Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

The Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is GM's latest attempt to capture some of the mid-size family sedan market dominated by Toyota and Honda.

Unlike other competitive systems, this system is less complex, unable to run on electric power only. It uses the electric motor to provides extra power for accelerating and as a generator to charge the batteries when slowing down. GM refers to this system as a "Mild Hybrid."

The engine management computer automatically turns off the engine while the vehicle is stopped for better city mileage. In real world conditions the system works very well, offering reasonable fuel savings. And since it's not as complex, GM is able to offer the Malibu Hybrid at a reasonable price.

The Chevrolet Malibu has garnered much praise in the automotive press, having earned the title as " 2008 North American Car of the Year."

• Fuel Economy: City 24MPG / Highway 32MPG
• Displacement: 2.4 liter
• Gas Engine Power: 164 hp
• Gas Engine Torque: 159 lb.-ft @ 5000 RPM
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic
• Drive: Front Wheel Drive
• Tank Size: 16.0 gal
• Electric Motor: 36V
• Seating: 5
• Passenger Space: 112.8 cubic feet
• Cargo Space: 15.1 cubic feet