Standard equipment includes 10 airbags, cruise control, push-button start with passive entry and stop/start technology on the base 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. LT models ($25,895) add LED daytime running lamps, satellite radio with a three-month trial, an eight-way power driver’s seat and rear console climate vents. Those figures are based on General Motors’ estimates, as official EPA estimates are not yet available. It is also the first in-vehicle system in the industry that lets parents view information on how their teenagers drove the vehicle, which can be a teaching tool to reinforce safe driving habits.
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Chevy offers the Malibu in five trim levels, namely L, LS, LT, Hybrid and Premier, and as you’d expect, prices go up as you climb the lineup ladder.
The Malibu’s starting price undercuts those competitors: The Accord starts at $22,925, Fusion at $22,985, Camry at $23,905 and Altima at $23,125. We could tell Chevrolet wanted to come out guns ‘a blazing with the 2016 Malibu, and the pricing strategy seems to reflect the ideal. The automaker plans to attract many new buyers with the stylish design and luxurious interior of the next-generation Malibu. The base models of the Mazda6 and Hyundai Sonata are priced slightly cheaper than the Malibu L.
Step up to the LS model ($23,995) and Chevrolet MyLink is standard with a 7-inch touch-screen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for compatible smartphones as well as Bluetooth and a backup camera. These features are standard on the top Premier trim level. Its wheelbase has been stretched almost four inches, and it is almost 300 pounds lighter than the previous model, to assist with handling and fuel economy. Additionally, a hybrid model is also undergoing manufacturing at the moment, which is expected to give around 47 mpg.
The redesigned Malibu is scheduled to arrive in USA showrooms by the end of the year.
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Pricing for the 2016 Malibu Hybrid will be announced closer to its on-sale date next spring.
