The Chevrolet brand is about to get a new range-topper in the form of the Malibu four-door saloon. Previously not sold in Europe, the Malibu nameplate is a popular one in the US, though the car has been tweaked to suit European tastes.
Importantly, the new Malibu will be available with a choice of petrol or diesel engines, plus manual and automatic gearboxes. Engine sizes range from 2.0- to 2.4-litres, with power outputs of 164- and 169bhp respectively.
Nine exterior finishes and four interior colour combinations will be offered, along with 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel sizes. A total of eight airbags is standard across the range and the interior features an unusual hidden storage area behind the seven-inch touch-screen stereo display.
Little else is known about the line-up at this stage, though given the Malibu's dimensions (2,737mm wheelbase and 1,577mm track) it is likely to compete with the likes of the Ford Mondeo, new Hyundai i40 and even GM's own Vauxhall Insignia.
The Chevrolet Malibu makes its European debut at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show, at which time we expect to hear more about plans for right-hand drive production and on-sale dates.
Frankfurt Motor Show
Shane O' Donoghue - 23 Aug 2011