Click Here to Comment at The Motor Portal Blog!! Chevrolet Malibu LTZ Offered With Segment-Exclusive Four-Cylinder/Six-Speed Automatic Powertrain   DETROIT – Chevrolet’s popular, award-winning 2008 Malibu offers an expanded range of customer choices this spring, with an efficient four-cylinder/six-speed automatic combination offered on LTZ models. A 2.4L Ecotec engine is partnered with a 6T40 transmission to deliver a great balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The EPA-estimated fuel economy for this combination is 22 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway.     “This new Malibu LTZ model answers customers’ calls for a premium-equipped car with an efficient, four-cylinder engine,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “With this new model, the Malibu lineup offers an unmatched range of powertrains, technology and amenities, along with the great styling that has helped make it a runaway success since the first ’08 model rolled off the line.” The new Malibu LTZ model has a MSRP of $26,545 (including a $650 destination charge). It joins an already diverse lineup of Malibu models, ranging from the value-driven LS to powerful V-6 LT and LTZ models, as well as the unique, fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid. The Malibu LTZ with the 2.4L/six-speed powertrain is distinguishable on the exterior with unique, 17-inch Chrometec wheels and a single, chrome exhaust outlet. Inside is the same upscale interior as V-6-powered LTZ models. “Matching the 2.4L engine with a six-speed delivers a lively driving experience that is unlike any other four-cylinder in the segment,” said Peper. “The unique performance characteristics of the six-speed transmission enhance the feeling of a quieter, more refined driving experience.” Powertrain details The 2.4L Ecotec engine is renowned for its performance and efficiency. It uses variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel economy. The engine is rated at 169 horsepower (126 kW), which is comparable to the four-cylinder engines from competitors such as the Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata. None of those competitors, however, offers a six-speed automatic with their four-cylinder engine. Matched with the 2.4L engine is the Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed transmission. It is part of a new family of six-speed automatics that GM committed to developing only a few years ago. Clutch-to-clutch technology and other high-tech features are employed to maximize its performance while simultaneously minimizing its overall size. A wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio enables strong launch acceleration, while carefully spaced “steps” between the gears balance performance and fuel economy. The driver can manually tap up or tap down through the gears for more control. The efficiency benefit of the six-speed automatic comes through the lower operating speed of the 2.4L engine. This reduces fuel consumption and contributes to quieter, more isolated operation. The feeling of performance is heightened with the four-cylinder/six-speed automatic combination, too, as the engine can always operate close to the optimum speed. Style and refinement Malibu LTZ comprises a distinctive package of style, features and attention to detail. It carries a strong stance and bold proportions, with front fog lamps and clear-lens LED-lit taillamps unique to the model. Precise details, including minimized panel gaps, a tight wheel-to-body relationship and select use of chrome trim, reinforce the Malibu’s refinement. Inside, the Malibu LTZ is offered with two-tone trim combinations, including Ebony and Brick and Cocoa and Cashmere. The cabin also features black-chrome accents, a specific instrument layout and unique, two-tone leather seating surfaces. Heated seats are standard. The interior’s attention to detail is highlighted by an ergonomic design and premium materials that convey quality and value. An integrated, flowing instrument panel features a Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit design, with prominent gauges backlit in blue. Ambient lighting in areas such as the overhead console and door-pull pockets enhances the Malibu’s inviting feel. Malibu LTZ also comes with Turn-by-Turn navigation provided by OnStar, standard XM Satellite Radio and the premium amplified eight-speaker audio system. Chevrolet Malibu Named 2008 North American Car of the Year DETROIT - For the second consecutive year, a car from General Motors Corporation has taken top honors in the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) awards, as announced today at the opening of the North American International Auto Show. The Chevrolet Malibu was chosen by this year's media jury from a field of 15 cars and 13trucks. GM vehicles captured four of the final six candidate spots for the awards; last year the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Silverado were winners.  "This award is the result of our intensive efforts to put a renewed emphasis on design, execution and craftsmanship into our cars and trucks," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman.  "We're honored that both automotive journalists and consumers are recognizing our efforts.  The fact we had four of the six finalist vehicles is more than we could have hoped for."  The NACTOY awards are given annually by prominent automotive journalists who evaluate the vehicles on factors including value for the dollar, innovation, handling, performance, safety and driver satisfaction. This year's jury consisted of 45 automotive journalists from throughout the United States and Canada. The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers strong performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in Chevrolet's global signature design. A broad range of detailed, well-appointed and efficient models is offered, including a fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid model.  Sales of the new Malibu began last November. "Our goal with the 2008 Malibu was to give customers a stylish, uncompromising package that can challenge even the most formidable competitors in the midsize segment," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Customers are getting that message, because the new Malibus are selling faster than we can put them on dealers' lots." Starting at $19,995 in the U.S., the Malibu had a 99-percent increase in retail sales this past December.  The 2008 Malibu was designed and engineered for sale not only in the U.S., but also in Canada, Mexico, Israel and the Caymen Islands. Other 2008 Model Awards for Malibu: In early December, Car and Driver magazine published its "10 Best Cars" for 2008, and the Malibu, along with the Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Corvette, all made the list.  The Malibu was also chosen by Kelley Blue Bookas "Best Redesigned Vehicle for 2008."       For release: Aug. 1, 2007 2008 CHEVROLET MALIBU Vehicle Highlights All-new refined and contemporary exterior with new grille design that represents the global face of Chevrolet Upscale refined interior design with available two-tone trim; gauges with Chevrolet blue backlighting Standard head-curtain side air bags and front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags Refined and technically advanced family of economic DOHC powertrains, including a 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder and a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing Six-speed automatic transmission available with both four-cylinder and V-6 engines – a segment exclusive for four-cylinder engines (interim introduction) Hybrid model Four-wheel independent suspension and longer wheelbase that deliver a more controlled, satisfying and confident driving experience Five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty Model Lineup   Engines Transmissions   Ecotec 2.4L VVT I-4 3.6L V-6 VVT 4-speed automatic 6-speed automatic Malibu LS s – s – Malibu LT s o s o Malibu LTZ s o – s Malibu Hybrid s – s – Key   Standard s Optional o Not available – 2008 CHEVROLET MALIBU: THE NEW FACE OF CHEVY CHALLENGES THE SEGMENT’S BEST The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers great performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in a clean, tailored design that carries the global face of Chevrolet. A broad range of detailed, well-appointed and efficient models is offered, including a fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid model. “The 2008 Malibu rewrites Chevrolet’s midsize car strategy, offering a stylish, uncompromising package that stacks up against the most popular competitors,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “We know the competition is very good, and this new Malibu has the goods – both tangible and intangible – to assert a leadership position in the segment and re-affirm Chevrolet’s commitment to expressive cars.” The new Malibu is based on GM’s global midsize platform, which serves as the foundation for a strong body structure, precise build quality and refined driving dynamics. It is more than three inches (76 mm) longer than the current model, with a six-inch-longer (162 mm) wheelbase. These proportions create a wheels-at-the-corners stance that enables a smoother, more direct driving experience. Malibu is offered in several well-equipped trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ – all with standard head-curtain side air bags and front-seat thorax air bags, OnStar Gen 7 with remote diagnostics, and XM Satellite Radio. StabiliTrak stability control is standard on LT and