Similar to a design pioneered by Mazda, the left-side cupholder is handy when you need it and out of the way when you don't. The instrument panel contains analog gauges, including a tachometer. Ease of use played a big part in the layout of the interior. The gearshift lever is tall, but I found its height occasionally bothersome. Some pieces of the dash have a hard surface that is less inviting than a softer finish.
Standard equipment includes a tilt steering wheel, anti-lock brakes and dual airbags.
While you won't find yourself flinging the Malibu into turns because it grips the road like a sports car, it rides smoothly and feels reasonably athletic. Chevy equipped it with a four-wheel independent suspension that uses some aluminum parts as well as aluminum brake calipers that are 20 percent lighter. The Malibu is geared toward buyers who prefer function and value over flashy styling. Competent, friendly and reasonably priced, it should appeal to a lot of buyers. The basic warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles.