Chevy Malibu 2016: A Refined and Capable Family Sedan

Chevy Malibu 2016: A Refined and Capable Family Sedan

Written by Kenneth Sawyer, In Cars, Published On
March 9, 2024
, 167 Views

In Short:

  • After a major redesign, the once-memorable midsize sedan—the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu—is now a fashionable and competitive car in its class. With its eye-catching design, roomy cabin, and outstanding feature package, the Malibu seeks to take on well-established competitors like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion.
  • The Malibu’s engine range consists of a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbocharged alternative with greater power, and an incredible gasoline-electric hybrid system inspired by the Chevrolet Volt. The hybrid offers an amazing combined fuel economy of 46 mpg in addition to smooth, quiet, and unexpectedly quick acceleration.
  • The interior of the Malibu is defined by its contemporary, organic dashboard design and its comfortable, adjustable front seats. By extending the wheelbase, the Malibu makes up for its prior model’s lack of rear legroom, making the backseat as spacious as that of rival cars. Even if the materials might not be of very high grade, the equipment and features offered are competitive for the market.
  • The 2016 Malibu is equipped with a number of cutting-edge safety technologies, such as self-parking technology, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and front collision warning. Easy-to-use navigation, 4G LTE Wi-Fi access, an 8-inch MyLink touchscreen, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all features of the infotainment system.

After receiving a great makeover from the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, the midsize car—which was previously unremarkable in its class—became a competitor. After a thorough redesign, Chevy has made one of the biggest generational leaps in recent memory. The 2016 Malibu is a vehicle that aspires to challenge the existing market leaders, such as the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry, with its eye-catching design, roomy inside, and remarkable feature package.

Key Specifications of the Chevy Malibu 2016

SpecificationDetails
Engine Options1.5L Turbo I4 (160 hp, 184 lb-ft), 2.0L Turbo I4 (250 hp, 260 lb-ft), 1.8L I4 Hybrid (182 hp, 277 lb-ft)
Transmissions6-speed automatic (1.5L), 8-speed automatic (2.0L), 2-motor hybrid system
Fuel Economy (EPA-estimated)1.5L: 31 mpg combined, 2.0L: 26 mpg combined, Hybrid: 46 mpg combined
Cargo Volume15.8 cu. ft. (11.6 cu. ft. for Hybrid)
Infotainment7-inch or 8-inch MyLink touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G LTE Wi-Fi
Safety FeaturesAntilock brakes, stability control, multiple airbags, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist

Design and Exterior Features

Chevy Malibu 2016

The sleek, faux-hatchback silhouette of the 2016 Malibu, which is reminiscent of the beauty of premium sedans like the Audi A7, is a real head-turner. This Malibu will draw attention wherever it travels with its bold lines and elegant appearance, especially in the top-of-the-line Premier model with its 19-inch wheels. Chevy has managed to shake off its reputation as the wallflower of past iterations, giving the 2016 model a look and feel worthy of its namesake on the beach.

Interior Comfort and Features

The 2016 Malibu’s interior features a more contemporary and natural dashboard layout, complete with sharper gauges and more opulent climate controls. Although the materials may not be of exceptional quality, the equipment and features that are offered are competitive for the market. Even for taller drivers, the front seats are highly adjustable, and the extra wheelbase has corrected the previous model’s lack of rear legroom, bringing the Malibu’s backseat capacity up to line with that of its main rivals.

Performance and Engine Options

The 2016 Malibu has a variety of engine choices under the hood to accommodate various driving requirements and tastes. While the optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a more powerful 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque for those desiring a livelier driving experience, the basic 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers plenty of low-rpm torque and enhanced fuel economy.

The Malibu Hybrid, which combines an electric and gasoline system sourced from the Chevrolet Volt, might be the best performer, though. The Hybrid boasts an astounding 46 mpg combined EPA-estimated fuel economy while driving like an electric vehicle thanks to its smooth, quiet, and unexpectedly quick acceleration.

Advanced Technology and Infotainment

The infotainment system and sophisticated technology of the 2016 Malibu are excellently equipped. The 8-inch MyLink touchscreen that is offered has colors, clarity, and menu navigation that are similar to those of a tablet. Notable features include mobile 4G Wi-Fi, and it smoothly integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for a full smartphone connection. The infotainment system is absent from the base L trim, but the more expensive trims include an intuitive and snappy interface that makes for a better driving experience.

