CHEVROLET MALIBU & MALIBU MAXX

For Release: Aug. 1, 2004

New for 2005

.	Rear spoiler and rear window wiper/washer on Malibu Maxx – optional on LS, standard on LT
.	Thorax side-impact air bags for front occupants are standard on Malibu LT and Malibu Maxx LT. Available on all other models
.	Exterior Appearance Package for Malibu base sedan includes body-color side moldings, 15-inch alloy wheels and rear spoiler
.	Heated cloth seats available on Malibu sedan and Malibu Maxx LS

Model Lineup

	Engines		Transmission
	Ecotec 2.2L I-4	3500 3.5L V-6	4-spd auto (Hydra-Matic 4T45-E)
Malibu	s	o	s
Malibu LS Malibu Maxx LS	- -	s s	s s
Malibu LT Malibu Maxx LT	- -	s s	s s

Key:
Standard	s
Optional	o
Not available	-

2005 MALIBU: REFINED PERFORMANCE, ADAPTABLE VERSATILITY, AND TAILORED COMFORT

Introduced as a 2004 model, the all-new Malibu and Malibu Maxx made an immediate impression. The clean lines of the Malibu sedan were recognized as crisply tailored and the unique extended sedan design of the Malibu Maxx attracted customers while defying classification.

Malibu delivers the performance and versatility of the best midsize sedans with the dependability and value that customers expect from Chevrolet. Plus, the Malibu adapts to different individuals and lifestyles with two body styles, flexible interiors and a full range of driver personalization features.

From the B-pillar forward, the Malibu sedan and Malibu Maxx are identical. Rearward of the B-pillar, the two differ substantially. The five-door Malibu Maxx rides on a wheelbase that is 6 inches (15.2 cm) longer than the Malibu sedan, while its overall length is a half-inch (1.3 cm) shorter. The result is a spacious interior for a car its size.

Performance

"Anyone who has driven the previous version of the Malibu will immediately notice a firmer, quieter, more linear feel in the ride and handling of the new generation," said Gene Stefanyshyn, vehicle line executive for the Malibu and Malibu Maxx. Malibu's dynamic performance and refined composure starts with its foundation - the General Motors Epsilon global architecture. The Malibu and its Malibu Maxx stablemate were the first North American applications of the Epsilon architecture, which also provides the foundation for the Saab 9-3, Opel Vectra and the forthcoming Pontiac G6.

The powertrain choices for the Malibus help bring out the best of the new architecture. The Malibu sedan gets power and fuel efficiency from its standard 144 horsepower (107 kw), 2.2L, dual-overhead-cam Ecotec four-cylinder engine. The LS and LT models of the Malibu and Malibu Maxx feature the new GM 3500 3.5L, overhead-valve V-6, with 200 horsepower (149 kw). All Malibus come with the smooth-shifting Hydra-Matic 4T45-E four-speed electronic automatic transmission. Combined with the broad torque curve of Malibu’s four- and six-cylinder engines, the result is strong performance and best-in-class fuel economy.

An independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a four-link independent rear suspension underpin Malibu. All Malibu models are equipped with power brakes and electric power steering (EPS) with variable assist for low- and high-speed steering maneuvers.

In addition to the vibration-reducing properties of the Epsilon architecture, Malibu has a host of noise-elimination features, including a cast foam-rubber barrier covering the dash panel; a modular noise-dampening plate in the dash panel; a fiberglass-composite hood insulator; and front and rear “glove-fit” carpet floor modules.

High standards

Every Malibu features a high level of standard equipment. A power driver’s seat height adjuster, tilt/telescoping steering column, CD-equipped audio system, power windows, door locks and mirrors are standard on all Malibus. Power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals and manual lumbar support are standard on LS and LT models, and available on the base Malibu sedan. Many of these features are not standard, or even available, in other cars in the Malibu’s class.

Malibu is also the first car in its class to offer an optional factory-installed remote vehicle starter system, allowing the driver to get a head start on the car’s interior heating and cooling from a range of about 200 feet (61 m).

Genuine versatility

Malibu can be a cargo carrier by day and a refined, comfortable people-hauler by night, or the other way around. Use of space is the key. In the sedan body style, Malibu is roomy, measuring out at 101 cubic feet (2,871L) of space for passengers. With a 60/40-split/folding rear seat and a fold-flat front passenger seat, a variety of items will fit fully inside Malibu, including long items such as ladders and snow skis.

The rear seats in Malibu Maxx slide nearly 7 inches (17.8 cm) fore and aft and are split 60/40 not just in the seat back, but also the seat cushion, to further increase comfort. The rear seat backs recline, allowing different sized rear passengers to tailor their seating position in a similar way a front-seat passenger can. The Malibu Maxx has a generous 106 cubic feet (3,002L) of passenger space and a luxurious 41 inches (104 cm) of legroom with the seats pushed all the way back – legroom comparable to a full-size domestic luxury sedan.