LTZ models. Performance comes from a family of powerful dual-overhead cam four- and six-cylinder engines, including a 169-horsepower (126 kW)* 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder engine and a 252-horsepower 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard with the V-6 and will be available later in the model year with the 2.4L four-cylinder LTZ – a segment first. The Malibu Hybrid uses a unique electric motor/generator mated to a 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. “ Malibu is the car our customers have been looking for,” said Peper. “There is more style and content on the new Malibu than any other competitor in the segment.” Highlights of the redesigned 2008 Malibu include: All-new refined and contemporary exterior with new grille design that represents the global face of Chevrolet Twin round taillamps Upscale interior design with available two-tone leather trim; gauges with Chevrolet blue backlighting Standard head-curtain side air bags and front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags Remote vehicle starting (standard on 2LT and LTZ; available on 1LT) Available 110-volt household-type AC power outlet Four-wheel independent suspension and longer wheelbase that deliver a more controlled, satisfying and confident driving experience Family of large wheels, including 18-inch ultra-bright polished wheels on LTZ Standard tire pressure monitoring system. The 2008 Malibu is backed by GM’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, giving customers added peace of mind during their ownership experience. Design With its strong stance and bold proportions, the 2008 Malibu has a profile that reinforces its substantial feel. Clean, pure lines and wheels pushed to the corners, as well as a visually lower, yet longer, greenhouse and a shorter deck suggest motion, agility and attitude. The body sides are clean and elegant, interrupted only by distinctive, wheel-oriented forms that communicate an aggressive, stable stance and a rear profile with Corvette cues that connects to Chevrolet’s rich performance heritage. The Malibu’s grille is characteristic of the global face of Chevrolet cars and the twin round taillamps are Chevrolet cues, as well. LTZ models are distinguished by front fog lamps and clear-lens LED-lit taillamps. The design elements are complemented with precise details, including minimized panel gaps, a tight wheel-to-body relationship and select use of chrome trim. V-6 models also receive dual chrome exhaust outlets. The interior’s attention to detail matches the Malibu’s exterior, with an ergonomic design using premium materials that convey quality and value. The integrated, flowing instrument panel features a Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit design, with prominent gauges backlit in blue, and metallic or wood grain accents. The new Malibu has greater storage, too, with thoughtful features that maximize utility, including a deep center console with a sliding cover that opens to accommodate larger items. Also standard is an auxiliary in-dash storage compartment on the instrument panel for sunglasses, CDs and other items. An available rear power center provides a household-style 110-volt AC power outlet. Quiet, thoughtful environment Malibu ’s strong structure serves as the foundation for an exceptionally quiet environment. Along with the robust chassis, which minimizes vibration and noise, the body construction uses noise-reducing materials, such as liquid spray-on sound deadener, laminated steel and composite wheel liners, to deliver one the segment’s quietest, most refined driving experiences. Laminated “quiet glass” also contributes to a quiet environment. For the first time, the Malibu is offered with two-tone trim combinations, including Ebony and Brick and Cocoa and Cashmere. There is also an all-Ebony combination, accented with a distinctive wood grain element that offers a unique, upscale appearance. Malibu 2LT models feature standard suede like-trimmed seats and LTZ models receive distinctive, black-chrome accents, a specific instrument layout and unique, two-tone leather seating surfaces. Heated seats are standard on 2LT and LTZ. Ambient lighting in areas such as the overhead console and door-pull pockets enhances the Malibu’s inviting feel. The overhead console-mounted LED floodlights provide subdued lighting to the center console area between the front seats. Malibu also comes with a great standard stereo system with standard XM Satellite Radio and offers a range of upgrades, including a premium eight-speaker, 210-watt sound system that is standard on LTZ and available on 2LT. Driving experience Malibu ’s long, 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase and wheels-at-the corner stance enable precise, responsive ride