would say most LTZ owners have only a few thousand or less on their cars right now.....any good assessment for rattles, pops etc........needs a good year plus of ownership...and a few tens of thousands of miles on it...to really determine quality interior workmanship IMO.
you are right. however for some cars the rattles are built-in and are there from day 1. At least now we can establish if the Malibu is not one of those.
After six months and 6K miles no squeaks, rattles or change in handling characteristics. Replaced a defective AC compressor which was compromised because of filings and shavings found in the unit. The AC has worked fine since. Also, tightened a loose panel (due to powerful vacuum cleaner suction) on console near gas pedal.
Otherwise, the car is flawless and given GM's new employee incentive pricing promotion I am tempted to trade in my Avalon for an LTZ.
I am JUST like you...and I can honestly say our '08 Malibu 2LT 4-cyl is as tight and solid after 6.5 months and 7500 miles as it was new. Nothing clunks, nothing clicks, nothing rattles, etc.
In stark contrast to my '08 Pontiac G6--that is also usually a very solid car, and on the same platform--that has had a variety of sounds on top of mechanical issues, in less than 2 months. I should have bought a Malibu...for sure.
Reading through an owner's board, it seems like everyone has the same sentiment with the Malibu--and I know of a few people who actually came to the new Malibu seeking a car that was finally whisper quiet and rattle free. Not that a noise can't pop up in anything, but it seems very well done and such things are few and far between. Really the only noise I've seen with any is a bit of something from the rear package shelf--clicking or a light rattle--in both the Aura and a few Malibus. But again, not that common, really.
Again...oh I too should have bought another Malibu. Riding in it compared to my particular G6--which I still think is a quiet and solid car generally--it feels like it cost twice as much.
Oh, and funny enough, you're not the first to do the Accord switch because of such things. I was just reading on the Malibu owner's site--and this wasn't the first--from another guy with a year old Accord he tried to love but just never felt right with it, especially with the noise and all the rattles in his. Guess what? Now in a Malibu and loves it. Nothing is perfect, but this car definitely has a lot right about it.
Sorry to hear your problem.. What is the resolution? did the dealre fix your problem? What is new for 09 Malibu? I heard that the 4 cylinder come with 6 sp auto now. Is that true...
That's good to hear that the Bu is finally going in the right direction, my leased 05 BU had the shake rattle and roll syndrome. It still amazes me that with all the technogoly and experience with building cars that some one hasn't figured out how to stop it or slow it down.
My less than 2 month old '08 G6 has the shake, rattle, creak, pop, thud, and roll syndrome, too, which is just bizarre given how perfect our Malibu that sits beside it is and how the other G6's are that I've been in. This is among other more severe issues, but I just drew the short straw on this one...not common, and it happens.
I had an '07 Malibu rental with 15k on it from Enterprise for a month and it was solid as a tank, even in the freezing winter months, except for a clunking strut up front. Not a single vibe, ever, either. The last gen was known to have a few common noises, but this rental was a further push towards our '08 new purchase.
Any clue as to why another Malibu is on my list--even though my issues aren't the norm for the G6--for a replacement when the lemon repurchase goes through for the Pontiac? Yeah, thought not. It'd be an even easier decision if there was a Malibu coupe...the one thing that gives me pause, ha!
Oy, do I hate creaks and rattles...thankfully the Malibu is extremely well done in this regard, overall.
In my search for something to replace my '03 Escape I have narrowed it down to an '08 Malibu 2LT and a Base '08 Pontiac G6. I put a deposit down on the Malibu mainly because of the interior is much nicer than the G6. Also the G6 makes you get a V-6 to get alloy wheels and power seats. Several years ago I would probably have preferred the V-6 , but with the uncertainty of gas prices I would really prefer the 4 cyl.. I have always liked the exterior style of the G6 though.
The prices on employee pricing are pretty attractive so I will need to decide by Tuesday.
Yead, Accords are not the tighest cars. As to trading them, I know a number of people who traded early and went varienty of directions - Tundra, Subary WRX and others....Accords are great to drive, but you have to be indiffirent to interior sounds to enjoy those cars or be a die hard Honda person.
Anyhow, I pulled the trigger on a 08 2Lt with performance package. Very, very, very nice car and a huge step forward since previous generation.
A little bit off topic but OnStar is paying off big time for those in the path of hurricane Gustav. According to an AP story GM was getting over 3,000 calls an hour as more than 2 million try to outrun the deadly storm.
