2009 MALIBU HYBRID OFFERS AN AFFORDABLE, FUEL-EFFICIENT ALTERNATIVE
06/09/2008
Chevrolet
Offering a competitive combination of refinement and fuel efficiency, the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is the most affordable hybrid version of a midsize sedan. It delivers the highest fuel economy among all Malibu models without having the highest price tag.
Malibu Hybrid delivers an estimated 34 mpg in highway driving and 26 mpg in the city - an improvement over 2008 models, thanks to better control of the battery charging/discharging system and new low rolling-resistance tires
"With the Malibu Hybrid, customers don't need to sacrifice style or capability to realize a significant fuel-efficiency gain," said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. "The Malibu Hybrid is just one example of Chevy's fuel-saving technologies that will take us from gas friendly to gas free."
The Malibu Hybrid offers a competitive combination of refinement and fuel efficiency. Standard features include automatic climate control, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, and a driver information center with hybrid-specific information. It is 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.
For 2009, the Malibu Hybrid offers more choices and style, including:
New 17-inch ultra bright aluminum wheels with touring tires as standard equipment
Five new exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, Golden Pewter Metallic and Silver Moss Metallic
Available engine block heater
Hybrid powertrain details
The Malibu Hybrid is equipped with the GM Hybrid system, consisting of:
A precision electric motor/generator unit replaces the conventional alternator. The 36-volt system is capable of 110 lb-ft (150 Nm) of auto-start torque
Innovative power electronics that precisely control the Motor/Generator System
A nickel metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery pack that is capable of delivering and receiving more than 10,000 watts of peak power. The pack consists of three 12V NiMH cassettes in series totaling 36 volts. Each cassette includes two 12V NiMH modules in parallel. They are located in the front of the trunk, taking up a minimal amount of cargo space
The GM Hybrid system is 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 6,400 rpm* and 159 lb.-ft. (215 Nm) of peak torque at 5,000 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
Using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine at wide-open throttle, such as during acceleration or a passing maneuver
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 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.
The instrument cluster of the Malibu Hybrid has been modified to advise the driver on operations of the hybrid powertrain:
AutoStop indicator in the tachometer notifying the driver when the engine is in AutoStop mode
ECO (Economy) indicator light notifying the driver when the vehicle is exceeding the EPA fuel economy estimates
Charge-Assist gauge that indicates whether the system is charging or providing assist power
The Driver Information Center (DIC) is programmed to provide messages specific to the Hybrid operation
The Malibu Hybrid is covered by GM's five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Additionally, the Malibu Hybrid's advanced nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack and other key hybrid components are covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.
Malibu style
The Malibu Hybrid has a strong stance, bold proportions and a profile that reinforce 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 connect to Chevrolet's rich performance heritage.
The Malibu's grille has a deep-set, detailed appearance and is flanked by bold, multi-plane headlamps. At the rear, twin round taillamps are signature Chevrolet design cues and, like the headlamps, have a rich, detailed appearance.
The attention to detail on the interior matches the Malibu's exterior, with an ergonomic design using 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.
The interior color choices also reflect the premium nature of Malibu's cabin. They include three available color schemes, including a pair of contrasting-color combinations, giving customers more options. Ebony, Titanium and a two-tone Cocoa/Cashmere combination are available.
Air conditioning, power door locks, power windows, an instrument panel driver information center, a pair of auxiliary power outlets, power-adjustable driver seat and an AM/FM radio with CD and MP3 playback are some of the Malibu Hybrid's standard interior comfort and convenience features. Also included is OnStar with Turn-by-Turn navigation and XM Satellite Radio.