Yesterday, we revealed the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu to you here at the New York Auto Show, and we were pleasantly surprised by the announcement of the 38 mile-per-gallon Malibu Eco model. Today, we bring you live shots of both cars now that the flashbulbs have dimmed enough to allow us a better look at both models.
As stated earlier, the new Malibu now rides on General Motors’ Epsilon II architecture, and in this application, it’s at once shorter and wider than the departing model. It’s also a good bit more handsome than the already well-sculpted outgoing car. While the front-end is evolutionary, with its twin port grille and similar headlamps, it’s the rear end that gains the most definition. Many felt the previous-gen model looked great until it got to the rear-end, which sort of felt like the designers ran out of inspiration when they got past the rear window. The new car remedies this with three-dimensional taillamps inspired by the Camaro (and looking more than a bit like the Lexus GS from certain angles).
The eAssist mild-hybrid Eco model doesn’t look appreciably different from the standard 2.5-liter range, despite registering 26 mpg in the city and 38 out on the highway. Alterations include 17-inch wheels on low rolling-resistance tires, four underbody shields that cover about 50 percent of the vehicle’s dirty bits, as well as model-specific side mirrors and the expected badging.
Inside, more Camaro influence can be seen thanks to items like the ‘squircle’ gauges. Materials are noticeably richer than before, and high-end detailing like contrasting ice blue stitching on the LTZ’s leather seats and increased ambient lighting lend the cabin a more premium aura.
Additionally, we’re looking forward to getting some time with Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system, as well, but it looks promising, with a crisp high-resolution screen (with integrated storage beneath for phones and such) and the ability to link-in to online music services like Pandora and Stitcher.
Check both models out for yourself in our high-res galleries below.