and handling characteristics, providing a trait that’s rare to the segment: driving satisfaction. The balanced, four-wheel independent suspension system features a MacPherson strut front suspension design and multilink rear suspension. The front suspension uses aluminum control arms, which reduce unsprung mass impacts over bumps for a smoother ride. A front, direct-acting stabilizer bar provides a more immediate feel to steering inputs. The rear suspension also features a direct-acting stabilizer bar, as well as monotube or twin-tube shock absorbers, depending on the model. The front and rear suspension systems are tuned for each powertrain combination, delivering tailored driving characteristics for all models. Hydraulic ride bushings and body control damping measures enhance the connected-to-the-road driving feel while supporting a comfortable ride. GM’s StabiliTrak stability control system is standard on LT and LTZ models. It uses sophisticated vehicle sensors tied to the anti-lock braking system to help the driver maintain control during certain maneuvers. The new panic brake assistance feature provides full braking power when a panic-braking event is detected. This can reduce the braking distance, providing more control in helping to avoid a crash. Steering response is precise and immediate, thanks to tuned steering systems designed for each model. Malibu models equipped with the 2.4L engine use a variable electric power-assist steering system, while V-6 models employ a hydraulic-assisted steering system. A family of 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels is offered with Malibu, all tailored with a tight wheel-to-body relationship. LS models come with 16-inch painted trim wheels; 1LT models come with 17-inch chrome trim wheels, 2LT models have 17-inch aluminum wheels and LTZ models are fitted with 18-inch aluminum ultra-bright-finish wheels. The suspension systems are mounted to a robust chassis and integrated body structure that features a safety cage design and strategic placement of high-strength steel for outstanding structural integrity. The strong chassis and body structure enable more precise mounting of the suspension systems, a design trait that enabled engineers to focus on finer degrees of suspension tuning. A safety cage construction built into the Malibu’s body structure is complemented with reinforced rocker sections, as well as a reinforced front body hinge pillar and roof pillars that were designed to improve impact protection. A magnesium cross-car beam unites the lower sections of the A-pillars. This helps protect passengers in side-impact crashes and serves as a solid foundation for the instrument panel. High-strength steel is used in strategic areas to augment overall structural integrity. Powertrain The 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder engine, which receives a new catalytic converter system with slightly elevated backpressure for ’08, delivers an SAE-certified 169 horsepower (126 kW) and 160 lb.-ft. (217 Nm) of torque. EPA fuel economy is rated at an impressive 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The 2.4L Ecotec DOHC will be offered with all trim levels. LS and LT models are backed by a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. Malibu LTZ models with the 2.4L engine are equipped with a new Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic – the only four-cylinder/six-speed automatic combination in the segment. The available 3.6L V-6 VVT is a sophisticated, all-aluminum DOHC engine that uses variable valve technology to produce 252 horsepower (188 kW)* while delivering impressive EPA fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 26 mpg in highway driving. It is mated with a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission. The Malibu’s six-speed transmissions enable a strong balance between performance and fuel efficiency, with the six forward gears offering optimized performance at all rpm levels, as well as reduced rpm at highway cruising speeds. Lower rpm can enhance fuel economy and reduce cabin noise. The six-speed transmissions also feature TAPshift, which enables the driver to shift manually with steering wheel-mounted controls. All Malibu powertrain combinations are supported with GM’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Malibu Hybrid details The ’08 Malibu Hybrid is equipped with the GM Hybrid system, which reduces fuel consumption fuel via sophisticated controls and a unique electric motor/generator mated to a 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. This innovative hybrid powertrain is rated at 164 horsepower (122 kW)* at 6400 rpm* and 159 lb.-ft. (215 Nm) of peak torque at 5000 rpm.