GM please make the Malibu rwd with the 5.3 v8 and 10spd auto, and give its style family resemblance to the 60s and 70s Malibu and you'll have a direct competitor to the charger rt.
This is exactly what the Chevrolet SS was, RWD, V8, manual or auto, big and roomy, but people complained and nitpicked about the car and its styling. I don't understand that, but the SS was the perfect sleeper. I guess some people are just never satisfied.
Got the 2018 model 3 months ago . Got a good deal on the car. Cabin a quite. Kinda upset when i heard the front end got redesign and should of had waiting but this video made me appreciate my 18 more.
@@Omar-wi1ks Profits for Toyota support the Japanese market, not Toyota. That doesn't bother me though. The least we could do is to pay them back for the genocide we caused on their soil over 70 years ago.
This is why I like my 2017 Cruze. Inexpensive and not radically styled. Standard turbo engine and 6 speed automatic. These Malibus are nice, I'm not sure if I'd ever own one though.
Yet another well designed car. Not sure about it's reliability. But it does in fact look much more pleasing to the eyes than that hideous fugly Duckling 2018 Accord.
Beauty is to the beholder because IMO the Accord is better looking than that ugly Malibu. I think we all know who makes better engineered cars as well, ps it's not GM
What a turd. Why don't they make a version of the Malibu with the Buick Regal power-train and AWD system without the Buick mark-up? It's like the GM engineers spend their weekends taking notes at the plasti-chrome aisle of their local parts store looking for all sorts of garbage to stick all over the poor car. Do better GM.
Yep, so you should be able to get a Malibu 2.0t or V6 AWD for less than the base Regal, or close at least. GM is playing the idiotic packages game again and will be headed for another bailout in 10 years.
@@jag67stang Can't really argue about that. But GM or Buick I don't know which decided the end out come but the reason why the base Regal is that cheap is because Buick took out the Verano. They didn't want to scare off the Verano buyers.
@David Malinovsky The e2xx platform debuted with the Malibu first. Sure it's roots go back to the early 2000s with Opel. But it's changed drastically since then. One could say that the Opel Insignia is a rebadged chevy Malibu, beings they have similar platforms. Just because they sold the European division doesn't mean they are useless.
I don't know why they dropped the V6. I have a 2012 Malibu LTZ with the 3.6. Its nice and quiet with plenty of power It's been very reliable, Not a single problem (so far).
@@yvc8697 I think you are missing something here. CVT=continuous variable transmission. It's different than the vvt=variable valve timing you are referring to. We are talking about transmissions which the Malibu 1.5t used to have a 6 spd auto but now a CVT that acts like a 7 spd auto. It doesn't actually have gears per say but it acts like it does.
@@yvc8697 My gawd dude.....don't be so butt hurt. We get it, you're in love with your car. Nathan reviews thousands of vehicles. He knows what he's talkin about.
Carcaine SAME!! I'm glad the DCT trend in every single basic car is fading away over here in Europe and torque converters are not seen as ancient technology anymore, but what's up with all these car makers trying to push CVT's onto us? they take the last few fun pieces about driving away and it just sounds horrible…
@@yvc8697 What?! VVT is Variable Valve Timing. CVT is Continuously Variable Transmission. CVT is a type of transmission. VVT is an engine technology. VVT - engine. CVT - transmission. 🤦♂️
Boy there's a lot of smack talking about the Malibus RS package and the CVT. Guys the RS package is only for looks pretty much everybody knows that If You're Expecting performance forget it. And CVT you know why they put it in there they put it in there for fuel economy. And personally I think the front end of the refresh Malibu looks way better than the 16 through 18 models. I love it when everybody says the car is going to the rental fleets well no s*** rental companies have to have cars to rent out and if Automotive manufacturers aren't sending them cars to rent out then it defeats the purpose of a rental car company. Think about it Toyota used to never rent out any of their cameras or crows now they're renting them out by the s*** ton and guess what people are still buying Corollas and Camrys by the truck loads so apparently Toyota must have something going on that's working for him. And also it's actually not a bad idea to actually rent one of these cars to try them out to see if you actually like the vehicle. If you like the vehicle then you can go buy one. If you don't like the vehicle then don't buy it simple as that. One thing is really getting me irritated with people is the close-mindedness that a lot of people exhibit nowadays nobody's want to stray out their comfort zones and nobody's want to try different brands this brand loyalty thing as such a thing of the past. This is one thing we Americans need to rid ourselves of this closed-minded brand loyalty way of thinking. And you guys can send all the hate you want I really don't care but last I checked I have a right to my opinion just as everybody else. This is my opinion and I'm sticking with it.
Agree with everything you said so very well. I LIKE the new grill. Makes the entire car look better. Just wish they add some cream color to the LT models. The sea of gray is a turn off to me. Also, why do they tilt the touch screen up....that causes reflections from the sky...dumb. But overall the cat is a good value.
I'm more of a used car person being a younging lol but I would say brand loyalty in my perspective is because of reliability because I dont have a lot of money fix a car that breaks down. Like I would like to try kias and hyundais but there rep of breaking isnt good lol
It’s the base engine for chrissake who cares? They clearly want to maximize fuel efficiency. The 1.5 was gutless with the 6 speed and still is gutless. 2.0 or bust.
