn rubber @ 40 mph in 2nd gear with your 3.6L/A6" :cool:


How did you know?! :D:p

How did you know?! :D:p

I'm waiting for the "how to" so I don't have to waste time figuring it out in mine. lol!

Truth be told I just got the '12 to the floor getting on the interstate for the first time this morning. I wanted to wait till I was close to 1,000 miles before I pushed her to hard. I made it to a little over 800. I did so in the manual mode to really stroke 'em out. Not bad for a 4 banger.

I for whatever reason remember the rental 4 banger being faster. But you know what they say? Nothing accelerates, brakes, corners (enter whatever you want here) like a rental car. :D

I'm waiting for the "how to" so I don't have to waste time figuring it out in mine. lol!

Truth be told I just got the '12 to the floor getting on the interstate for the first time this morning. I wanted to wait till I was close to 1,000 miles before I pushed her to hard. I made it to a little over 800. I did so in the manual mode to really stroke 'em out. Not bad for a 4 banger.

I for whatever reason remember the rental 4 banger being faster. But you know what they say? Nothing accelerates, brakes, corners (enter whatever you want here) like a rental car. :D


Here is a video I shot about a week ago... :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaD8ZlrYxMg&feature=youtu.be

i'm still looking forward to see one here in las vegas. The first 3 are on the way from Michigan and will be here in a few weeks. So far, it looks like the community doesn't like it. I'll have to check it out for myself

Here is a video I shot about a week ago... :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaD8ZlrYxMg&feature=youtu.be

I coulda sworn that was my car! ;)

So what's the deal with the '13 anyway? Are they already on the lots or was the car pictured at the beginning of this thread a dealer car or something?

I know the '12's aren't supposed to run all the way through the whole year but I'm not familiar with a new year car being presented so early.

Just curious.

Here is a video I shot about a week ago... :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaD8ZlrYxMg&feature=youtu.be

Nice man, it's all "Chirp." I like that 0-60 vid. You had two hands on the wheel right!? :rolleyes:

Hahahaaa oh God I can see the newest thread now, "How to burn rubber @ 40 mph in 2nd gear with your 3.6L/A6" :cool:
Well, now that you mention it...

How did you know?! :D:p

I'm waiting for the "how to" so I don't have to waste time figuring it out in mine. lol!

Truth be told I just got the '12 to the floor getting on the interstate for the first time this morning. I wanted to wait till I was close to 1,000 miles before I pushed her to hard. I made it to a little over 800. I did so in the manual mode to really stroke 'em out. Not bad for a 4 banger.

I for whatever reason remember the rental 4 banger being faster. But you know what they say? Nothing accelerates, brakes, corners (enter whatever you want here) like a rental car. :D

OK, "How To": I was on a hill, it was cold but no ice or moisture on the road, it was early, car was still warming up, on concrete, Hankook Optimo H727 tires (about as grippy/slippery as the stock GY Eagle LS2 that I took off, but still better overall), dumped the throttle to beat the light, and Voila! - burn, baby, burn! I don't remember what gear it was in, but it was probably 2nd.

I coulda sworn that was my car! ;)


You do the same huh? :D


Nice man, it's all "Chirp." I like that 0-60 vid. You had two hands on the wheel right!? :rolleyes:


Mayyyyyybe... :)


OK, "How To": I was on a hill, it was cold but no ice or moisture on the road, it was early, car was still warming up, on concrete, Hankook Optimo H727 tires (about as grippy/slippery as the stock GY Eagle LS2 that I took off, but still better overall), dumped the throttle to beat the light, and Voila! - burn, baby, burn! I don't remember what gear it was in, but it was probably 2nd.


Hmmm... I'll be sure to try this today!

I think it's ugly. It looks like they got lazy and started piecing it together from other cars. Then wanted to make sure it could do the truffle shuffle.

Well, I thought it looked okay in the other thread, but then I saw this...

I don't think it's ugly, but I also don't think it's any improvement over the current generation. If anything, I think it's worse, and pales in comparison next to the Fusion which looks like a mini-Jag.

I think I'll be hanging onto my Bu until the 2017 Malibu...hopefully they get it right then. If that fails, I think a Buick will be on my agenda.
.
.
.

I about puked all over myself when I saw the back end. Is it just me or does it look like they just went to Walmart and bought the biggest instant-add-on trailer lights they could find and slapped them onto the rear?

The rest of the car isn't terrible, but the back just destroys it. Also, like someone mentioned earlier, the bow-ties are horrendously giant. They could have gotten another 3mpg out of it had the bow-tie not caused so much drag!

...the bow-ties are horrendously giant. They could have gotten another 3mpg out of it had the bow-tie not caused so much drag!

:D:D Haa Haa Haa!!!!! :D:D

The local dealer has two of them in stock. I want to drive it...