It is in times like these that make the annual fee of $299 worth worth every penny. Onstar was not only providing information about clog routes and gas stations but also information about..."hotels with vacancies and even locations of Red Cross emergency shelters."
I own a 2008 Malibu LT and had not owned a domestic car in years. I love the car but I am having one annoying problem. I have had the car about 7 months and have had it at the dealer a few months ago for brake noise and bad rotors. They turned down the rotors and gave it new brakes. Now it is doing it again. I am getting vibration again when I brake and the squeaking noise is back.
My boyfriend said that Chevy brakes and rotors are not the best. I love the car but if this keeps up I may have to consider a trade in. Anyone else having this problem?
as strange as it may sound...check to make sure your lug nuts are properly torqued...I assume your vibration is caused by warped rotors thus they had to be turned....as for the squeaking...when does it happen..when you first brake....hard brake..slow brake...or constant??
I bought my Malibu LTZ in Dec 2007. Within three months the heat on the passenger's seat comes on automatically. I took it to the dealer and they stated it was the module and it was replaced. Within in a month later it was doing the same thing. I took it back and they claim they replaced the switch. Now today I am dropping it back off at the dealership for the third time because the seat is heating up again without the button being pushed. I was trying to see if anyone else has had the same problem.
Having the lug nuts checked is a great idea, if it isn't the lug nuts, I would have them replace the rotors at there cost and put on a fresh pair of brake pads that have beveled edges on them.
A marketing partner would like to speak with Chevrolet Malibu owners who live in the Washington DC and Baltimore areas. If you are pleased with the car, please respond to jwahl@edmunds.com with your daytime contact information.
The squeaking noise is at slow down. The vibration is as well. I just took my Malibu to the dealer for the vibration and squeaking noise today. This time its the rear rotors. I am wondering about another issue I am having. The electronic stability control seems to be overactive. I go up and down a curvy and hilly road everyday on my way to work. It kicks in everytime I hit certain spots (slight dips in the road) and when it does it makes a a terrible noise. According to the dealer this is normal??? Seems a little much to me. Anyone else have this??
Okay, I really like the new malibu! It is really sharp and classy! However, I would only really call a few parts of the new Malibu "new". If you were to look closely, you will see that the have taken many parts from the current Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura. Now, this is not a problem, but rather seeing GM find ways to keep the extra costs down. I almost find an obstacle for the company to not actually get ahead in the real world of competition. If you consistently use the same parts within a car, than you cannot get too far ahead, rather only a few steps in the right direction. But, not quite there. I almost feel like the Malibu is getting there with its looks, but in the test of time, with its cheaper interior materials, that indeed looks great, but with previous reviews saying that they wear down pretty fast.
I think GM needs to downsize and focus on there stronger models. They also really need to focus on their engines, competition has much better engines that are refined, and are "up to date" on their technology within the same engine, also, the G6, malibu, Saturn all share the same engines.The engine does the job, but I don't go "wow" what a great engine when I drive it. Its just fair. I feel like GM just puts parts together, and puts it on the lot, but they are getting better!
This sounds like a bashing session, but looking on Ebay at all new GM cars, and I see they are all the same, but have really not changed anything at all. All the way down to their cheap engine cover in the hood. Its pretty sad when a newer G6 owner says the paint is chipping off their radio in their car. Plastic buttons! Cheap feel all around, that cannot handle the test of time. It is little things like that that make a huge difference. Engine, really makes or breaks a deal for me, and generally GM brand is really falling behind in this category, but looks, well looks are getting much better. lol.
All in all, the new malibu is one amazing car, the suede lined leather seats, dash, are a nice touch. Just a few of my opinions.
So you want each GM model to have a unique engine and everything in interior made uniquely for that model? Where exactly in competition did you see using unique interior parts, engines and etc? Nissan uses the same engines in all Nissan and Infinity models. Even interior part are the same in all its Nissan/Infinity models - it is one of advantages of mass market madufacturers have over dedicated luxury makes like Mercedes/BMW. Honda Accord and Acura TL are basically the same car, even interiors are clones of each other. Even Lexus uses the same interior parts bin in both Toyota and Lexus lines. I see your comments a way of bashing GM no matter what which is not fair - GM is the underdog this time and quality of life in America is on the line. Do you really think that if all products will be imported your quality of life will improve - I am assure you - exactly opposite will happen.
