2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid review

1. Balanced performance 

The 2016 Chevy Malibu Hybrid offers great fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 46 mpg combined.  That’s comparable to newer hybrids' performance. The secret sauce is the EV tech borrowed from the Chevrolet Volt, namely the 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that amps up the power. It shows it in its 182 horsepower and the 7.5 seconds it takes the Malibu Hybrid to get from zero to 60 mph.  

2. Hybrid powertrain offers extra features  

The 2016 Malibu Hybrid depends on regenerative braking to keep its battery charged, meaning you don’t have to plug this machine in to benefit from the electric power. Better still, a pair of motors can run the Malibu for speeds up to 55 mph before the gasoline engine takes over. The Malibu is also Chevy’s first application of its exhaust gas heat recovery tech, which uses exhaust heat to warm the engine and cabin.  

3. Selection of infotainment and driver-assist features 

The 2016 Malibu Hybrid comes with a standard seven-inch color touchscreen that works when connected with Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and aux and USB-A ports. Look out for vehicles on the used car market that may have received the optional upgrade to bump the screen size to eight inches. Most driver-assist features came as add-ons at the time, so access to features like parking assist, blind spot alert, and lane keep assist will vary from vehicle to vehicle.     

4. Smooth handling 

The 2016 Malibu Hybrid is a nimble sedan that can tame sharp corners and go from zero to 60 in 7.4 seconds. Its hybrid system makes uphill climbs easy, making it a good contender for those living in the mountains or other hilly areas. Most bumps and potholes get absorbed before making it to the cabin thanks to the MacPherson strut-aided suspension, putting you and your passengers at ease. Strong ABS brakes lend confidence to the ride and boast a natural feel.       

5. A classic look with a sporty edge  

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is as easy on the eyes as it is on the road. On the outside, rounded corners and elegant styling make this vehicle look as contemporary as newer vehicles. The cabin, meanwhile, features a streamlined instrument panel and infotainment system, the latter with tactile knobs and buttons that let drivers focus on the road.