@EnvoyBu, I get to drive a 2013 Malibu in approximately two hours. LOL Will report back after.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Sorry for the quality, they were taken from my iPod touch. I was going to LifeTime fitness, and I saw this parked and couldn't resist. Enjoy!

http://i41.tinypic.com/35btwgl.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/334mbgz.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/123s7y9.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2n369v.jpg

by looking at your pics I will say your car style looks better then the 2013.
but thats just me. I happen to realy the style from 08 to 2012
the front of it looks like a chevy cruz to me

Well, it is not new for big firms to screw up a product. Look at Mazda...
They screwed up Mazda 3 front end by adding that dorky front end for IIRC 2010 and newer models.

One important part is to improve the mechanics of the car...How does the tranny behave on the new models?

Well, it is not new for big firms to screw up a product. Look at Mazda...
They screwed up Mazda 3 front end by adding that dorky front end for IIRC 2010 and newer models.

One important part is to improve the mechanics of the car...How does the tranny behave on the new models?

I'll take my "dorky" front end any day over my piece of crap Malibu. I actually get almost as many complients driving my Speed3 as I do with my Camaro...

I'll take my "dorky" front end any day over my piece of crap Malibu. I actually get almost as many complients driving my Speed3 as I do with my Camaro...


I hear you...I had 08 Mazda3 S HB, I had hard time accepting newer models with updated front end...honestly I miss my Mazda 3's handling after driving my malibu for ~40K miles.

@EnvoyBu, I get to drive a 2013 Malibu in approximately two hours. LOL Will report back after.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service


Don't be shy to share your experience! :)


by looking at your pics I will say your car style looks better then the 2013.
but thats just me. I happen to realy the style from 08 to 2012
the front of it looks like a chevy cruz to me


I'm not a fan of the new styling. It's trying too hard and looks like it was designed by 10 different people that never met together.

my has a new fusion looks ok i take the new malibu in time i heard there might be a ss version

not really diggin the new look... but everyone has different taste...

my has a new fusion looks ok i take the new malibu in time i heard there might be a ss version


Uhhh... what?

wait for Bu 8 in Russia
great car...

As an owner of a 2011 1LT; here is my issue with the 2013 'Bu ..... it is too small. I bought my car because I am 6"2" and have three boys. They have tons of room in the back seat.

I understand why Chevy did this. They hadto differentiate it from the upcoming Impala. The Cruze is for two people and maybe with a one small kid. The new 'Bu is for 4 people and the Impala will now be the size of the Gen 7 'Bu.

The good news is that you can steal a 2012 loaded LT or LTZ for a 6000 or 7000 off sticker. I am seeing used LT2's with teen miles for 16K. A steal for the money.

Too small? How can that be when the new Malibu is based on the Opel Insignia platform which is a bigger car than the the Gen 7 Malibu, which is based on the Opel Vectra platform... just curious.

The new Malibu isn't small, but it has shrunk from this generation.

Yes it has shrunk. Almost 2 inches in rear legroom. Sit in it and see for yourself. It is wide but rear legroom is vastly smaller. It is more like the Regal now; which I can hardly get into the rear seat if the front seat is put where I like it.

Yes it has shrunk. Almost 2 inches in rear legroom. Sit in it and see for yourself. It is wide but rear legroom is vastly smaller. It is more like the Regal now; which I can hardly get into the rear seat if the front seat is put where I like it.


It has shrunk, which I acknowledged, but it isn't tiny. Regal isn't a small car by any means. Want small? Look at the Sonic. Keep in mind the outgoing Malibu is a very large midsize, much like the Accord, which is too big...

I'll keep my old gen 5 with 202k on it.

It has shrunk, which I acknowledged, but it isn't tiny. Regal isn't a small car by any means. Want small? Look at the Sonic. Keep in mind the outgoing Malibu is a very large midsize, much like the Accord, which is too big...


I am not digging the newer Accords today but my 03 & 05 that I had owned in the past was nice with little / no issues! The seats were much more comfortable and the trunk opening was much bigger also! I think that having that little extra room is not a bad thing! Most passengers like to have the leg & head room, rather than being cramped / uncomfortable, at least I do!:)

Yea, I just don't know who would want a Sonic, way too small! I shake my head every time I see those Smart cars on the road, what a death trap! They say they got some good crash ratings but I say a bigger Vehicle with today Safety features will always win over the little guys and the fact that there is no room for anything in those cars!

I am not digging the newer Accords today but my 03 & 05 that I had owned in the past was nice with little / no issues! The seats were much more comfortable and the trunk opening was much bigger also! I think that having that little extra room is not a bad thing! Most passengers like to have the leg & head room, rather than being cramped / uncomfortable, at least I do!:)

Yea, I just don't know who would want a Sonic, way too small! I shake my head every time I see those Smart cars on the road, what a death trap! They say they got some good crash ratings but I say a bigger Vehicle with today Safety features will always win over the little guys and the fact that there is no room for anything in those cars!


