2017 Chevrolet Malibu Overview
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu aimed to offer a blend of style, efficiency, and modern technology in the mid-size sedan segment. It presented a refreshed design and a focus on fuel economy, making it an attractive option for those seeking a practical and well-equipped daily driver.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2017 Malibu offered two primary turbocharged four-cylinder engine options, both paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission:
- 1.5L Turbocharged Ecotec: This engine delivered a balanced 160 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, prioritizing fuel efficiency. It was the standard powerplant for most trims.
- 2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec: For those seeking more spirited performance, this larger engine produced a robust 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering quicker acceleration and more confident passing power.
- Safety Features: Chevrolet equipped the 2017 Malibu with a comprehensive suite of available advanced safety technologies designed to help prevent accidents:
- Forward Collision Alert: Uses radar to detect potential frontal collisions and warns the driver.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision if the driver doesn't respond to warnings.
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Monitors lane markings and can provide gentle steering input to keep the vehicle within its lane and warns the driver if they drift unintentionally.
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert: Detects vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them when a lane change is unsafe.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver to approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- Surround Vision Camera: Provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvers.
- Trim Summary: The 2017 Malibu was offered in several well-defined trims, each building upon the previous one:
- LS: The entry-level trim, offering essential features and a solid foundation for the Malibu experience.
- LT: A popular mid-level trim, adding more comfort and convenience features, often including upgraded infotainment and exterior appointments.
- Hybrid: Focused on maximizing fuel economy with its advanced hybrid powertrain.
- Premier: The range-topping trim, delivering the most luxurious and technologically advanced Malibu experience, often including the more powerful 2.0L engine and premium amenities.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Stylish Exterior Design: The 2017 model received a significant exterior refresh, featuring sleeker lines and a more modern, sculpted appearance that differentiated it from its predecessors.
- Spacious Interior: Despite its mid-size classification, the Malibu offered a surprisingly roomy cabin, particularly for rear-seat passengers, thanks to its longer wheelbase.
- Infotainment System: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on most trims, integrating smartphone functionality seamlessly with the Malibu's infotainment system for easy access to navigation, music, and communication.
- Comfortable Ride: The Malibu generally provided a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well, making it suitable for long commutes.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu typically involves a reliable and relatively inexpensive ownership experience. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, are standard and generally affordable. The turbocharged engines, while efficient, may require a slightly more vigilant eye on fluid levels and can benefit from using high-quality synthetic oil as recommended by Chevrolet to ensure longevity. Insurance costs are generally competitive within the mid-size sedan segment, though specific rates will vary based on individual driver profiles, location, and coverage selections. The Malibu's focus on fuel efficiency means lower spending at the pump, contributing to overall cost of ownership.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Malibu presented a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Base Engine Power: While the 1.5L turbo offers good fuel economy, some drivers might find its acceleration adequate but not particularly exhilarating, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded. The 2.0L turbo is a significant upgrade for those prioritizing performance.
- Road Noise: While generally comfortable, some reviews noted that road noise could become noticeable at highway speeds, potentially impacting the quietness of the cabin for some occupants.
- Transmission Behavior: While the six-speed automatic is generally smooth, there were occasional comments about its responsiveness in certain driving situations, particularly during spirited acceleration.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system on some models could occasionally exhibit minor lags or slower response times compared to some competitors.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu stands out as a competent and stylish mid-size sedan with a strong emphasis on fuel efficiency and available modern safety technologies. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and integration of smartphone mirroring features make it a practical choice for families and commuters alike. While the base engine may not satisfy all performance desires, and minor noise concerns exist, the Malibu offers a well-rounded and generally positive ownership experience, especially when considering its available advanced safety features and efficient powertrains.