Chevrolet Malibu (2008)

Overview:

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is redesigned with new styling, more available power, and added safety features. This is the smaller of Chevy's two midsize sedans. It shares its basic design with the Saturn Aura. The 2008 Chevy Malibu is 6 inches longer in wheelbase and 3 inches longer overall than the '07 sedan; the Malibu Maxx hatchback, which rode a longer wheelbase, has been dropped. Trim levels include LS, LT, and LTZ. A gas/electric Hybrid model is also available. LS and LT have a standard 169-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that teams with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed automatic is standard on LTZ 4-cylinders. Optional on the LT and standard on the LTZ is a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6 that teams with the 6-speed automatic. The Hybrid combines the 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor. The sole transmission is a 4-speed automatic. The hybrid system can turn off the gas engine while at a stop, but the car cannot accelerate solely on electric power. No plug-in charging is required. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system (new for '08), curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.

Handling:

• Four-wheel ABS.
• Four disc brakes including two ventilated discs.
• Electronic brake distribution.
• Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management.
• Immobilizer.
• Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel.
• Strut front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs, multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs.

Performance/Specifications:

• 2,393 cc 2.4 liters in-line 4 front engine with 88.0 mm bore, 98.0 mm stroke, 10.4 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder LE5
• Unleaded fuel 87
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
• 16.0 gallon main unleaded fuel tank 13.3
• Power: 126 kW , 169 HP SAE @ 6,400 rpm; 160 ft lb , 216 Nm @ 5,000 rpm.