The Malibu Maxx also features a standard fixed-rear glass skylight that provides a spacious, open atmosphere over the rear seats. Both driver- and passenger-side rear occupants have the option of opening or closing a standard split/retractable shade to control the amount of light coming through the skylight.

The Malibu Maxx’s rear cargo area features a standard power outlet and a multi-functional cargo panel with four positions for two-tier loading. The cargo panel also can be positioned as a table for picnics or tailgate parties. Hooks on the cargo panel help secure smaller items, and cargo nets on each side of the cargo area, also unique to the Malibu Maxx, help keep items from sliding around.

Comfort for rear-seat passengers for all Malibu models is enhanced with a heating/air conditioning system designed for their needs. In addition to airflow to the feet, two vents on the center of the dash – dubbed “turbo blasters” by the car’s engineers – are designed to pour generous amounts of heated or cooled air directly into the back seat.

Three levels of audio system offerings are available on the Malibu, including an uplevel radio with an in-dash, six-CD changer, six speakers (including two tweeters on the A-pillar), automatic volume and tone controls, and XM Satellite Radio compatibility (continental U.S. only). Malibu Maxx adds the option of a rear-seat audio system or a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system, both complete with wireless headphones.

Style

Malibu features crisp, clean lines that highlight a space-efficient and aerodynamic exterior. Crystalline-like headlamp lenses and a chrome front bar and gold Chevy bowtie highlight these contemporary lines. Compared with its predecessor, the new Malibu has a slightly wider stance and a much more substantial front end. The exterior is a fresh direction that honors Chevrolet’s heritage while allowing European influence in execution.

The interior features a Chevrolet-signature dual cockpit design with luxury features and an overall sense of quality and attention to detail. Seating in the Malibu has the look and feel of an upscale European sedan with comfortable, firm foam padding to give occupants a solid, secure ride that matches the car’s nimble performance.

Safety and strength

Engineers made extensive use of high-strength steel in strategic areas of the body and developed energy-absorbing front and rear crush zones to help obtain impressive structural performance for safety.

OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls using a powerful three-watt analog system and external antenna for greater reception. 

The OnStar service available on the 2005 Malibu and Malibu Maxx also includes the Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to 911 centers to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. ACCN does not require air bag deployment.

Other safety features in the Malibu include:

# # #

Contact:
Chevrolet Communications
Noreen Pratscher
Office: (313) 667-0134
fax : (313) 667-4007
E-mail: noreen.pratscher@gm.com

GM Product Communications
Anne Santori
Phone: 586-575-8943
Fax: 586-575-6090
E-mail: anne.santori@gm.com

GM of Canada Communications
Richard James
Phone: 905-644-1804
Fax: 905-644-3873
E-mail: richard.james@gm.com

GM de Mexico Communications
Juan Bernardo Urrutia
Phone: 011-525-6250-3046
E-mail: juanbernardo.urrutia@gm.com

SPECIFICATIONS

(See General Motors of Canada for Canadian product differences.)

Overview

Models:	Malibu, Malibu Maxx
Body style / driveline:	5-passenger sedan & extended sedan, unitized body and chassis, front engine, front-wheel drive
Construction:	2-sided galvanized steel on exterior panels (except roof)
EPA vehicle class:	midsize car
Manufacturing location:	Kansas City, Kan.
Key competitors:	Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Dodge Stratus, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6

Engines                     

	Ecotec 2.2L I-4 (L61)	3500 3.5L V-6 (LX9)
Application:	std on base sedan Malibu	std on LS, LT
Type:	2.2L DOHC I-4	3.5L V-6
Displacement (cu in / cc):	134 / 2189	213 / 3500
Bore & stroke (in / mm):	3.39 x 3.72 / 86 x 94.6	3.70 x 3.31 / 94 x 84
Block material:	cast aluminum	cast iron
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder	OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition system:	electronic direct	electronic direct
Fuel delivery:	sequential multi-port fuel injection	sequential multi-port fuel injection
Compression ratio:	10:1	9.8:1
Horsepower (hp / kw @ rpm):	144 / 107 @ 5600	200 / 149 @ 5400
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	155 / 210 @ 4000	220 / 298 @ 3200
Recommended fuel:	87 octane	87 octane
Maximum engine speed (rpm):	6500	6200
Exhaust system:	stainless steel with aluminized coating on the muffler and tailpipe	stainless steel with aluminized coating on the muffler and tailpipe
Emissions controls:	close-coupled catalytic converters; Quick-Sync 24x ignition system; returnless fuel rail; fast-response O2 sensor	close-coupled catalytic converters; Quick-Sync 24x ignition system; returnless fuel rail; fast-response O2 sensor
Estimated fuel economy:
MPG (city / hwy / combined)	24 / 34 / 29	sedan: 23 / 32 / 27 Maxx: 22 / 30 / 26
MPIG (city / hwy / combined)	29 / 43 / 34	sedan: 27 / 42 / 32 Maxx: 27 / 42 / 32
L/100km (city / hwy / combined)	9.8 / 6.6 / 8.4	sedan: 10.5 / 6.7 / 8.8 Maxx: 10.5 / 6.7 / 8.8