Safety Features and Ratings Of Chevy Malibu 2016

Chevy Malibu 2016

The 2016 Malibu prioritizes safety with a host of cutting-edge technology and strong safety ratings. Multiple airbags, antilock brakes, stability and traction control, and the OnStar telematics system with automated crash alerts and roadside assistance are all included as standard features. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and intervention, front collision warning with automated braking, and even a self-parking system are among the technologies that can be added with optional safety packages.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

With its hybrid and turbocharged drivetrains, the 2016 Malibu has exceptional fuel economy for its class. The hybrid model, which is among the most fuel-efficient midsize sedans available, gets 46 mpg combined, while the EPA predicts the base 1.5-liter turbo engine to get 31 mpg combined. In addition to saving owners money at the gas pump, this dedication to fuel economy also helps to lessen environmental effects.

Driving Experience and Handling

The Malibu’s adequate turbocharged torque and agile handling offer a pleasing driving experience, even though the base 1.5-liter engine may not have much power. The Malibu is made to feel incredibly speedy and captivating by its eight-speed automated transmission and 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The hybrid, on the other hand, might be the real highlight since it betrays its environmentally friendly status by combining quick acceleration with a smooth, elegant driving experience. Whatever the engine, the 2016 Malibu has improved its composure and skill in corners while maintaining a smooth and controlled ride.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Chevy Malibu 2016

When it comes to the 2016 Malibu, there’s a bit of mystery surrounding its long-term ownership and maintenance costs – but hey, that’s true for any new car, right? Given Chevrolet’s reputation for crafting affordable vehicles, you can probably bet that the running expenses won’t break the bank. Of course, the key to keeping your Malibu going strong for the long haul is giving it the TLC it deserves through regular maintenance and following those recommended service schedules.

Note: The Malibu has stepped up its game from its predecessor, standing tall in the competitive midsize sedan market. While it may not be the absolute best, it’s got some serious charm. Picture this: a sleek design, a spacious cabin that’s practically begging for a family road trip, engines that know how to balance efficiency and power, and tech features that make you wonder how you lived without them. So, if you’re on the lookout for a well-rounded and downright enjoyable family sedan, the Malibu is definitely one to consider.

Pros and Cons of Chevy Malibu 2016

ProsCons
Spacious interior with tall-person-friendly front seatsMediocre acceleration from base 1.5-liter engine
Sporty handling around turnsSome low-speed lurches from transmission
A hybrid version is respectably quick to accelerateSparsely equipped base L trim
Strong brakes
Sharp visuals on an 8-inch touchscreen that is responsive and easy to use

Conclusion

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is like that friend who suddenly transforms themselves and becomes the talk of the town. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement, a significant step up for the Malibu model. In the world of midsize sedans, where competition is fierce, the Malibu confidently struts its stuff. Its design is not just eye-catching; it’s a head-turner. Inside, it’s like stepping into a well-curated space—roomy, luxurious, and just downright comfortable. And oh, the tech features! It’s like the Malibu is not just keeping up with the times but setting the bar. When it comes to performance, the Malibu doesn’t disappoint either. It’s got this winning combo of efficiency and power that makes every drive a joy. Sure, it might not claim the throne of the class, but it’s the kind of car that deserves a serious nod when you’re on the hunt for a family sedan that ticks all the boxes. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience. The 2016 Malibu? Definitely worth a closer look for anyone wanting a car that’s not just practical but a sheer delight to drive.

FAQs

What is the fuel economy of the 2016 Chevy Malibu Hybrid?

The 2016 Malibu Hybrid has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 46 mpg combined (47 city/46 highway), making it one of the most efficient midsize sedans on the market.

Does the 2016 Malibu offer advanced safety features?

Yes, the 2016 Malibu is available with a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and even a self-parking system.

How does the 2016 Malibu’s interior space compare to its rivals?

Thanks to its longer wheelbase, the 2016 Malibu offers competitive rear legroom, putting it on par with primary competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

What infotainment features are available on the 2016 Malibu?

Higher trims of the 2016 Malibu offer an 8-inch MyLink touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity.

How does the 2016 Malibu handle and perform?

While the base 1.5-liter engine may feel underpowered, the optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and the Hybrid powertrain offer surprisingly spirited acceleration and handling, with the Hybrid providing an electric vehicle-like driving experience.

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