2013 Chevrolet Malibu Turbo

You’ve got to wonder about GM’s rollout of their all-new Malibu.  They started last winter by introducing the Malibu Eco on its own and waited to market the rest of the non-hybrid lineup until this fall.  In a segment where a number of new models are fighting for press, the Malibu seems to have gotten lost in the hoopla.    But this new turbo offering could change that.  Not because it’s revolutionary – Hyundai’s been offering a turbo in the Sonata for a few years now – and not that it will be a volume model for Chevy, but for those who still want a little kick in the pants power from their family car the Malibu Turbo delivers it in a way the high-mileage 4-cylinder models can’t.  Which isn’t to say this car isn’t reasonably frugal by today’s standards.  Chevy can still stick a 30mpg highway number of it while churning out 259 horsepower.  Premium gas is desired but not required.

The Ecotec 2.0-liter turbo is standard on loftier trims such as the 3LT and like this car, 2LZ.  This is the granddaddy of the Malibu lineup with everything Chevy has to offer, including optional advanced safety features Forward Collision Alert and lane Departure Warning, a premium Pioneer audio system, rear vision camera, push button start and HID headlights.  Another add-on is the Chevy MyLink radiuo with navigation.  Fully loaded with these must-have, upsized 19” wheels MSRP is $34,615.

Looking very much like the Camaro’s dad, the Malibu Turbo takes on a stout, athletic appearance that is both intriguing and stealthy.  (Stand-up driver’s seat.)  And that’s where the Malibu feels decidedly different than the others.  The cabin is tight and the rear seats offer surprisingly little room.  It makes the Sonata seem like a limousine by comparison.  I really like the layout, textures and aesthetic appeal of the cool blue ambient lighting but midsize shoppers may be turned off by the lack of passenger volume.  Too bad someone couldn’t ride in the trunk because that holds a class leading 16 cubic feet.

(Stand-up 3) 0-to-60mph takes 6.4-seconds, as the turbo ramps up for its big push in 2^nd gear.  Smooth and quiet with a dose of dad friendly hustle in its chassis, the Malibu Turbo torque steers a little when flooring it and the transmission gets a little lazy when climbing hills but all told it keeps the driver engaged.  I just wish the manual mode for the 6-speed wasn’t in this awkward spot.

For as much as I enjoyed driving it this week, it’s got a tough fight on its hands with the Sonata Turbo that is larger, lighter, more powerful, faster, more fuel efficient and less expensive…yikes.  This Malibu is a solid effort but has some work to do it if it aspires to lead the turbocharged mainstream.