PeRX and what exactly is so bad about the CVT? It’s not like there’s much of a performance difference and if there is again who cares the thing gets to 60 in like 8 seconds no one is going to be bringing their Malibu to the track
@@standyourground9973 If my life would let me steal her car, I would. We went from a 2014 CTS with the 2.0(Huge repairs as soon as warranty ran out) to a 2017 Malibu base. That Cadillac was quick, but next to the Malibu...it was a beast. I have been able to squeeze in the 40s MPGs going to work. Pretty decent. Best 25 mile was 53. Still haven't had it on the interstate.
@@philtripe that's right. I work in car rentals here in the UK and most of the cars on our fleet are top spec models, even with small city cars. Everyone seems to think the cars on rental fleets are just budget and poverty spec with the worst engine but that's simply not the case.
It's a bargain: cheap and cheerful. It drives "ohhh kay". It looks "ohhh kay". It's bottom half (bottom third?) in almost every metric compared to peers, except price. But it also doesn't really get anything wrong. It's a helluva rental car: smooth, economical, eats up miles without stress, enough features, quiet (enough). I'm not sure I want to _OWN_ a rental car, but I bet you can drive off the lot closer to $20,000 than any of the competitors, including the Koreans, so if you are looking for reliable value, here it is.
lol bottom third? i can think of 2 or 3 cars that are probably better than this. the accord and camry and probably maybe mazda 6. the rest of the mid size market is shit. i personally prefer the way chevs drive to a honda or toyota but that being said id rather have the 2.0l over that shitty cvt
Washington and Oregon roads are always loader than other states due to the type of rock they use in the roads. Try driving the Malibu back to back with others in the segment, on the same roads, and you will find the sound to be similar to others in the class.
I own this car and have to say it's a 7/10 you'd think gm would of made a better air intake on the rs to allow you to hear the turbo, also it being a ls trim it doesnt have heated seats It's about the same price as a cruze rs (which has heated seats) but doesnt have a wrapped steering wheel and the mauilbu has bigger back seats One disappointing things is the roof liner is grey and not black like the cruze rs which would of made it look a lot nicer Above all the cvt makes this car drive quite smooth and it has very little turbo lag compared to the cruze So if you're looking for a cheaper car with big back seats that gets good mileage and dont care about add ons past push button start, ac, power windows and keyless entry aswell as automatic start this car is perfect
I really hope this is a pretty short and quick preview of what the future holds for this car. I want to see an RS package that talks and does. I love Chevy and the Malibu because I have a 07 Malibu SS. But ever since then Malibu’s have fallen off!
Just bought the last year 2025 Malibu. Traded in my Camaro SS. it was fun, but, I wanted something that just cruised along nicely. Much better than the Maxima I rented IMO
My mom owns a Malibu and I’ve never heard any tire noises or engine noises. She also has the Premier wheels, and had the LS wheels at one point and I’ve never heard tire noise. The loudest thing about this car is the radiator fans, which are constantly on in 100+ degree Vegas weather. But yea, this thing is incredibly slow. Slow to the point I’ve thought about talking my mom into getting her car tuned.
Im convinced that gm/chevy puts more effort in quality in suvs and trucks than in the car models they offer. Ive had 3 silverados 08,11, now a LTZ 2018 2500 hd 6.6. And they have gotten better fit and finish every year. Hope they keep the lil cars around and improve on some of the lil faults and make it more competitive. I own a 2017 camry XLE, top of the line and it has excessive road noise as well.
Looks like a decent car; nicer visuals. We rent them when we visit our family (had a 2018 last time - completely adequate), since both my in-laws use walkers and they fit in the good-sized trunk fairly effortlessly. Our suitcases also fit OK, but nothing to get excited about; one must maneuver to make two medium and two small ones fit "cleanly." Last year's model was indeed a bit noisy inside, but my in-laws are hard of hearing and we don't play the car radio except for the news, so I can't compare the road noise vs. radio ratio! The mileage was decent - around 27 once on the highway, and in Arizona everyone drives 70-80, so it cuts into the economy. For our last full-size rental, in Canada, we tried a Dodge Charger - it was what they had for decent money - but it was rolling garbage and we took it back: cheap-feeling, uncomfortable seats that felt like cardboard, awkward seating positions, unsuitable for several days of cruising. We were going to go to another rental company, but then they offered us a BMW 550 for the same price to keep our business. What a difference - and what a lucky break! I'm not expecting BMW-level performance from the Chevy, but it'll be fine, will keep up in traffic and will suit our purpose. Thanks for the thorough review.
Some people are saying bring back the V6 in the Malibu ain't going to happen and is not needed. I have the 2017 Malibu with the 2.0 Turbo and the car can run 5.3 to 60 and turn the quarter mile in 14.3 at almost 100 mph top speed is drag limited at 153 . At almost 3,200 pounds this car is light in weight, fast and gets great gas mileage. At 10,000 miles not a problem so far and have surprised a few unsuspecting others from a red light.
I’m surprised Nathan didn’t mention the rough start/stop system, with no way to disable it. I rented one of these, and everytime it started back up I felt like I was being rear ended.
On my 18, you can disable the auto start stop by putting it into L6, car will shift normally without the auto start and stop. I don't know about the CVT trans though.
Strange that this car has so much road noise? One of the few good things Consumer Reports had to say about the 2018 Malibu was that it had an “absurdly quiet cabin” I wonder if they forgot sound deadening? Or maybe the wheel and tire package is the problem?