Indeed. As far as the Accord goes, I think that the generation you owned were the best Accord built. It was just a good car.

Sonic is actually nice. I did a plant tour over at Lake Orion Assembly last June, and the car is pretty impressive.

@EnvoyBu, I can understand your feelings about the new style of the 2013 Malibu and respect your opinions about it. I can't get use to the styling either, but all in all eventually it will grow on me.

I loved the handling of the vehicle. It had the ECO engine and was amazing. I could get into a lot of trouble with that vehicle…LOL. Took it on the highway and before I knew I was at 70mph.

I loved the handling of the 2013 Malibu and it just seemed to float down the road. The MyLink was interesting and would love some additional time to play with it and get detailed with that new feature.

Seats were comfortable and the interior was driver friendly in my opinion.

If any of you have questions please, let me know.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Indeed, thanks for sharing. Which one do you like better, the new Generation 8 Malibu, or the outgoing Generation 7?

both good, but 8'Bu looks better outside

Things I like:

1) Center brake light moved from window to trunk. Helps visibility and cleaning back window is simpler.

2) Front end of car, excepting what I consider a huge Chevy emblem. Too much for my taste. Otherwise, I think it looks pretty well done.

3) The interior ambient glow. The blue-green lighting is a nice touch, to me.


Things I don't like:

1) Interior dash displays. The division of the displays does not sit right with me. The two pods are oversized and the middle display is minimal. However, the steering wheel, in the way I position it while I drive, blocks part of the display of each. I feel the three displays of the 7th generation Malibu work better.

2) Storage space. The loss of the compartment above the stereo would be missed. The hidden compartment behind the stereo is nice, but would be lost by someone replacing the stereo with an aftermarket unit, which I have a tendency to do.

3) Tail end. The flow of the car, to me, is broken here. I prefer a merging of the c-pillar to be flush with the trunk instead of there being a step-up type of design.

Overall, I like the car, but if I was looking for a new car now, I would go for the Cruze over the 8th gen Malibu.

However, I love my 7th gen Malibu. I have had zero issues with it. Three years old and runs like a dream. The Talty's dealership here in Morris has done quality inspections as well as replaced a pair of loose tie rods, under warranty, in just a few hours.

I really like the entire car at first when I saw pics elsewhere.
The hood has some good lines.
But the tail lights are not my favorites.

Things I like:

1) Center brake light moved from window to trunk. Helps visibility and cleaning back window is simpler.

2) Front end of car, excepting what I consider a huge Chevy emblem. Too much for my taste. Otherwise, I think it looks pretty well done.

3) The interior ambient glow. The blue-green lighting is a nice touch, to me.


Things I don't like:

1) Interior dash displays. The division of the displays does not sit right with me. The two pods are oversized and the middle display is minimal. However, the steering wheel, in the way I position it while I drive, blocks part of the display of each. I feel the three displays of the 7th generation Malibu work better.

2) Storage space. The loss of the compartment above the stereo would be missed. The hidden compartment behind the stereo is nice, but would be lost by someone replacing the stereo with an aftermarket unit, which I have a tendency to do.

3) Tail end. The flow of the car, to me, is broken here. I prefer a merging of the c-pillar to be flush with the trunk instead of there being a step-up type of design.

Overall, I like the car, but if I was looking for a new car now, I would go for the Cruze over the 8th gen Malibu.

However, I love my 7th gen Malibu. I have had zero issues with it. Three years old and runs like a dream. The Talty's dealership here in Morris has done quality inspections as well as replaced a pair of loose tie rods, under warranty, in just a few hours.

I really like the 7th GEN over the 8th!!!

I really like the 7th GEN over the 8th!!!

Same here. Although, with the fuel economy offered by the Cruze now, it would be a tossup for me at this point between a 2012 Malibu or Cruze. I would also consider the Kia Optima, although that would rank third on the list atm.

Same here. Although, with the fuel economy offered by the Cruze now, it would be a tossup for me at this point between a 2012 Malibu or Cruze. I would also consider the Kia Optima, although that would rank third on the list atm.

If you are in the market for Cruz type car, look at Mazda 3 with skyactive engine... Reaches to 40mpgh and they are called poor man's BMW.

If you are in the market for Cruz type car, look at Mazda 3 with skyactive engine... Reaches to 40mpgh and they are called poor man's BMW.

The Mazda 3 is a nice looking car, although the dual pod driver displays aren't my thing. At the moment, all I'm doing is looking :)

I love my Malibu. It would take something with roughly double the fuel efficiency as my car, similar driving experience and a price tag in the same ballpark, maybe the next block over, to get me to consider trading it in.

Thanks for the pics, the black actually looks good in my opinion. But I still think the 08-12 design looks better. I am sure the new design will grow on people kinda like when they changed the design in 2008 lol. I remember when I first saw a 2008 and was like "wow those rear taillights are weird" and then they grew on me! I like my 2011 look and maybe when I am ready to upgrade Chevy would come out with a different designed Malibu. I do hope the sales for the New Malibu do well so GM can keep going forward. I just better not type in chevymalibuforum and it takes me to a Ford fusion forum site, since so many people like the new design including me lol

Wow since someone commented on the fusion i had to look for myself
I have NEVER been a fan of ford vehicles but i have to say they stepped it up with the 2013 fusion it looks like a Jaguar i can't believe how much better looking it is than the new malibu.

That new Fusion is really nice. Looks better in person too.

I agree with DarkMali08 I never seen the 2013 Fusion , checked it out and wow blown away at how it looks on the outside and inside.
It definitley looks better then the new malibu , which got so much going on at the same time, I just got a Cruze for a rent a car because my 08 Malibu is being fixed and wow I like the cruze for what it is.

I agree with DarkMali08 I never seen the 2013 Fusion , checked it out and wow blown away at how it looks on the outside and inside.
It definitley looks better then the new malibu , which got so much going on at the same time, I just got a Cruze for a rent a car because my 08 Malibu is being fixed and wow I like the cruze for what it is.

The Cruze is not bad, "for what it is" as you worded it. It offers no back seat if you put a 6' tall driver like myself in the drivers seat. I would not consider it a good family car, but good for a couple who doesn't intend on road tripping with anyone in the back seat. The inside is very trendy though. It's not as spacious as the Malibu by any means however.

If I am correct. One of our members have said that the 2013 Malibu has decreased in leg room in the rear seating but it was wider, which would make sense since the new Malibu is wider!

I find that the generation 7 model does not offer any more room in the rear than our Ford Focus, except for leg room! Width wise is about the same and leaves the middle rear seat almost useless on both cars! This Five Passenger car "Malibu" is really meant for 4 people at the most!

Again, reduced leg room on the 2013 Models if that information was correct!

The new Malibu does indeed have less legroom then the current generation.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b381/Fun-In-Va/CMF/2012-2013MalibuDimensionComparison.jpg

RED = Smaller in 2013 from 2012
GREEN = Larger in 2013 from 2012

Citation:
2012 Dimensions (http://www.chevrolet.com/malibu-mid-size-sedan/features-specs/)
2013 Dimensions (http://www.chevrolet.com/malibu-eco-fuel-efficient-sedan/features-specs/)

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b381/Fun-In-Va/CMF/2012Malibu2012CruzeDimensionComparison.jpg
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b381/Fun-In-Va/CMF/2013Malibu2012CruzeDimensionComparison.jpg

Citation:
2012 Malibu Dimensions (http://www.chevrolet.com/malibu-mid-size-sedan/features-specs/)
2012 Cruze Dimensions (http://www.chevrolet.com/cruze-compact-car/features-specs/)
2013 Malibu Dimensions (http://www.chevrolet.com/malibu-mid-size-sedan/features-specs/)

Well, I guess that information was off / a mistake! The 2013 actually has more room in the rear seats than the Generation 7 Model, according to those charts! The 2013 is larger in many area's! Where it is smaller is in the trunk area and less headroom which really sucks. It took me some time to get the act of getting into & out of my Malibu without banging my head!

Looking at the Cruze Dimensions; it is not far off from the Malibu and actually has more room in a couple areas like the Cargo / Trunk and the Front headroom

I was too lazy to look it up!

Thanks for posting!

Well, I guess that information was off / a mistake! The 2013 actually has more room in the rear seats than the Generation 7 Model, according to those charts! The 2013 is larger in many area's! Where it is smaller is in the trunk area and less headroom which really sucks. It took me some time to get the act of getting into & out of my Malibu without banging my head!

Looking at the Cruze Dimensions; it is not far off from the Malibu and actually has more room in a couple areas like the Cargo / Trunk and the Front headroom

I was too lazy to look it up!

Thanks for posting!

You're welcome. I was curious so put some charts together for easy comparison after I got tired of flipping between tabs on my browser. Figured I'd post them for others the quick reference as well.

As for the Cruze, it's got more impressive numbers than I remember when sitting in it. I just vividly remember getting out of the drivers seat, looking into the back seat and thinking there wasn't very much room there. The comparisons say it's 2" less in second seat leg room vs. the Malibu. That's somewhat impeding given the Malibu just comfortably seats 4 adults as it is.

The numbers for the new Malibu impressed me.

And if you think getting in and out of the Malibu is bad, try getting in or out of a Miata!! Haha it's literally about 3" off the ground. It might have been a year before I stopped slamming my head into the roof on that thing.