I agree some what, I have been saying all the while on other blogs, it started from the Uplander, know from the Aveo, Malibu, Traverse Impala some what but not yet, the new coming 2010 Cruze all have the same patterned nose. However there drive trains are still one of the best. At least the Vette and the dump trucks have there own looks.
lol. I really think you read into my words a little too much. I am sorry you misunderstood what I said. Honestly, like stated before I am not bashing them at all, I am praising them for finally going in the right direction. But, that does not mean they don't need improvement. My review of the GM name is made of my opinions, and I love cars, I look at many cars, all the time, and these are some of the issues they face. When compared to other brands. To each there own. I also am not saying each car should have their own engine, but rather focus more on the engines that they do have. I feel that have not done this too well, when compared to other models. I usually don't hear many say the buy a Malibu/Saturn/G6 for its engine. I would hear many talk more about the Nissan, Honda, Mazda engines. They at least having something to work with. I feel that if they focused on their engine more, and picked better parts within their cars, than the overall feel and quality would rise, like the plastic, leather, vinyl, knobs, all the way down to the engine, using a 5spd transmission.
To give you a better picture of where my opinions come from, I own an 08 VW Jetta SE(5cyl) and an 08 Pontiac G6(4cyl)The G6 is pretty much like any other GM car, like the Malibu. The Jetta is so much more solid, better parts, better paint, fit and finish, better ride. The engine is AMAZING! With its 6spd transmission. Slam the doors, hang on the door, and its solid. I actually like the G6, its youthful, its fun, and appealing all on its own. I have the leather, sunroof, xm, onstar, remote start, it has everything a $30k passat I test drove. Its a great car. But, when in the Jetta, I still feel like its more upsale, classy ride. So, in a way, I am "bad mouthing" my own car. Its okay, because in about a year, I am trading my G6, for an Accord, TSX, or VW. Lets say I have new appreciate for the american brand, because they honestly think about everything a driver wants.
Bottom line, they need to focus on quality rather than how many cars they can get out on the road. Sorry.
in a 4 cylinder G6 ? I cross shopped the Malibu with the G6 and for '08 leather was not available or alloy wheels in the G6 if you got the base version. Was it a special package ?
BTW, I am loving the suede in the 2LT, I have not been able to use the heated option yet but I am almost looking forward to winter this year.
German engineers are among the best in the world in anything mechanical, you can expect them to design the best engines (but not most reliable of course, ask how they lost the war). But the quality of Jetta - I am not impressed at all. Of course it is still much better than G6, but G6 is not a benchmark eigther. I have multiple friends with Jettas and quality is not good, VW saved money on the various ways and it shows. But still they charge too much for their cheap cars. Regarding engines - GM has the best engines among American Big3. And again in USA engineering is not about perfection - it is about "good enough" to sell, and rest is marketing. But irony is that GM (and hopefully Ford) are finally getting it and people still ignoring.
Yet I agree that Malibu could have less plastic in interior, esp steering wheel and door panels. But Jetta's beutiful interior worns out pretty fast, so good looking (initially) interior does not mean good quality.
Yes, I totally agree with what you stated. Exactly. All companys have different ways to save money, but picking the best sacrifices to do this is the big trick. Some company's continue to battle this quite hard. I guess, I am mainly concerned with the transmission, its 4spd transmission is so annoying in the G6, you want to accelerate slowly or just get some decent speed, and it jumps, there is not that refined slide right into the next speed, but if I feel its because it only has 4 gears, have a 5pd with wide spaced gearing would pull more smoothly. Its seems like its searching to find the best gear. That would be why I ask that they atleast put in a 5spd. Also it would bump the MPG's up a bit, the new malibu has a 5spd option I think, and its MPG is better. My Jetta has 6, but feel the 6 is less used in normal driving. 5spd would be perfect.
---- Yes, I did get the leather on my G6 4cyl, with all the options, its not the base model. Now my dealer has had quite a few of G6's like mine, but I can see that perhaps at other locations that they are not as available. But, the 2008, it is available. I see more cloth 2008 models than anything though. I think its nice the Malibu has the suede inserts on their leather, the carmel color is awesome! The really jazzed up the interior. This is my first car with leather, and I love it.