Don't call it an RS if it's just all looks. Coming soon to an Avis rental counter near you - "we don't have anymore camry's but I can 'upgrade' you to a malibu ***RS*** "
Looks nice,but where's the black rims. Doesn't RS,wait hold,on! It's the redline version that has black rims. Love the 2019 grill. Much improved. Hated the grill before. I say it still needs to be more aggressive.
I dont understand, you guys tested a 2016 Malibu LT with that same engine and it wasnt noisy. I wonder if they reduced the sound deadening materials to make it sound sportier? You didnt mention much of the new VT40 CVT transmission, seems it did its job without impacting negatively on the driving dynamics. Also GM could have done more with this RS package with a FE2 suspension tune, freer flowing exhaust, and RS interior badging. But it really is a appearance package for the lower trim levels and for a good price too.
Civic LX and Camry L do not. Acura TLX, Chrysler 300 (also does not have standard LED's), Hyundai Elantra, Honda Insight, and Toyota Avalon are NOT in the same class as a Malibu. 2018 Honda Accord does have standard low beam LED's, my oversight there.
@@Stressless2023 youre right but none of them have halogen bulbs as their headlights, except maybe the hyundai. All have white projector lights and this is a 2019 model and were comparing it to 2018 models. And this is the rs package for looks. You expect at least projector lighting not halogen cmon
You said there were no changes under the hood, but that's not true. The 2016-2018 Malibus with the 1.5T used to come with a 6 speed auto, but now the 2019s come with a CVT.
I like the RS package looks and really love how comfortable the seats are just wish the road noise had some justification, maybe because of sportier handling or 2.0 engine. Still a bargain in my opinion and great commuter car.
Honestly, I prefer my 2018 2.0 with my intake, tune, muffler/res delete, and custom exhaust tips. Doesn't make it a super fast car but it definitely has a lot more pep in it's step without losing too much fuel economy. I think it's the perfect setup. Not to mention the grilles just look a lot better than this monstrosity.
bigvirgotube swapping tires might reduce tire noise, but how will it decrease wind noise? The car needs thicker glass and better door seals and insulation to reduce the wind noise, all of which costs $$$; thus the car was built to an engineering minimum.
Why does Chevy reserve the RS badge for cosmetics instead of upgrades in performance (cornering and or )straightline? I had a 1994 Cavalier RS sedan (bought used at low price) and it too was an appearance package with absolutely no performance upgrades.
I have an LT. I wish GM would give the RS the leather and Panoramic sunroof option. With the sporty look, and those two options... I’d trade in a heartbeat but they do not have that option.
You hear that car take off? Simulated shift points on that CVT. It’s a CVT just let it work like a CVT and stop adding simulated shifting. It actually hurts performance to simulate shift points with a CVT.
Have mercy on us all Chevrolet!!!! How y'all gonna slap an RS badge on this and not give it more power!!!??? And then give it a CVT!!!???? Good grief!!! That giant maw of a grille aside it really doesn't look bad at all. With sedan sales falling off a cliff I honestly give any automotive company props for making their sedans a little more stylish (even if they're overstyled).
I just don’t understand why they nerfed the engine. The 2.5 put out 200 hp, now they want to stick a turbo 1.5 that makes 160? The RS looks really sporty but you CANNOT get it with the 2.0T, which makes no sense.
noise level in the '17 is very good. 40k miles in a year and a half and no rattles yet.. I guess I have Chevy V8's and exhaust on all those so there is that...
In the Malaise Era didn't sporty stickers make the car go faster? Color me unimpressed with expensive trim (sticker) packages that aren't backed up with suspension or engine upgrades.
I have driven this car twice for a week each. It's very quiet verses the competition from the Japanese and Koreans. Maybe the CVT model is louder but all other reviewers have also said that it's one quiet car. Maybe Nathan just came off driving a Bentley or something ...
It’s meant to compete with Honda sport trim which also has CVT and turbo. Come on y’all just hating . It’s a great idea and nice alternative! Go Malibu! ALTHOUGH I would’ve given it more HP and Torque maybe even 200
The general really lost some sauce lol I remember all the super sport cars we had from the late 90s to like 08...(here's just a few for people who don't relate)...trailblazer ss ,Malibu ss , Grand Prix gtp and gxp , small cars like the cobalt even got the ss treatment , Buick park avenue ultra like come on its no fun anymore 😢😢
The real question is the durability of this car. Can you drive this car hundreds of miles without the engine breaking down? After all, this car has an I4 engine. Many people say that such a trip can place lots of stress on a vehicle like this. And if this car has a hundred thousand miles on it, will it need lots of maintenance?
I had to get a new motor at 59K miles. There was a assembly defect where GM sourced cheap pistons in results to pre-mature cracks in the long term. Even with 5K oil changes couldnt prevent this. My new motor has about 12K miles now and runs like the day I bought it. Though I strictly stick to 91 Octane.
Forget this, get a Malibu Hybrid. Easy 45 mpg even with spirited driving, and it's powerful considering it's electric torque. And no hybrid badging, nobody knows it's a hybrid...
