Redesigned in 2008, the Chevrolet Malibu emphasizes civilized road manners, quality construction and practicality, with clean, contemporary styling. So what’s new for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu? According to Chevrolet, the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan undergoes a number of key changes.

The six-speed automatic becomes more widely available with the four-cylinder engine, and the four is now standard instead of the V6 on the top-level LTZ trim. Bluetooth connectivity also debuts as an option, while stability control becomes standard across the lineup. Power-adjustable pedals are no longer offered.

The most noteworthy probably include an expanded offering of the fuel-wise 2.4L/6A powertrain combo, four new exterior colors, and the addition of bluetooth with the new OnStar 8.0 system. Thus, the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu continues with minimal changes including expanded availability across the model range of the 2.4-liter engine combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission, now standard for LTZ. Malibu features the addition of Bluetooth wireless connectivity with the new OnStar 8.0 system and new exterior colors.

The 2009 Malibu sedan, however, has three trim levels, they’re LS, LT, and LTZ. All models come with a 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as standard equipment. The LS and LT include a four-speed automatic transmission. The LTZ includes a six-speed automatic transmission, optional on the LT. Optional on the LT and LTZ is a 252-hp, 3.6-liter V6, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Malibu comes with standard safety features such as seat-mounted thorax airbags, side-curtain airbags, stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. New for 2009 the Malibu includes standard Bluetooth on the LTZ, optional on the LT.

Pros: Strong performance from V6, excellent ride and handling balance, roomy cabin, comfortable seats, high crash test scores, solid fit and finish.

Cons: Some subpar cabin materials, no rear center armrest, fussy manual-shift feature, a few key luxury features are unavailable.

Overall: The well-rounded 2009 Chevrolet Malibu earns our respect. It faces some tough rivals in the midsize family sedan game, such as the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry. But thanks to its useful updates for 2009, the Malibu seems to have avoided that old sophomore jinx, making this handsome sedan a stronger-performing and more entertaining pick than it was last year.

For more details about its specifications, please visit the following link.

[ Source: Chevrolet Malibu + Aol Cars Review ]