Eric's Autos: Reviewing the 2013 Chevy Malibu hybrid
Mild hybrid layout is unobtrusive and fuel efficient: Compact car MPGs in a mid-sized package. Nicely finished, inside and out. Comfortable, wide-bottomed seats.
WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD
Gas mileage only slightly better than non-hybrid (and less expensive) versions of the Hyundai Sonata/Kia Optima, Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry.
Comparably priced Camry hybrid offers much better city mileage (43 MPG). Non-ergonomic manual shift control for six-speed automatic transmission.
UNDER THE HOOD
At the time of this review in late April, the Malibu was being sold only in mild hybrid form - "Eco" in Chevy-speak. A 2.4 liter engine with direct injection and variable valve timing is paired with a small electric motor and 15 kW lithium-ion battery pack for extra boost during acceleration and also to provide power for accessories when the car is stationary.
Total combined power output is 182 hp.
A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control function is the standard (and only) transmission in the Malibu Eco.
The combo is good for an 8.7 second 0-60 run and 25 MPG city, 37 MPG on the highway. These are pretty solid numbers - except for one thing: Competitors' numbers are even better.
The non-hybrid (and only $19,795 to start) Hyundai Sonata has 198 hp and still manages a very respectable 24 MPG city, 35 MPG highway - a virtual dead heat with the Malibu Eco. The Sonata's sportier - and slightly less expensive (but functionally identical) Kia cousin, the $19,500 Optima likewise delivers the same nearly-hybrid fuel economy without the hybrid Malibu's much higher sticker price.
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