If Nathan says this car is noisey, then I'm inclined to believe him. I like the 'bu, but once upon on a time "RS" meant gumption, not gleepy (glazed-over boring, to the point of sleepy). The wheels at ok, but not enough to warrant purchase and frankly, I would have made that 9-speed and paddle-shifters a part of the deal, or really show a little testicular fortitude with a 6-speed manual; even if the 1.5 was still the only way to go for power. Grade for Chevy: C. Grade for TFL Car and Nathan: A+++++++++++++++! 🐇
Malibu has a big brother name Camaro, and Ford has the mustang. Camry has what? The Avalon. Honda accord looks more, and more like an AMERICAN car (A Camaro). I would say the Malibu is in a class of its own.
I have a 2017 malibu hybrid. I love it. It averages about 45 mpg. It's loud in the rear. I thought it was because it was a hybrid. FYI I gave $27000 for it new.
It looks better but it's sad that they're bringing a CVT into the mix and the RS package isn't available on the 2.0T. Fusion looks much better inside and out. Hopefully Ford keeps the Fusion.
Terrible assignment for you Nathan, but you did really well by keeping the review under 6 minutes, and conveying to us - what a noisy s*&t-box that thing is with the 1.5L and CVT. TFL owes you a better next assignment.
They need to bring back the high-performance Malibu SS's back like the ones in the 70s
GM cares more about Cadillac.SUVs.Trucks and Corvette ! They don't try very hard when it comes to entry level cars ! Sadly.
@@leesantos9711 Like this model all together will die in 2024 sooo
@@2fast4all Pretty sad ! The imports are loving it !
I just rented a Malibu, and it had that engine. I honestly didn't know I was driving a turbo. I was also getting a solid 35mpg with four passengers.
Nice
RS package should be on the 2.0t
Ryan Fiderlick right can’t stand these appearance packages with no performance boost
Ryan Fiderlick exactly
Pablo Herasme aka toyota "XSE" packages lol
I do agree with you.
2.0t available in China! 220 hp!
GM please make the Malibu rwd with the 5.3 v8 and 10spd auto, and give its style family resemblance to the 60s and 70s Malibu and you'll have a direct competitor to the charger rt.
This is exactly what the Chevrolet SS was, RWD, V8, manual or auto, big and roomy, but people complained and nitpicked about the car and its styling. I don't understand that, but the SS was the perfect sleeper. I guess some people are just never satisfied.
CVT?! I wasn’t expecting this from GM.
Its pretty soulless
The Malibu is much better than the Kia Optima,Hyundai Sonata standard.
I could never understand why they got rid of the V6 Malibus.
mike wilson fuel efficiency and fewer CO2 emissions
Got the 2018 model 3 months ago . Got a good deal on the car. Cabin a quite. Kinda upset when i heard the front end got redesign and should of had waiting but this video made me appreciate my 18 more.
Yes, I got the 2016 premier package, and at least to me looks and performs better with the 2.0 turbo and 8 speed automatic.
CVT is a turnoff
I am so happy that Chevys the only American, that never gave up the sedan market
Not just chevys, in fact toyotas for example vehicles are assembled in USA though they're japanese
@@Omar-wi1ks Profits for Toyota support the Japanese market, not Toyota. That doesn't bother me though. The least we could do is to pay them back for the genocide we caused on their soil over 70 years ago.
@@Omar-wi1ks Money goes back to Japan and GM pays their employees much better, i like that !
This is why I like my 2017 Cruze. Inexpensive and not radically styled. Standard turbo engine and 6 speed automatic. These Malibus are nice, I'm not sure if I'd ever own one though.
Yet another well designed car. Not sure about it's reliability. But it does in fact look much more pleasing to the eyes than that hideous fugly Duckling 2018 Accord.
Beauty is to the beholder because IMO the Accord is better looking than that ugly Malibu. I think we all know who makes better engineered cars as well, ps it's not GM
@@bb2status Neither GM or Honda make cars as good as they used to.
@@bb2status it depends on everyones point of view, to me both accord and malibu look similar and they are nice cars
Sporty look? Subjective.
Overall execution? No.
Good starter car for many? Yes.
What a turd. Why don't they make a version of the Malibu with the Buick Regal power-train and AWD system without the Buick mark-up? It's like the GM engineers spend their weekends taking notes at the plasti-chrome aisle of their local parts store looking for all sorts of garbage to stick all over the poor car. Do better GM.
You can get a regal 2.0t with awd for a little more than a Malibu premier. Or forgo awd and get a fwd regal for around 26k without incentives.
Yep, so you should be able to get a Malibu 2.0t or V6 AWD for less than the base Regal, or close at least. GM is playing the idiotic packages game again and will be headed for another bailout in 10 years.
@@jag67stang
Can't really argue about that. But GM or Buick I don't know which decided the end out come but the reason why the base Regal is that cheap is because Buick took out the Verano. They didn't want to scare off the Verano buyers.
@David Malinovsky
The e2xx platform debuted with the Malibu first. Sure it's roots go back to the early 2000s with Opel. But it's changed drastically since then. One could say that the Opel Insignia is a rebadged chevy Malibu, beings they have similar platforms. Just because they sold the European division doesn't mean they are useless.
Because who will buy a $40k Malibu?
Bring the V6 and remove CVTs 😑
I don't know why they dropped the V6. I have a 2012 Malibu LTZ with the 3.6. Its nice and quiet with plenty of power It's been very reliable, Not a single problem (so far).
