[FenwickHockey65]

Unless you're keeping your social security number, your bank account number, your passport, and all your credit cards in your glove box, it's not a problem. And like pwinskey said, if someone's going to steal your Malibu, they're not going to worry about the lock, they'll just bust it open using a good old crowbar.

 

[FenwickHockey65]

lol @ people asking why there would be a need to lock the glovebox.

you really think a 4 year old should be able to grab a gun which is inside of it at any time he wants?

When I was four years old, my parents told me not to go through the glovebox because they were scared that I'd mess up the paperwork inside.
I never did.
Discipline is key, especially with firearms. My dad taught me about his guns when I was little and told me not to mess around with them because I could get seriously hurt. When I turned 13 and he bought me a BB gun, I still did everything he told me from when I was little, safety on at all times, trigger lock installed, magazine emptied, all that stuff.
And if I were to keep a handgun in my car for self-defense, I wouldn't want a glovebox lock. I'd have to fiddle around to unlock it first before I could pull out the firearm. Those couple seconds could cost you your life.

 

[FenwickHockey65]

Speaking of the access to the gas cap. How does one open the fuel filler door? I have looked at Malibus on the dealer lots and I don't know how you would open the filler door if there is not a release inside. I own a '98 Honda Accord and that's one feature I like about the Japanese brands - inside release of the fuel filler door. Also, I'm nitpicky - anyone else rather have the fuel filler door on the driver's side instead? If GM is to compete with Japanese brands they need to match on ALL the convenience features and then some.

I don't know where I just had this discussion...was it here or on GMI...I don't know.
Anyways, to answer your question, the Malibu's fuel door is on the passenger side probably because it was the best place to put it. Most likely the Epsilon platform has something on the driver's side preventing the fuel door to be placed there. In addition, it helps protect the vehicle during refueling as you won't slam the door into the gas pump or those annoying bars on either side of the pump.
And c'mon...does it take THAT much effort to walk around back? If anything, it'll give you a good view of that Chevy badge. Should fill you with pride.