* While maintaining the vehicle’s sporty feel, the GM Hybrid system seamlessly reduces fuel consumption by: Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling Restarting the engine promptly when the brake pedal is released Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration Capturing vehicle kinetic energy during deceleration through regenerative braking to charge the advanced nickel metal hydride battery Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient The new GM Hybrid system provides additional power, when required, during launch from the electric motor/generator. At wide-open throttle, such as during a passing maneuver, the system enhances acceleration by using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine and achieve maximum power. The GM Hybrid system also is designed to automatically maintain full accessory functionality when the vehicle is stopped, including climate control, so that hybrid operation is transparent to the driver and passengers. The Malibu Hybrid delivers an appropriate balance between fuel economy and cabin comfort with an air conditioning system with two selectable modes. The Hybrid A/C mode favors more fuel efficient performance by limiting the draw on the hybrid powertrain, while the normal mode provides maximum passenger comfort in hot climates and enhances defogging performance. Malibu Hybrid models are easily distinguished at a glance, thanks to specific exterior appointments and badges. Inside, a unique gauge cluster provides information and feedback about the Hybrid powertrain’s operation. Safe and secure The 2008 Malibu has a comprehensive roster of standard and available features that helps protect occupants before, during and after a crash. They include: Dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System Head curtain side-impact air bags (front and rear outboard seats) Front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags \ Front safety belt pretensioners LATCH child safety seat anchors Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS Traction control StabiliTrak stability control system with panic brake assistance (LT and LTZ) Tire pressure monitoring system Projected five-star government safety rating. All 2008 Malibu models come standard with OnStar Gen 7, which features advanced automatic crash notification, remote diagnostics, monthly status report and available Turn-By-Turn Navigation. It is the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar. Turn-by-Turn allows consumers to talk to a live adviser, who in turn sends complete step-by-step directions to customers' vehicles through their OnStar system. These audio directions automatically play through the vehicle’s stereo as needed, triggered by the OnStar system’s GPS capabilities. This enables drivers to be guided to their destination while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. *SAE certified. # # # Contact: Nancy Libby Chevrolet Communications Phone: 313-667-2553 E-mail: nancy.libby@gm.com Anne Santori Product Development Communications Office: 586-575-8943 E-mail: anne.santori@gm.com GM of Canada Communications Tony LaRocca Phone: 905-644-1804 Fax: 905-644-3873 E-mail: tony.larocca@gm.com Antonio Sanchez Jimenez Gerente de Relaciones Públicas y Comunicación General Motors de Mexico Office: 011-5255-5901-3042 E-mail: angelantonio.sanchezjimenez@gm.com SPECIFICATIONS (See GM of Canada section for Canadian product differences.) Overview Models: Chevrolet Malibu LS, LT, LTZ and Hybrid Body style / driveline: sedan / front-engine, front-wheel drive Construction: body-frame integral EPA vehicle class: midsize car Manufacturing location: Fairfax Assembly Plant, Kansas City, Kan. Key competitors: Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata Engines   Ecotec 2.4L VVT (incl. Hybrid) 3.6L V-6 DOHC w/VVT Displacement (cu in / cc): 146 / 2393 217 / 3564 Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.46 / 3.85 / 88 x 98 3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6 Block material: cast aluminum aluminum with cast-in bore liners Cylinder head material: cast aluminum cast aluminum Valvetrain: dual overhead camshafts; 4 valves per cylinder; variable valve timing dual overhead camshafts; 4 valves per cylinder; variable valve timing Fuel delivery: sequential port fuel injection sequential port fuel injection Compression ratio: 10.4:1 10.2:1 Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 169 / 126 @ 6400* 164 / 122 @ 6000 (est) - Hybrid 252 / 188 @ 6300* Torque (lb-ft / Nm): 160 / 217 @ 4500* 159 / 220 @ 4400 (est) - Hybrid 251 / 340 @ 3200* Recommended fuel: regular unleaded regular unleaded Max. engine rpm (fuel cutoff): 6600 6900 (Hybrid) 6900 Emissions controls: close-coupled catalytic converter; returnless fuel rail; fast-response oxygen sensor dual close-coupled converters; returnless fuel rail, 2 pre- and 2 post- oxygen sensors EPA estimated