@@yvc8697
I think you are missing something here. CVT=continuous variable transmission. It's different than the vvt=variable valve timing you are referring to. We are talking about transmissions which the Malibu 1.5t used to have a 6 spd auto but now a CVT that acts like a 7 spd auto. It doesn't actually have gears per say but it acts like it does.
@@yvc8697 inline4..... v4 only in motorcycles, it never took off in the car industry
and hello 19 mpg...the premier has a real 8 speed transmission
@@philtripe
It got the 9 spd auto back in 2017.
It has a CVT? Instant fail for me. Really hate the CVT trend.
Carcaine CVT always problems
@@yvc8697 My gawd dude.....don't be so butt hurt. We get it, you're in love with your car. Nathan reviews thousands of vehicles. He knows what he's talkin about.
@@poppa_da_corn how is that being a butthurt? The man likes his car let him be.
Carcaine SAME!! I'm glad the DCT trend in every single basic car is fading away over here in Europe and torque converters are not seen as ancient technology anymore, but what's up with all these car makers trying to push CVT's onto us? they take the last few fun pieces about driving away and it just sounds horrible…
@@yvc8697 What?! VVT is Variable Valve Timing. CVT is Continuously Variable Transmission. CVT is a type of transmission. VVT is an engine technology. VVT - engine. CVT - transmission. 🤦♂️
CVT and turbo now that's what you call very reliable
Those base model unpainted plastic mirrors really give out a sporty vibe👌🏻
Chevy seems to be one of the few companies that can execute a big grill perfectly on a sedan. Props to them.
I agree and I just like Japanese/European, the Accord grill looks like crap.. kind of empty...this one looks quite decent
As much as I wished they would’ve bucked the trend and set their own, o have to agree. It looks better Than the accord in that respect.
Boy there's a lot of smack talking about the Malibus RS package and the CVT. Guys the RS package is only for looks pretty much everybody knows that If You're Expecting performance forget it. And CVT you know why they put it in there they put it in there for fuel economy. And personally I think the front end of the refresh Malibu looks way better than the 16 through 18 models. I love it when everybody says the car is going to the rental fleets well no s*** rental companies have to have cars to rent out and if Automotive manufacturers aren't sending them cars to rent out then it defeats the purpose of a rental car company. Think about it Toyota used to never rent out any of their cameras or crows now they're renting them out by the s*** ton and guess what people are still buying Corollas and Camrys by the truck loads so apparently Toyota must have something going on that's working for him. And also it's actually not a bad idea to actually rent one of these cars to try them out to see if you actually like the vehicle. If you like the vehicle then you can go buy one. If you don't like the vehicle then don't buy it simple as that. One thing is really getting me irritated with people is the close-mindedness that a lot of people exhibit nowadays nobody's want to stray out their comfort zones and nobody's want to try different brands this brand loyalty thing as such a thing of the past. This is one thing we Americans need to rid ourselves of this closed-minded brand loyalty way of thinking. And you guys can send all the hate you want I really don't care but last I checked I have a right to my opinion just as everybody else. This is my opinion and I'm sticking with it.
Bravo! And a Mopar Fan too. My Respects, wish Dodge still had a FWD mid sized sedan to compete. I bet they'd do something hot with it.
Couldn't have said it better myself. I hate people who think Camry and Accords are God's gift to the world and American cars are no good.
Louder for people in the back!!! Preach it!!!!
Agree with everything you said so very well. I LIKE the new grill. Makes the entire car look better. Just wish they add some cream color to the LT models. The sea of gray is a turn off to me. Also, why do they tilt the touch screen up....that causes reflections from the sky...dumb. But overall the cat is a good value.
I'm more of a used car person being a younging lol but I would say brand loyalty in my perspective is because of reliability because I dont have a lot of money fix a car that breaks down. Like I would like to try kias and hyundais but there rep of breaking isnt good lol
I can’t believe Chevy caved and put a CVT in this car. So sad.
It’s the base engine for chrissake who cares? They clearly want to maximize fuel efficiency. The 1.5 was gutless with the 6 speed and still is gutless. 2.0 or bust.
EnclaveGames the base engine is in every model minus the hybrid and Premier, so it’s a pretty big deal
EnclaveGames but yes the 1.5 is gutless. One of my, and my moms biggest complaints about her Malibu
PeRX and what exactly is so bad about the CVT? It’s not like there’s much of a performance difference and if there is again who cares the thing gets to 60 in like 8 seconds no one is going to be bringing their Malibu to the track
@@standyourground9973 If my life would let me steal her car, I would. We went from a 2014 CTS with the 2.0(Huge repairs as soon as warranty ran out) to a 2017 Malibu base.
That Cadillac was quick, but next to the Malibu...it was a beast. I have been able to squeeze in the 40s MPGs going to work. Pretty decent. Best 25 mile was 53. Still haven't had it on the interstate.
RS = Rental Sedan...
i rented one, it was the premier...rental companies usually get most available options
@@philtripe that's right. I work in car rentals here in the UK and most of the cars on our fleet are top spec models, even with small city cars. Everyone seems to think the cars on rental fleets are just budget and poverty spec with the worst engine but that's simply not the case.
SRT Sorbs at least they can afford to have one unlike FCA
Exactly!! Enterprise & Hertz already put in their orders!
That's what it will be. I guess GM needed to keep something around for FLEET use.