The Malibu doesn't have a 5 speed. It comes with either a 4spd / 4cyl (LS, some LT1s?), a 6spd / 4cyl (LT2 / LTZ), or a 6spd V6. And the fuel economy has gone down compared to the last generation Malibu, whatever the drivetrain. I attribute the last fact mostly to weight, but in the case of the V6's, to the fact that the 3.6l DOHC makes a LOT more power, but eats more fuel than the relatively frugal 3.5l of the previous cars. Weight still plays a role however, as you can get the 3.5l w/4spd automatic transmission in fleet cars. In that setup, the fuel economy is higher than the 3.6 / 6spd, but lower than the 04-07 3.5/4spd automatic equipped cars.
Ok someone please offer me some insight! I bought my Malibu 2008 (LT 4 cylinder ecotec engine) and now with close to 1200 miles the info center has the MPG at 9.4 which based on my own calculations is not too far from the truth. I have taken it to service and called GM and they came up with a story that I have to wait until the engine breaks in which is at approximately 5000 miles to get optimal mileage. I mean I understand I may not get 20 something until that point but 9 or 10 miles per gallon? I find that outrageous! I use my car for work and sometimes the motor and ac will stay on for 4 to 5 hours, this equals one whole line of the four on the display! I mean I can literally see the gas gauge needle go down everytime I drive short distances and I do not have much of a heavy foot. So does anyone else have that problem or did I have the bad luck of getting a defective car???? Is it even true about the break in period thing? Other than that the car is awesome. :confuse:
Unless you are idling 5 days a week for 5 hours that is way below where you should me. I have only had my LT2 4 cylinder for 600 miles and I am already getting 26 mpg in mixed driving.
Try a tank or short couple of days without idling. Make sure you reset the trip odometer and do it by hand also. That should be a good gauge of your true mpg.
What a bummer! Perhaps you should try a tankful of premium gasoline. If the MPG does not improve then you probably have a lemon. We have an LS with 6,500 miles and we average 17 - 19 MPG in mostly suburban/city driving.
Uh, if you're idling with the AC on for four to five hours, you're burning a LOT of fuel without going anywhere (0 mpg). The more time spent sitting still with the engine running, the lower the fuel economy will come out, as simple as that. City driving has lots of stops, waits, and acceleration to get back up to speed, so if you're doing much city driving and a lot of idling, you could be getting the right type of numbers. This is where hybrids are so nice (uh, without the constant AC use, anyway).
If you are sitting there and just idling and getting 9.4 not bad, the place where I work security has a Jeep Cher. 4x4 210 V6, on a standing still idle for say around 4 hours the trip computer reads 4 mpg. Now if you are doing normal driving for 4 to 5 hours and getting that gas mileage you have a real big problem that will not go away at 5,000 miles. If GM doesn't or cant fix it would nice to let the EPA know about it.
I am just about to pull the trigger on a 2008 Malibu LT2 with the 3.6L/6speed option and power roof.
Wondering if anyone here has this combination can tell me how they like it? Also, just any general comments the V6 in general. It seems to have great pick up and handling.
I have the ruby red 08 Malibu 2LT with the v6 and 6 speed as you posted. I like it alot even though it seems to be cursed (AC stopped working, out of alignment, hailstorm damage, and hit by persons unknown in parking lot). It has been in the body shop for 7 days now so I think I remember driving it. It is very smooth and quiet with about 4,000 miles. I get about 25 mpg in mixed driving to work and home. No trips yet. The electronics are amazing with the OnStar, phone, and driving directions. My Mazda3 was a lot more fun but the 2LT is more luxury but still spirited.
Well, the bummer part of the 4spd transmission, is that it doesn't want to make up its mind of which gear to be in, and its jumpy because of this. I just found out that the new G6 4cyl is going to have a 6spd trans, which will help alot, and its also adds about 2mpgs to it. When I drove an 06 Accord, it did not have this problem of jump around the gears, and it all ran up and down the rpm's really smooth. There wasn't that hesitation that it seems the malibu, and the G6 have on the 4cyl, and even the V6. I am not the only one to have said that too. I am not sure why the GM's engine reserves its power for upper rpm range too, the Accord had a pretty torquey 4cyl in the lower range. The 08 Jetta I own has great power too, certainly more zoomy than the G6 or the malibu 4cyl from experience.
Just bought the car this morning. No roof though, the one that had one got sold. I just realized it has heated seats, my wife is going to love that.
I pick it up later this week. Looking forward to it. The car is replacing a slightly larger Intrigue but I am really giving up very little in terms of interior or trunk space.
Congratulations on the Malibu ! Will your screen name change to sedanman ?