fuel economy (city / hwy): 22 / 30 24 / 32 (Hybrid) 17 / 26 Transmission s   Hydra-Matic 4T45 4-speed automatic transmission Hydra-Matic 6T40 6-speed automatic transmission Hydra-Matic 6T70 6-speed automatic transmission Gear Ratio (:1)       First: 2.95 4.58 4.48 Second: 1.62 2.96 2.87 Third: 1.00 1.91 1.84 Fourth: 0.68 1.45 1.41 Fifth: -- 1.00 1.00 Sixth: -- 0.75 0.74 Reverse: 2.14 2.94 2.88 Final drive ratio: 3.91 2.89 2.77 Chassis/Suspension Front: MacPherson strut with aluminum L-shaped control arms; direct-acting 22-mm hollow stabilizer bar Rear: LS, LT: Four-link independent with twin-tube gas shocks; dual-rate mini-block coil springs; direct-acting 19-mm solid stabilizer bar. LTZ: Four-link independent with monotube shocks; dual-rate mini-block coil springs; direct-acting 20-mm solid stabilizer bar. Steering type: rack-and-pinion, electric power steering w/ 2.4L; rack-and-pinions, hydraulic power steering w/ 3.6L Steering ratio: 16.4:1 Steer wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 2.7 Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): 40.4 / 12.3 Brakes Type 4-wheel disc with 4-channel ABS Rotor diameter (in / mm): front: 11.65 / 296, ventilated rear: 10.87 / 276, solid Wheels/Tires Wheel size and type: 16-inch steel; painted trim (LS) 16-inch aluminum (Hybrid) 17-inch steel; chrome trim (LT1); 17-inch aluminum ultra-bright spun cast aluminum (LT2) 18-in ultra-bright spun cast aluminum (LTZ) Tire size and type: P215/60/R16 touring blackwall (LS) P215/60/R16 low-rolling resistance (Hybrid) P225/50R17 touring blackwall (LT) P225/50R18 touring blackwall (LTZ) Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase (in / mm): 112.3 / 2852 Overall length (in / mm): 191.8 / 4872 Overall width (in / mm): 70.3 / 1785 Overall height (in / mm): 57.1 / 1451 Track   Front (in / mm): 59.6 / 1514 Rear (in / mm): 60 / 1524 Curb weight (lb / kg): 3415 / 1549 (LS) 3436 / 1550 (LT) 3649 / 1655 (LTZ inc. V-6) Dimensions Interior Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3 EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): 97.7 / 2766 Headroom   Front (in /mm): 39.4 / 1000 Rear (in / mm): 37.2 / 945 Legroom   Front (in / mm): 42.2 / 1073 Rear (in / mm): 37.6 / 955 Shoulder room   Front (in / mm): 55.9 / 1421 Rear (in / mm): 53.9 / 1369 Hip room   Front (in / mm): 53 / 1346 Rear (in / mm): 52.1 / 1323 Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 15.1 / 427 Capacities Fuel tank (gal / L): 16.3 / 61.7 Engine oil (qt / L): 5.5 / 5.2 (3.6L) 5 / 4.7 (2.4L) Cooling system (qt / L): 10.3 / 9.7 (3.6L) 7.5 / 7.1 (2.4L) Max towing capacity (lb / kg): 1000 / 453 (3.6L); not recommended (2.4L) *Horsepower and torque are SAE certified. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future. Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.     ALL-NEW 2008 CHEVROLET MALIBU DELIVERS SEGMENT-TOPPING COMBINATION OF STYLE, PERFORMANCE AND FUEL ECONOMY DETROIT – The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers great performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in a clean, tailored design that carries the new face of Chevrolet. The new Malibu will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show. It arrives at Chevrolet dealerships later this year. “The 2008 Malibu rewrites Chevrolet’s midsize car strategy, offering a stylish, uncompromising package that stacks up against the most popular competitors,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “We know the competition is very good, and this new Malibu has the goods – both tangible and intangible – to assert a leadership position in the segment and re-affirm Chevrolet’s commitment to expressive cars.” Indeed, the 2008 Malibu brings a fresh perspective and new proportions to the midsize segment. It is more than three inches (76 mm) longer than the current model, with a six-inch-longer (162 mm) wheelbase that delivers a poised, wheels-at-the-corners stance and helps provide a smoother, more direct driving experience. In fact, Malibu's wheelbase is three inches (76 mm) longer than Toyota Camry. “ Malibu is the car our customers have been looking for,” said Peper. “There is more style and content on the new Malibu than any other competitor in the segment.” The new Malibu is offered in three well-equipped trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ – all with standard head-curtain side air bags and front-seat thorax air bags, OnStar Gen 7 with remote diagnostics, and XM Satellite Radio. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on LT and LTZ models. Highlights of the redesigned 2008 Malibu include: All-new refined and contemporary exterior with new dual-port grille design that represents the new face of Chevrolet Twin round taillamps Upscale interior design with available two-tone trim; gauges with Chevrolet blue backlighting Standard head-curtain side air bags and front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags Available 110-volt household-type AC power outlet Refined and technically advanced family of economic DOHC powertrains, including a 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder and a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing Fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission available with both four-cylinder and V-6 engines – a segment exclusive for four-cylinder engines Five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty Four-wheel independent suspension and longer wheelbase that deliver a more controlled, satisfying and confident driving experience Family of large wheels, including 18-inch ultra-bright polished wheels on LTZ Available large, panoramic sunroof Standard tire pressure monitoring system   ,.   Design details With its strong stance and bold proportions, the 2008 Malibu has a profile that reinforces its substantial feel. Clean, pure lines and wheels pushed to the corners, as well as a visually lower yet longer greenhouse and a shorter deck suggest motion, agility and attitude. The body sides are clean and elegant, interrupted only by distinctive, wheel-oriented forms that communicate an aggressive, stable stance and a rear profile that connects to Chevrolet’s rich performance heritage. The Malibu's dual-port grille is characteristic of the new face of Chevrolet cars and the twin round taillamps are Chevrolet cues, too, with LTZ models distinguished by front fog lamps and LED-lit taillamps. The design elements are complemented with precise details, including minimized panel gaps, a tight wheel-to-body relationship and select use of chrome trim. V-6 models also receive dual chrome exhaust outlets. The interior’s attention to detail matches the Malibu's exterior, with an ergonomic design using premium materials that convey quality and value, including a cast skin material on the instrument panel. The integrated, flowing instrument panel features a Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit design, with prominent gauges backlit in blue, and metallic or wood grain accents. The new Malibu has greater storage, too, with thoughtful features that maximize utility, including a deep center console with a sliding cover that opens to accommodate larger items. Also standard is an auxiliary in-dash storage compartment on the instrument panel for sunglasses, CDs and other items. An available rear power center provides a household-style 110-volt AC power outlet. Safe and secure The 2008 Malibu has a comprehensive roster of standard and available features that helps protect occupants before, during and after a crash. They include: Dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System Head curtain side-impact air bags (front and rear outboard seats) Front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags Front safety belt pretensioners LATCH child safety seat anchors Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS Traction control StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with panic brake assistance (LT and LTZ models) Tire pressure monitoring system All 2008 Malibu models come with OnStar Gen 7, which features standard automatic crash notification service and OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation – the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar.     Chevrolet Releases Sneak Peek of 2008 Malibu DETROIT, Mich. – Chevrolet today released an advance image of the exterior of the all-new 2008 Malibu, which will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January and will arrive at Chevrolet dealerships later in 2007. The photo was released in conjunction with the announcement of a $208 million investment in the Fairfax, Kansas Assembly plant to prepare for production of the car. The image reveals a partial shot of the front of the car featuring a dual-port grille, which is described as representing the “new face of Chevrolet.” “The 2008 Malibu design is expressive and brings new proportions and a fresh perspective to the mid-size market,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager. “The new Malibu boasts a poised, wheels-at-the-corners stance with a longer hood and shorter deck appearance that conveys motion, agility and attitude.” Chevrolet previously released a sneak peek of one of the car’s available two-tone interiors, which demonstrates a much more upscale look and feel with more premium materials and a new level of refinement in the extremely competitive mid-size car segment. # # # About Chevrolet Chevrolet is America's No. 1-selling automotive brand. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $9,995 to $78,175. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.