It's a bargain: cheap and cheerful. It drives "ohhh kay". It looks "ohhh kay". It's bottom half (bottom third?) in almost every metric compared to peers, except price. But it also doesn't really get anything wrong. It's a helluva rental car: smooth, economical, eats up miles without stress, enough features, quiet (enough). I'm not sure I want to _OWN_ a rental car, but I bet you can drive off the lot closer to $20,000 than any of the competitors, including the Koreans, so if you are looking for reliable value, here it is.
Those front end grilles are hideous.
and say hello to fixing it. this car is junk!
lol bottom third? i can think of 2 or 3 cars that are probably better than this. the accord and camry and probably maybe mazda 6. the rest of the mid size market is shit. i personally prefer the way chevs drive to a honda or toyota but that being said id rather have the 2.0l over that shitty cvt
Recently paid 27k for the 18’ LT should’ve waited 🤦🏾♂️
K Fresh haha I’m the same. We have the same car... I should have waited too
Washington and Oregon roads are always loader than other states due to the type of rock they use in the roads. Try driving the Malibu back to back with others in the segment, on the same roads, and you will find the sound to be similar to others in the class.
Driving one now! I like muscle but this car is nice to drive long distance like a quarter tank for 3 hrs!
Road noise means the tires are too big and aggressive. This happens in most vehicles.
I own this car and have to say it's a 7/10 you'd think gm would of made a better air intake on the rs to allow you to hear the turbo, also it being a ls trim it doesnt have heated seats
It's about the same price as a cruze rs (which has heated seats) but doesnt have a wrapped steering wheel and the mauilbu has bigger back seats
One disappointing things is the roof liner is grey and not black like the cruze rs which would of made it look a lot nicer
Above all the cvt makes this car drive quite smooth and it has very little turbo lag compared to the cruze
So if you're looking for a cheaper car with big back seats that gets good mileage and dont care about add ons past push button start, ac, power windows and keyless entry aswell as automatic start this car is perfect
The front definitely looks better then the current 2018 model
there is NO CVT in the 2016-2018 model year!
Come on Chevy put that 2.7 4 cylinder with 300 hp and make a real American car.
@@jx906 my premier has 250hp and goes pretty good
My 2013 2.0 makes 310+ with a tune. 260ish to the wheels.
does it have lane assist
I really hope this is a pretty short and quick preview of what the future holds for this car. I want to see an RS package that talks and does. I love Chevy and the Malibu because I have a 07 Malibu SS. But ever since then Malibu’s have fallen off!
Just bought the last year 2025 Malibu. Traded in my Camaro SS. it was fun, but, I wanted something that just cruised along nicely. Much better than the Maxima I rented IMO
My mom owns a Malibu and I’ve never heard any tire noises or engine noises. She also has the Premier wheels, and had the LS wheels at one point and I’ve never heard tire noise. The loudest thing about this car is the radiator fans, which are constantly on in 100+ degree Vegas weather. But yea, this thing is incredibly slow. Slow to the point I’ve thought about talking my mom into getting her car tuned.
you can get one of these with rs package for $19,700 in az. chapman chevrolet. that's pretty cheap for all you're getting
LOOKS REAL GOOD. JUST GOT ONE AND LOVE IT
Im convinced that gm/chevy puts more effort in quality in suvs and trucks than in the car models they offer. Ive had 3 silverados 08,11, now a LTZ 2018 2500 hd 6.6. And they have gotten better fit and finish every year. Hope they keep the lil cars around and improve on some of the lil faults and make it more competitive. I own a 2017 camry XLE, top of the line and it has excessive road noise as well.
Here in Canada the Malibu has a 9 spd auto with the 1.5l engine
AllAboutVehicles it doesn’t. That’s only for the 2.0t
Looks like a decent car; nicer visuals. We rent them when we visit our family (had a 2018 last time - completely adequate), since both my in-laws use walkers and they fit in the good-sized trunk fairly effortlessly. Our suitcases also fit OK, but nothing to get excited about; one must maneuver to make two medium and two small ones fit "cleanly." Last year's model was indeed a bit noisy inside, but my in-laws are hard of hearing and we don't play the car radio except for the news, so I can't compare the road noise vs. radio ratio! The mileage was decent - around 27 once on the highway, and in Arizona everyone drives 70-80, so it cuts into the economy. For our last full-size rental, in Canada, we tried a Dodge Charger - it was what they had for decent money - but it was rolling garbage and we took it back: cheap-feeling, uncomfortable seats that felt like cardboard, awkward seating positions, unsuitable for several days of cruising. We were going to go to another rental company, but then they offered us a BMW 550 for the same price to keep our business. What a difference - and what a lucky break! I'm not expecting BMW-level performance from the Chevy, but it'll be fine, will keep up in traffic and will suit our purpose. Thanks for the thorough review.
Some people are saying bring back the V6 in the Malibu ain't going to happen and is not needed. I have the 2017 Malibu with the 2.0 Turbo and the car can run 5.3 to 60 and turn the quarter mile in 14.3 at almost 100 mph top speed is drag limited at 153 . At almost 3,200 pounds this car is light in weight, fast and gets great gas mileage. At 10,000 miles not a problem so far and have surprised a few unsuspecting others from a red light.
Great looking car.
I’m surprised Nathan didn’t mention the rough start/stop system, with no way to disable it. I rented one of these, and everytime it started back up I felt like I was being rear ended.
