2013 Chevrolet Malibu: Good Value Equals Broad American Appeal

Honda and Toyota, two of Japan's leading automakers, are having their difficulties and the domestic auto brands are picking up some of their dropped market share. One of the vehicles that stands to gain traction with mid-size car buyers in the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu sedan. Of note is that the Malibu has been sold by Chevrolet for 35 years now (most other vehicle names by GM have long ago been dropped).

So, what does the five-passenger mid-size 2013 Malibu have to offer?

The engine with its start/stop feature is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that provides 190 hp and 180 ft. lb. of torque. No V6 engine is offered in the Malibu. The transmission is a six-speed automatic including a manual shift mode. The car's 0-60 mph time is in 8.6 seconds.

At the front the Malibu's windshield is well raked and the car has a muscular appearance. It has a large grille and lower air intake with fog lights at the corners. The hood has two pronounced cut lines and headlights are integrated well with the hood. The car's side profile is modern and consists of clean lines with chrome outlining the greenhouse glass. At the back the car continues its solid stance combined with crisp lines. The large taillights are integrated into the trunk. A spoiler lip at the top of the trunk and the dual exhaust that comes out of a black lower inset adds a sporty look. The car's wheelbase measures 107.8 inches.

The interior of this Malibu is upscale and it features contracting colors on the door panels, center console and dash. The fit and finish of the materials and attention to detail are excellent. The gauges are backlit by ice-blue ambient lighting and the radio is operated by a touch screen. The front bucket seats are firm, comfortable and well bolstered. The rear seat is also comfortable and the legroom is generous. The 40/60 split rear seat folds down to increase the trunk's 16.3 cubic foot capacity.

The brakes are discs at all four corners measuring 11.7 inches at the front and 11.5 inches at the rear. The Malibu's 60-0 mph stopping distance is in 122 feet. The tires measure 225 60 16 inch, however, 17, 18 1nd 19 inch units are also available.

The suspension contains of MacPherson struts up front combined with coil springs, gas shock absorbers and an anti-roll bar. The setup at the rear includes multi-links with coil springs, gas shock absorbers and an anti-roll bar.

Standard features on the Malibu include dual-zone air conditioning, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, intermittent wipers, front reading lights, cruise control, outside temperature indicator, audio and cruise control on the steering wheel, Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone, Ipod integration, AM/FM in-dash single CD with MP3 Playback stereo, Sirius XM satellite radio, power door locks, windows and mirrors, two 12 volt power outlets, a truck light, front reading lights, rear defroster, and more.

Safety features on the Malibu include ABS brakes, electronic brake force distribution, traction and stability control, driver and passenger air bags, front side air bags, dual side air bags, daytime running lights, and a post-collision safety system.

On the road the Malibu is very quiet and the chassis feels more solid than the last model. The ride is firm but well dampened. This Malibu can handle back twisty roads or the highway with relative ease. Thus, driving the Malibu is a pleasure rather than a chore.

The fuel rating of the Malibu is reported to be 24 city and 33 mpg highway.

The MSRP of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is expected to be $21,900. It is a solid performer with good looks and good fuel economy. This car represents good value and it should thus have broad American appeal!

View the slideshow to see the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu inside and out!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.