I park next to someone at work that has an '03 Intrigue and I could swear my Malibu looks bigger. It may be that the Malibu is more bulges that increase space.
BTW, I got to use my heated seats for the first time. They are really nice for an achy back. They also allow me to keep the sunroof open on chilly mornings.
Malibu does look a little bigger as it sits higher (as most cars do these days vs. 8 years ago). The Intrigue is about 5 inches wider though and the trunk is a snick bigger also.
Looking forward to getting it and ripping out on the highway tio try out that 3.6. I'll post later tonite if I can.
I own an Intrigue and have driven the Malibu. While I generally like the Malibu and may even end up buying one someday, I immediately noticed the much narrower body upon driving it. I also did not like the much reduced visibility as compared to the Intrigue. The current style trend of high beltlines and cowl made me feel claustrophobic inside the Malibu, and I really appreciated the visibility and light, airy feel of the intrigue when i got back behind the wheel. It's low cowl and beltline really make a difference for the better. The Malibu also felt very tight in the back seat and while the trunk is a good size, the opening is very small.
I wonder if there are any new vehicles these days that still have the low-cowl and beltline design of the Intrigue?
While I generally like the Malibu .... I immediately noticed the much narrower body upon driving it. I also did not like the much reduced visibility as compared to the Intrigue. The current style trend of high beltlines and cowl made me feel claustrophobic inside the Malibu,...The Malibu also felt very tight in the back seat and while the trunk is a good size, the opening is very small.
kplacer, why would you want to buy a Malibu with all these shortcomings? Sounds like sour grapes to me.
Just got back from a month in Montana and Wyoming. Now have over 6000 miles on the Malibu. In highway driving w/the speed control 65 the MPG was 33+. We spent a lot of time in Yellowstone National Park. At park speeds(45MPH) with buffalo jams thrown in we got 28 & 29 MPG. A lot of downhill using the I on the transmission to control speed w/o using the brakes too much. Checked the oil @ 5000 and it was right on. Checked again when we got home still right on. The car was loaded with clothing, fishing gear and food for several weeks. Still no rattles. My only complaint is @ 74 years old, 6'1", 230 lbs. and a little arthritic, it's a bit difficult in and out the drivers side. Anybody know an easy way to get dried bugs off the front end?
BTW, wait for someone to confirm this, as I don't want you to take off paint...you may want to go over to the carwax topics, as I would think that bug removal would be a major topic in "wash and wax"...
But only a Host can tell you where it is, as I can rarely find anything unless someone links it for me...
Ah, to be almost smart, and yet so dumb does bother me sometimes...:):):):):)
How can it be sour grapes? I said that I generally liked the Malibu. Having said that, no vehicle is perfect and those flaws in the Malibu ared the things I don't like about it. There are a number of things I don't like about my Intrigue too -- road & engine noise, colorless interior, equally tight rear seat. I liked a number of things about the Malibu -- the interior finish, the quiet, and the surprising punch from the 4-cylinder engine. I just wish the visibility was better and that is was a little roomier inside.
Yes, absolutely the Intrigue is more airy and has better visibility. I got used to that in about 2 days. Yes the Intrigue is about 5 inches wider, don't notice inside though as the Malibu is very spacious with more leg room than Intrigue. The trunk is not that much smaller either even though it has a smaller mouth. As long as my clubs fit, I'm good.
Over all, I have to say I love my Malibu. The 6-speed transmission and V6 is buttery smooth and so much more powerful. Inside, the car is quite as a vault and I feel like I am in an Audi, very luxurious. Chevy went all out on this car and it shows. My neighbors can't believe it's a Malibu.
Do I miss my Intrigue, very much. It was my everyday for 9 years. Try a V6, it makes a huge difference!
My 08 Malibu always has a strong alcohol smell in the interior after I've left it parked for a while. Once I start it up, it eventually goes away. The smell is very strong, and I'm worried there may be a leak etc. The only clue is that the dash told me to check my gas cap once--I checked it and it was on securely. And no more messages since, but the smell is still there every time. Any ideas?
I wish it had the 6 speed. It has the 4 speed and pulled the hills mostly w/o difficulty. On speed control the tranny occasionally dropped two gears on steep hills at slower speeds(45mph). The result, the RPM jump to over 7K and you are plastered into your seat like an astronaut @ lift off. At regular highway speeds everything was OK. I felt this was pretty good as the car was really loaded with two large adults plus a LOT of stuff.
Is your engine the 2.4, 3.5 or 3.6? In any case, you got great mileage. I drove a 2009 Saturn Aura XR with the 2.4 and 6 speed last night and it was impressive. I ended up however, buying a 2008 Aura XR with the 3.6 last night because my wife thought it was sportier with the dual exhaust and liked the color better. It was her retirement present and I didn't want to insist on the 2.4, but with uncertain future gas prices, the 2.4 was the clear choice. The 2008 Saturn Aura XR was a left over and had an additional $1750 allowance that the Malibu does not have for their 2008's. And the 2008 XR that we bought was a demo and had an additional $730 discount. All told, the car listed for $26,445 and we paid $21,719.
Comments
No shirt or other article of clothing offered!
Otherwise, the car is flawless and given GM's new employee incentive pricing promotion I am tempted to trade in my Avalon for an LTZ.
In stark contrast to my '08 Pontiac G6--that is also usually a very solid car, and on the same platform--that has had a variety of sounds on top of mechanical issues, in less than 2 months. I should have bought a Malibu...for sure.
Reading through an owner's board, it seems like everyone has the same sentiment with the Malibu--and I know of a few people who actually came to the new Malibu seeking a car that was finally whisper quiet and rattle free. Not that a noise can't pop up in anything, but it seems very well done and such things are few and far between. Really the only noise I've seen with any is a bit of something from the rear package shelf--clicking or a light rattle--in both the Aura and a few Malibus. But again, not that common, really.
Again...oh I too should have bought another Malibu. Riding in it compared to my particular G6--which I still think is a quiet and solid car generally--it feels like it cost twice as much.
Oh, and funny enough, you're not the first to do the Accord switch because of such things. I was just reading on the Malibu owner's site--and this wasn't the first--from another guy with a year old Accord he tried to love but just never felt right with it, especially with the noise and all the rattles in his. Guess what? Now in a Malibu and loves it. Nothing is perfect, but this car definitely has a lot right about it.
I had an '07 Malibu rental with 15k on it from Enterprise for a month and it was solid as a tank, even in the freezing winter months, except for a clunking strut up front. Not a single vibe, ever, either. The last gen was known to have a few common noises, but this rental was a further push towards our '08 new purchase.
Any clue as to why another Malibu is on my list--even though my issues aren't the norm for the G6--for a replacement when the lemon repurchase goes through for the Pontiac? Yeah, thought not. It'd be an even easier decision if there was a Malibu coupe...the one thing that gives me pause, ha!
Oy, do I hate creaks and rattles...thankfully the Malibu is extremely well done in this regard, overall.
The prices on employee pricing are pretty attractive so I will need to decide by Tuesday.
Anyhow, I pulled the trigger on a 08 2Lt with performance package. Very, very, very nice car and a huge step forward since previous generation.
It is in times like these that make the annual fee of $299 worth worth every penny. Onstar was not only providing information about clog routes and gas stations but also information about..."hotels with vacancies and even locations of Red Cross emergency shelters."
My boyfriend said that Chevy brakes and rotors are not the best. I love the car but if this keeps up I may have to consider a trade in. Anyone else having this problem?
I just took my Malibu to the dealer for the vibration and squeaking noise today. This time its the rear rotors.
I am wondering about another issue I am having. The electronic stability control seems to be overactive. I go up and down a curvy and hilly road everyday on my way to work. It kicks in everytime I hit certain spots (slight dips in the road) and when it does it makes a a terrible noise. According to the dealer this is normal??? Seems a little much to me. Anyone else have this??
I think GM needs to downsize and focus on there stronger models. They also really need to focus on their engines, competition has much better engines that are refined, and are "up to date" on their technology within the same engine, also, the G6, malibu, Saturn all share the same engines.The engine does the job, but I don't go "wow" what a great engine when I drive it. Its just fair. I feel like GM just puts parts together, and puts it on the lot, but they are getting better!
This sounds like a bashing session, but looking on Ebay at all new GM cars, and I see they are all the same, but have really not changed anything at all. All the way down to their cheap engine cover in the hood. Its pretty sad when a newer G6 owner says the paint is chipping off their radio in their car. Plastic buttons! Cheap feel all around, that cannot handle the test of time. It is little things like that that make a huge difference. Engine, really makes or breaks a deal for me, and generally GM brand is really falling behind in this category, but looks, well looks are getting much better. lol.