On my 18, you can disable the auto start stop by putting it into L6, car will shift normally without the auto start and stop. I don't know about the CVT trans though.
put a v6 and 9speed more deadner in the rs you will sell tons of them
Strange that this car has so much road noise? One of the few good things Consumer Reports had to say about the 2018 Malibu was that it had an “absurdly quiet cabin” I wonder if they forgot sound deadening? Or maybe the wheel and tire package is the problem?
I do think that it's better looking than the Premier but I think that it should have been equipped with the 2.0 liter if they're using the RS name.
The CVT is new on the 2019, it came with a 6 speed automatic with the 1.5t on 2018-2016 models.
Don't call it an RS if it's just all looks. Coming soon to an Avis rental counter near you - "we don't have anymore camry's but I can 'upgrade' you to a malibu ***RS*** "
Edward Green, Jr new Camry shits on this Malibu rs
as far as chevy's go, the RS has always been an appearance package.
RS stands for Rental Sedan 😂
Nice car! What time is it due back at Enterprise?
Any idea how reliable this will be? Been looking at this & Ford Fusions & would plan on keeping it till it dies.
Looks nice,but where's the black rims. Doesn't RS,wait hold,on! It's the redline version that has black rims. Love the 2019 grill. Much improved. Hated the grill before. I say it still needs to be more aggressive.
How is the cvt?
I dont understand, you guys tested a 2016 Malibu LT with that same engine and it wasnt noisy. I wonder if they reduced the sound deadening materials to make it sound sportier? You didnt mention much of the new VT40 CVT transmission, seems it did its job without impacting negatively on the driving dynamics. Also GM could have done more with this RS package with a FE2 suspension tune, freer flowing exhaust, and RS interior badging. But it really is a appearance package for the lower trim levels and for a good price too.
2 litre engine needed
Are those halogen bulbs? What is this 2006??
Nothing else in its class has standard LED's. They are optional
SuchANiceGirl22 The Accord has standard LEDs
@@Stressless2023 civic acura tlx accord elantra 2019 chrysler 300s 2018 camry 2018 Avalon civic hatch insight, and many more. Just to name a few.
Civic LX and Camry L do not. Acura TLX, Chrysler 300 (also does not have standard LED's), Hyundai Elantra, Honda Insight, and Toyota Avalon are NOT in the same class as a Malibu. 2018 Honda Accord does have standard low beam LED's, my oversight there.
@@Stressless2023 youre right but none of them have halogen bulbs as their headlights, except maybe the hyundai. All have white projector lights and this is a 2019 model and were comparing it to 2018 models. And this is the rs package for looks. You expect at least projector lighting not halogen cmon
Nice video!! Love how you narrated!
Like the look. Probably looks really good in black or white. I think the cvt is new for 2019
Wow, I saw the newspaper that It will launch 4 quarter in S.Korea.
Why did they eliminate the side winkers from side mirrors? I absolutely need those winkers on the crowed road here in Korea.
You said there were no changes under the hood, but that's not true. The 2016-2018 Malibus with the 1.5T used to come with a 6 speed auto, but now the 2019s come with a CVT.
but with the same 1.5L T
I like the RS package looks and really love how comfortable the seats are just wish the road noise had some justification, maybe because of sportier handling or 2.0 engine. Still a bargain in my opinion and great commuter car.
The only thing I want to know this car is will the '19 updated head unit work in my '16 Premier.
Honestly, I prefer my 2018 2.0 with my intake, tune, muffler/res delete, and custom exhaust tips. Doesn't make it a super fast car but it definitely has a lot more pep in it's step without losing too much fuel economy. I think it's the perfect setup. Not to mention the grilles just look a lot better than this monstrosity.
Could the tires be the issue? Perhaps swapping them out for something better might reduce the wind noise in the rear.
bigvirgotube swapping tires might reduce tire noise, but how will it decrease wind noise? The car needs thicker glass and better door seals and insulation to reduce the wind noise, all of which costs $$$; thus the car was built to an engineering minimum.
True...I re-watched after reading your comment. He did mention both wind and road noise.
Whats up with the headlights? No leds or hids standard yet?
They aren't standard on anything it competes with either. They are optional.
Standard on premier , LT & LS get halogen projectors.
Nice looking car for a good price....what is everyone crying about?
Hell of a bargain !
@@leesantos9711 You only drive Dodge Al.
@@robertriley1569 😆 Can't afford nothing else !
More CVT garbage instant rejection.
anajay78 EXACTLY lol
anajay78 what’s so bad about a CVT?
I know the premier trim also has different lamps. How can we see a video of that?
Why does Chevy reserve the RS badge for cosmetics instead of upgrades in performance (cornering and or )straightline? I had a 1994 Cavalier RS sedan (bought used at low price) and it too was an appearance package with absolutely no performance upgrades.
I have an LT. I wish GM would give the RS the leather and Panoramic sunroof option. With the sporty look, and those two options... I’d trade in a heartbeat but they do not have that option.
You hear that car take off? Simulated shift points on that CVT. It’s a CVT just let it work like a CVT and stop adding simulated shifting. It actually hurts performance to simulate shift points with a CVT.
No noticable shifting is the entire reason I want a CVT in the first place.
