The New 2008 Chevy Malibu Steps Up Against the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry

With gas prices on the rise, everyone is looking for an affordable midsize sedan that does not compromise drive and style. Chevrolet's answer to longstanding criticism of the mid-sized Malibu was a complete redesign. Now, Chevy's 2008 Malibu steps into the ring, along with the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, after years of coming in last. The 2008 Chevy Malibu has some work to do to gain confidence with mid-size car enthusiasts, but it could prove to be a worthy competitor.

First Impressions

In the consumer world, first impressions can be everything. Yes, the vehicles may be competitive under the hood, but if you do not like the way it looks you are not going to buy it. Part of the 2008 Malibu's redesign was a new, wider base and more appealing exterior.

The base of the car is now three inches longer with a six-inch-longer wheelbase, which according to Chevrolet, "creates a wheels-at-the-corners stance that enables a smoother, more direct driving experience." What this means for the Malibu is that it is now three to five inches longer than the competing Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

2008 is the year of sleek, distinctive lines in Chevy, Honda, and Toyota mid-size cars. However, what stands out the most about the new Chevy Malibu is the fact that the new design is a 100% improvement over the outgoing model, which failed to make any sort of positive lasting impression. Instead, the Malibu now offers a sleek, wide stance, a new grill, new lights, and other classy, external features.

Under the Hood

This year, the Malibu is using a 2.4-liter Ecotec double-overhead four-cylinder instead of the previously used 2.2-liter Ecotec. In relation to the Honda and Toyota, the Malibu now has just as much power. In addition, the '08 Malibu delivers an estimated 31 mpg in highway driving with a 16 gallon fuel tank.

As of 2008, revised EPA mileage test standards are now tougher on car manufacturers. By joining the exclusive "30 mpg and over" club, the Malibu is included in the ranks with the Accord and Camry, which also boast 31 mpg (as well as an 18.5 gallon tank). With increasing gas prices, this is a must for any commuter.
Interior Appeal

The outgoing Malibu's interior obviously lacked. It lacked in style, comfort, and well, style. To Chevy's credit, the new interior is a vast improvement. Although the longer base does not seem to provide more leg room, the other improvements, like the two-tone interior color schemes, OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, the use of noise-reducing materials, and added features raised it levels above past models.

One negative against the Chevy Malibu is that despite its increase in size, it still lacks on interior room. In comparison to the Camry and Accord, the Malibu has approximately two inches of less front shoulder room, less rear head room, and average front head room and rear/front leg room.

Additional Factors

One of the most common factors, in addition to the above, is the decision to buy domestic or imported. While many people have loyalties to domestic cars, there are just as many consumers, if not more, that stand behind their imported cars.

It is tough to say how the 2008 Chevy Malibu will handle its first year. With such an intense redesign there is ample room for mistakes, as well as the uphill battle Chevy will face for past performances against the Camry and Accord. Still, if Chevy's plan works, there may still be hope for the Malibu. In the words of CarandDriver.com, "Camry beware...."

Sources:

http://www.2008chevymalibu.com/press.html

http://www.chevrolet.com/malibu/#malibu-sedan-1lt

http://automobiles.honda.com/accord-sedan/

http://www.toyota.com/camry/index.html

Howard Walker, "2008 Chevrolet Malibu - Auto Shows." Car and Driver.