All in all, the new malibu is one amazing car, the suede lined leather seats, dash, are a nice touch. Just a few of my opinions.
I also am not saying each car should have their own engine, but rather focus more on the engines that they do have. I feel that have not done this too well, when compared to other models. I usually don't hear many say the buy a Malibu/Saturn/G6 for its engine. I would hear many talk more about the Nissan, Honda, Mazda engines. They at least having something to work with. I feel that if they focused on their engine more, and picked better parts within their cars, than the overall feel and quality would rise, like the plastic, leather, vinyl, knobs, all the way down to the engine, using a 5spd transmission.
To give you a better picture of where my opinions come from, I own an 08 VW Jetta SE(5cyl) and an 08 Pontiac G6(4cyl)The G6 is pretty much like any other GM car, like the Malibu. The Jetta is so much more solid, better parts, better paint, fit and finish, better ride. The engine is AMAZING! With its 6spd transmission. Slam the doors, hang on the door, and its solid. I actually like the G6, its youthful, its fun, and appealing all on its own. I have the leather, sunroof, xm, onstar, remote start, it has everything a $30k passat I test drove. Its a great car. But, when in the Jetta, I still feel like its more upsale, classy ride. So, in a way, I am "bad mouthing" my own car. Its okay, because in about a year, I am trading my G6, for an Accord, TSX, or VW. Lets say I have new appreciate for the american brand, because they honestly think about everything a driver wants.
Bottom line, they need to focus on quality rather than how many cars they can get out on the road. Sorry.
BTW, I am loving the suede in the 2LT, I have not been able to use the heated option yet but I am almost looking forward to winter this year.
Yet I agree that Malibu could have less plastic in interior, esp steering wheel and door panels. But Jetta's beutiful interior worns out pretty fast, so good looking (initially) interior does not mean good quality.
----
Yes, I did get the leather on my G6 4cyl, with all the options, its not the base model. Now my dealer has had quite a few of G6's like mine, but I can see that perhaps at other locations that they are not as available. But, the 2008, it is available. I see more cloth 2008 models than anything though.
I think its nice the Malibu has the suede inserts on their leather, the carmel color is awesome! The really jazzed up the interior. This is my first car with leather, and I love it.
Try a tank or short couple of days without idling. Make sure you reset the trip odometer and do it by hand also. That should be a good gauge of your true mpg.
Wondering if anyone here has this combination can tell me how they like it? Also, just any general comments the V6 in general. It seems to have great pick up and handling.
Thanks in advance.
It is very smooth and quiet with about 4,000 miles. I get about 25 mpg in mixed driving to work and home. No trips yet. The electronics are amazing with the OnStar, phone, and driving directions. My Mazda3 was a lot more fun but the 2LT is more luxury but still spirited.
Just bought the car this morning. No roof though, the one that had one got sold. I just realized it has heated seats, my wife is going to love that.
I pick it up later this week. Looking forward to it. The car is replacing a slightly larger Intrigue but I am really giving up very little in terms of interior or trunk space.
I park next to someone at work that has an '03 Intrigue and I could swear my Malibu looks bigger. It may be that the Malibu is more bulges that increase space.
BTW, I got to use my heated seats for the first time. They are really nice for an achy back. They also allow me to keep the sunroof open on chilly mornings.
Malibu does look a little bigger as it sits higher (as most cars do these days vs. 8 years ago). The Intrigue is about 5 inches wider though and the trunk is a snick bigger also.
Looking forward to getting it and ripping out on the highway tio try out that 3.6. I'll post later tonite if I can.
I wonder if there are any new vehicles these days that still have the low-cowl and beltline design of the Intrigue?
kplacer, why would you want to buy a Malibu with all these shortcomings? Sounds like sour grapes to me.
BTW, wait for someone to confirm this, as I don't want you to take off paint...you may want to go over to the carwax topics, as I would think that bug removal would be a major topic in "wash and wax"...
But only a Host can tell you where it is, as I can rarely find anything unless someone links it for me...
Ah, to be almost smart, and yet so dumb does bother me sometimes...:):):):):)
Over all, I have to say I love my Malibu. The 6-speed transmission and V6 is buttery smooth and so much more powerful. Inside, the car is quite as a vault and I feel like I am in an Audi, very luxurious. Chevy went all out on this car and it shows. My neighbors can't believe it's a Malibu.
Do I miss my Intrigue, very much. It was my everyday for 9 years. Try a V6, it makes a huge difference!