First Drive: 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
If buyers accept the Malibu's prosaic appearance, there's a lot that impresses here. GM has said it'll price the Malibu "somewhere between $1000 and $1500 less" than a comparably equipped Accord or Camry. And it'll need every penny of that advantage if it hopes to make up ground in this ultra-competitive territory.
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu |
| Base price | $18,000-$25,000 (est) |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, fwd, 4-door, 5-pass |
| Engines | 2.2L/145-hp I-4, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl; 3.5L/200-hp V-6, OHV, 2 valves/cyl |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 7.8 (V-6, est) |
| On sale in U.S. | Currently |