(continued from above)
"The current Malibu has left an award-winning impression and changed the way
people think about Chevrolet. It redefined what an American midsize car could
be," said Rick Scheidt, vice president, Chevrolet Marketing. "This all-new
Malibu delivers on the intangibles of today's Malibu but gives customers even
more: more style, fuel efficiency, content and features, craftsmanship, and
dynamic capabilities rivaling high-end sedans."
Expressive and
Efficient Exterior
"The exterior design of the all-new Malibu carries
DNA from its sister vehicles, the Camaro and Corvette, to bring a sporty
sensibility to the family sedan segment," said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director
for GM exterior design and Chevrolet Brand Champion.
A wider stance,
broad shoulders and an integrated rear spoiler bring a new athleticism to Malibu
and give it a more aggressive appearance. The new Malibu has a 4.5-inch (114 mm)
shorter wheelbase and 62-inch (1,574 mm) front and rear tracks that are more
than 2 inches (51 mm) wider than the model it replaces.
Other exterior
design cues include Chevrolet's dual-port grille, projector HID headlamps,
larger Chevrolet bow-tie badges front and rear, and new Camaro-inspired LED
dual-element taillamps. The look is complemented by a range of large 17-, 18-
and 19-inch wheels.
The new Malibu exterior is anticipated to be
SAE-certified as one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in the segment,
with a coefficient of drag (Cd) rating near Chevrolet Volt's Cd of .280. Because
of Malibu's new shape and design, engineers were able to remove 60 counts of
wind drag compared to the model it replaces.
Malibu also has
electronically controlled and integrated active aero shutters (select models in
North American markets) to improve aerodynamics and enhance fuel economy without
sacrificing the exterior design.
Malibu's active shutter system
automatically closes airflow through the lower intake opening when air intake is
least needed. When closed, the shutter system enhances aerodynamic performance
by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides,
rather than through it. Whether the shutter is open or closed depends on engine
coolant temperature and speed - for example, the shutters open when the car is
traveling up a hill, pulling a trailer, or in hot city driving; the shutters
close at highway speeds when less engine cooling is required.
Chevrolet Malibu LTZ: Review (2/2)