Transmission

Type:	Hydra-Matic 4T45-E 4-speed automatic w/overdrive, front-wheel drive
Gear ratios (:1):
First:	2.96
Second:	1.62
Third:	1.00
Fourth:	0.68
Reverse:	2.14
Final drive ratio:	3.63:1 (2.2L), 3.05:1 (3.5L)

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	independent MacPherson coil-over-strut strut (gas pressurized), coil springs, tubular stabilizer bar, full frame isolated front chassis cradle
Rear:	independent 4-link design, twin-tube gas shock, dual rate (non-linear) mini block coil spring, solid stabilizer bar, adjustable toe and camber
Steering type:	electric, power-assisted variable-speed rack-and-pinion
Steering ratio:	15.9:1
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:	3.1 turns
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):	36 / 10.9 sedan, 37.6 / 11.4 Maxx

Brakes

Type:	base: power-assisted front disc, rear drum LS/LT: power-assisted front disc, rear disc anti-lock braking system and traction control with Dynamic Rear Proportioning and active wheel-speed sensors std on LS/LT, opt on base)
Front rotor (diameter x thickness, in / mm):	10.87 x 1.02 / 276 x 26 sedan; 11.65 x 1.02 / 296 x  25.9; vented discs
Rear drum (diameter x thickness, in / mm): Rear rotor (diameter x thickness, in / mm):	9.05 x 1.57 / 230 x 40 (drum) 10.63 x 0.55 / 270 x 14 (disc)
Total swept area (sq in / sq cm):	front: 224 / 1444 sedan, 208.3 / 1343 Maxx; rear: 88.6 / 572 (drum) 97.2 / 627 (disc)

Wheels/Tires

	Malibu	Malibu Maxx
Wheel size and type:	base: 15-inch x 6.5-inch steel
	LS: 15-inch x 6.5-inchaluminum, machine-faced or painted	LS: 16-inch x 6.5-inch aluminum machine faced
	LT: 16-inch x 6.5-inch aluminum, machine-faced	LT:  16-inch x 6.5-inch aluminum styled
Tires:	base: P205/65R15, compact spare tire	P215/60R16 all season blackwall, compact spare tire
	LS/LT: P205/60R15 or P215/60R16 blackwall touring tires, compact spare tire

Dimensions

Exterior	Malibu	Malibu Maxx
Wheelbase (in / mm):	106.3 / 2700	112.3 / 2852
Overall length (in / mm):	188.3 / 4783	187.8 / 4770
Overall width (in / mm):	69.9 / 1776	69.8 / 1773
Overall height (in / mm):	57.5 / 1461	58.1 / 1476
Track (in / mm):	front: 60 / 1524; rear: 59.3 / 1506	front: 60 / 1524; rear: 60.2 / 1529
Minimum ground clearance (in / mm):	6.1 / 154	6.1 / 154
Curb weight (lb / kg):	Base: 3174 / 1440 LS: 3297 / 1495 LT: 3315 / 1504	LS: 3458 / 1569 LT: 3476 / 1577
Weight distribution (% front / rear):	62 / 38	60 / 40

Interior	Malibu Front	Malibu Rear	Malibu Maxx Front	Malibu Maxx Rear
Seating capacity:	2	3	2	3
Head room (in / mm):	39.6 / 1006	37.6 / 955	39.4 / 1001	39.4 / 1001
Leg room (in / mm):	41.9 / 1064	38.5 / 978	41.9 / 1064	41 / 1042
Shoulder room (in / mm):	56.7 / 1440	56.1 / 1425	56.7 / 1440	55.5 / 1410
Hip room (in / mm):	53.2 / 1351	52.4 / 1331	53.5 / 1359	52.4 / 1331

Capacities                                         

	Malibu	Malibu Maxx
EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L):	101.4 / 2871	106 / 3002
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):	116.8 / 3307	128.8 / 3647
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): With second-row seat folded down (Maxx):	15.4 / 436        –	22.8 / 646 41 / 1161
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):	1000 / 454	1000 / 454
Fuel tank (gal / L):	16.3 / 61	16.4 / 62
Engine oil (qt / L):	5.0 / 4.7 (I4), 4.5 / 4.3 (V-6)	4.5 / 4.3
Cooling system (qt / L):	13.6 / 12.9	13.6 / 12.9