The outerior is way better than previous model
Have mercy on us all Chevrolet!!!! How y'all gonna slap an RS badge on this and not give it more power!!!??? And then give it a CVT!!!???? Good grief!!! That giant maw of a grille aside it really doesn't look bad at all. With sedan sales falling off a cliff I honestly give any automotive company props for making their sedans a little more stylish (even if they're overstyled).
I just don’t understand why they nerfed the engine. The 2.5 put out 200 hp, now they want to stick a turbo 1.5 that makes 160? The RS looks really sporty but you CANNOT get it with the 2.0T, which makes no sense.
I love my malibu for life!!
Best to me and ive owed an accord
noise level in the '17 is very good. 40k miles in a year and a half and no rattles yet.. I guess I have Chevy V8's and exhaust on all those so there is that...
Awesome review!
I am glad your back....🦉
Malibu RF .... rental fleet
at first glance I thought it was a Chrysler 200.
My thoughts, too. I liked the looks of the 200.
Same think I thought too.
RF? It’s RS.
It’s no Rally Sport
RS...not RF. You=Raving Fucktard
1st year for this CVT, GM never do good with CVT, big problem with the Saturn Ion. Hope this one is better
In the Malaise Era didn't sporty stickers make the car go faster? Color me unimpressed with expensive trim (sticker) packages that aren't backed up with suspension or engine upgrades.
I have driven this car twice for a week each. It's very quiet verses the competition from the Japanese and Koreans. Maybe the CVT model is louder but all other reviewers have also said that it's one quiet car. Maybe Nathan just came off driving a Bentley or something ...
It’s meant to compete with Honda sport trim which also has CVT and turbo. Come on y’all just hating . It’s a great idea and nice alternative! Go Malibu! ALTHOUGH I would’ve given it more HP and Torque maybe even 200
No V6 option I pass. I have an impala LTZ last gen model and love it. But Im looking at the 2019 blazer. AWD and has sport mode.
The general really lost some sauce lol I remember all the super sport cars we had from the late 90s to like 08...(here's just a few for people who don't relate)...trailblazer ss ,Malibu ss , Grand Prix gtp and gxp , small cars like the cobalt even got the ss treatment , Buick park avenue ultra like come on its no fun anymore 😢😢
Awesome 😃 👍 2019 Chevy Malibu RS review .
2 litre engine needed
The real question is the durability of this car. Can you drive this car hundreds of miles without the engine breaking down? After all, this car has an I4 engine. Many people say that such a trip can place lots of stress on a vehicle like this. And if this car has a hundred thousand miles on it, will it need lots of maintenance?
I had to get a new motor at 59K miles. There was a assembly defect where GM sourced cheap pistons in results to pre-mature cracks in the long term. Even with 5K oil changes couldnt prevent this. My new motor has about 12K miles now and runs like the day I bought it. Though I strictly stick to 91 Octane.
No more LED lights upfront?
I don't like CVT transmission but it's cheaper than most cars and doesn't look bad, the black treatment should have made it to the letters ( Malibu) .
I just bought the 2018 Malibu lt I just don’t understand why they didn’t give me this option.
I thought the Fusion was still around till 2022? I could be wrong though.
Bob Force It is
Seeing that the Ford Fusion is being discontinued Chevrolet could have tried harder now they are about to be the only American entry in the segment
2014 was the malibu.it went dart like now fusion.had a 14 now 15.keep it malibu nent year.
Forget this, get a Malibu Hybrid. Easy 45 mpg even with spirited driving, and it's powerful considering it's electric torque. And no hybrid badging, nobody knows it's a hybrid...
If Nathan says this car is noisey, then I'm inclined to believe him. I like the 'bu, but once upon on a time "RS" meant gumption, not gleepy (glazed-over boring, to the point of sleepy). The wheels at ok, but not enough to warrant purchase and frankly, I would have made that 9-speed and paddle-shifters a part of the deal, or really show a little testicular fortitude with a 6-speed manual; even if the 1.5 was still the only way to go for power. Grade for Chevy: C. Grade for TFL Car and Nathan: A+++++++++++++++!
🐇
How is there not anything new under the hood 1 the CVT is new isn't it? I thought that was new for 2019?
occckid123 CTV is new for the 2019 model year.
Chad Johnson so how do they say nothing new under the hood like its been a cvt all this time lol
occckid123 I don’t think he was aware that it had a cvt in it.
To bad they didnt go to a 1.6 turbo with around 190 to 200 hp.
Malibu has a big brother name Camaro, and Ford has the mustang. Camry has what? The Avalon. Honda accord looks more, and more like an AMERICAN car (A Camaro). I would say the Malibu is in a class of its own.
I like the looks, but the big turn-offs are:
1) Noise Levels
2) CVT
3) Tiny Motor
I have a 2017 malibu hybrid. I love it. It averages about 45 mpg. It's loud in the rear. I thought it was because it was a hybrid. FYI I gave $27000 for it new.
How long have you had it?
It looks better but it's sad that they're bringing a CVT into the mix and the RS package isn't available on the 2.0T. Fusion looks much better inside and out. Hopefully Ford keeps the Fusion.
DJR5280 they won't because they're desperate to sell those silly ass crossovers
Terrible assignment for you Nathan, but you did really well by keeping the review under 6 minutes, and conveying to us - what a noisy s*&t-box that thing is with the 1.5L and CVT. TFL owes you a better next assignment.