Auto review: 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

Orlando Sentinel 01/04/2009 22:14

When the current version of the Chevrolet Malibu reached the market as a 2008 model, it was an immediate and deserved hit, something General Motors needed in the worst way. Those of us who vote for the North American Car of the Year gave it that honor, and it wasn't really close.

The previous-generation Malibu, though competent, was an also-ran that never seriously challenged the two perennial leaders in the midsized sedan market, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. This new Malibu could, and does, meet the competition head-on.

That said, it's a little surprising that Chevrolet hasn't made more of the fact that the Malibu has a gasoline-electric hybrid version. There are probably several reasons for that: Chevy doesn't make as much profit from hybrids as regular models -- no manufacturer does -- and the base-model Malibu gets pretty good mileage.

GM: 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

And the Malibu Hybrid, compared with most other hybrids, is not as sophisticated. It still has a four-speed automatic transmission, and it is what is referred to as a "mild" or "partial" hybrid: A "full" hybrid can move along on electric power only, until it reaches a speed where the gasoline engine needs to kick in. A partial hybrid such as the Malibu can't do that: The electric motor helps the gasoline engine, but when the car is moving, the gas engine is always on. It does turn off when the Malibu Hybrid is stopped, and then seamlessly restarts when you press the accelerator.

Which is why the Malibu Hybrid is EPA-rated at 26 miles per gallon on the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and the Toyota Camry Hybrid is rated at 33 mpg city, 34 mpg on the highway. The Camry's full hybrid system allows for all-electric mobility in stop-and-go traffic, which saves gas. It also adds about $1,000 to the price tag, compared with the Malibu Hybrid.