2017 Chevrolet Malibu Review Lancaster SC

What's New for the 2017 Chevy Malibu?

In recent years, Chevrolet has refined the long-running Malibu nameplate to place it in the top tier of today's midsize sedans. For the 2017 model year, the Chevy Malibu is brand-new, thus kicking off its ninth generation of production. The 2017 Malibu is available in four trims: L, LS, 1LT, and Premier. The Premier model is notable for replacing the LTZ from the previous generation as the top-of-the-line model.

Typically, the 2017 Malibu relies on a small, 1.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder (I4) engine, which outputs 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. However, if you go with the Premier, the sedan gets a larger and more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 instead; it generates 87 more horsepower and 74 more lb-ft of torque. Each engine is linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission for ultimate gear shifting convenience. Inside, the Malibu yield 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, with two rows of seats for up to five people. If you choose the Premier, Chevrolet adds heating capability on the front seats, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Malibu's standard comfort and convenience features include a six-speaker stereo system with AM/FM radio and electronic cruise control. On the LS, Chevrolet adds a Wi-Fi hotspot for 4G LTE Internet access, Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation and audio streaming, the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch color touchscreen, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for controlling the stereo head unit with your smartphone. Upgrade to the 1LT, and Chevrolet adds a three-month SiriusXM satellite radio subscription. And on the Premier, Chevrolet switches the 7-inch screen and the six-speaker set-up with an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, upgrades the HVAC system with dual-zone automatic climate control, and adds remote vehicle start and a color driver information display screen. A 10-airbag system–which includes knee airbags for the front occupants–provides protection in the event of a crash. Other standard safety features on the 2017 Malibu include 16-inch all-wheel disc brakes on all wheels with ABS, traction control, a three-year OnStar Guidance Plan subscription for a suite of emergency services, ECM grade braking control that is particularly instrumental when driving in hilly areas, and the StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system. On the LS trim and higher, Chevrolet adds a rear vision camera for flashing a video image to guide you when driving in reverse, and there's also Teen Driver mode for encouraging safe driving habits in younger drivers.

* The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment.

** Actual mileage may vary.