Chevrolet

2010 Chevrolet Malibu LS

Family Friendliness: 8.0

Recommended: Not Yet Driven

Specifications apply to this model only.

What it Is: A class-leading midsize four-door sedan.
Who it's For: Families who need no more than two LATCH positions and are OK with a sedan's smaller cargo space.
What's Hot: Crisp styling inside and out, and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine.
What's Not: LS gets worse fuel economy thanks to its older transmission.
How It Got Its Score: The Malibu LS has worse fuel economy than the other four-cylinder Malibus, which is offset by its lower price.

The 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is available in base LS, mid-level LT and top-of-the-line LTZ models with either a four-cylinder or V-6 engine available in 2LT and LTZ models (LS is four-cylinder only). The four-cylinder engine under the hood of the 1LT, 2LT and LTZ models offers up enough power for daily traffic, with class-leading fuel economy to boot thanks to the car's six-speed automatic transmission. However, LS models are saddled with an older four-speed automatic, which hurts fuel economy. We'd rather spend the extra money and get the better fuel economy in the 1LT model, unless the bottom line is a primary concern. On the plus side, the trunk is big for this class, and the outboard LATCH positions are easy to use.

While the Malibu is a pleasure to drive and less expensive than many of its primary competitors, it also isn't available with some key features, such as a navigation system. In addition, this model is now entering its third year, and some competitors - such as the Honda Accord - have been totally redesigned since the current Malibu made the scene, making competition that much more fierce.

Specifications Price MSRP $21,825 Destination $720 Mechanical Engine Size 2.4 liters Engine Type Inline-4 Horsepower 169 hp Torque 158 lb.-ft. Fuel Regular Unleaded Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Transmission 4-Speed Automatic Fuel Economy EPA City 22 mpg EPA Highway 30 mpg EPA Combined 25 mpg Utility Vehicle Type Midsize Car Family Friendliness 8.0 Doors Four Seat Rows Two Passengers Five LATCH Positions Two Cargo Space 15.1 cu. ft. Safety NHTSA Driver Front 5 Stars NHTSA Passenger Front 5 Stars NHTSA Driver Side 5 Stars NHTSA Rear Passenger Side 5 Stars NHTSA Rollover 4 Stars IIHS Front Good IIHS Side Good IIHS Rear Marginal Stability Control Standard Traction Control Standard Brake Assist Not Available Side Airbags Thorax and Curtain Collision Avoidance Not Available Active Cruise Control Not Available

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