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View Full Version : 08 Chevrolet Malibu I4 to be offered with the Six-Speed Auto


xcel
04-22-2008, 05:19 PM
The new LTZ matches the BAS hybrid without the BAS. (http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?p=88687)

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/2008_Chevrolet_Malibu_LT.jpgWayne Gerdes - CleanMPG (www.cleanmpg.com) - April 22, 2008

2008 Chevrolet Malibu – Maybe not the 40 + we really need but a mid-sized GM vehicle leading the segment in FE is exactly the direction they need to head.

DETROIT – The 2008 Malibu will now be available with an efficient four-cylinder/six-speed automatic combination offered on the upper end LTZ model. With EPA estimates of 24/32 mpg city/highway, it is now the class leader for non-hybrid drivetrains besting the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion in the segment.

A GM sourced 2.4L Ecotec engine is partnered with the new GM/Ford corroborated 6 speed automatic transmission to deliver a nice balance of performance and increase in fuel efficiency.

“Matching the 2.4L engine with a six-speed delivers a lively driving experience that is unlike any other four-cylinder in the segment,” said Peper. “The unique performance characteristics of the six-speed transmission enhance the feeling of a quieter, more refined driving experience.”

The 2.4L Ecotec engine uses variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel economy. The engine is rated at 169 horsepower, which is comparable to the four-cylinder engines from competitors including Honda, Toyota, Nissan and Ford.

Matched to the 2.4L engine is the recently developed Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed transmission. Clutch-to-clutch technology and other high-tech features are employed to maximize its performance while simultaneously minimizing its overall size. A wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio enables strong launch acceleration, while carefully spaced “steps” between the gears balance performance and fuel economy. The driver can manually tap up or tap down through the gears for more control.

brick
04-22-2008, 05:46 PM
C'mon, give it 2-mode. You know you want to!

Earthling
04-22-2008, 06:05 PM
A 2.0 liter would be big enough. I get around just fine with a 1.6 liter 4-valves per cylinder '99 Civic.

Harry

laserred02
04-22-2008, 10:33 PM
Your 99 civic is a lot smaller than a new Malibu. Plus the engine size is consistent with the class.

R E P U B L I C
04-22-2008, 11:00 PM
hmmm....................... Vibe or Malibu?

Bruce
04-23-2008, 08:23 AM
hmmm....................... Vibe or Malibu?

Vibe for FE, usable cargo space, reliability and stick availability. Vibe is a rebadged Matrix, which is a Corolla variant, and all have bulletproof reliability.

Malibu for....domestic parts content, I guess.

99HXCivic
04-23-2008, 10:14 AM
I like it better than the ugly Camry or Accord!

Daox
04-23-2008, 10:30 AM
Well that wasn't too hard now was it? Lets think a bit instead of slapping a $2000 mild hybrid system on it. Kudos to GM for thinking. Too bad its only on the LTZ. If they can get good reliability they'd be right on par with the foreign cars (assuming reliability would increase resale). Keep up the good work IMO.

xcel
04-23-2008, 10:44 AM
Hi Tim:

___My sentiments exactly! It is nice to see GM leading in a particular car segment, let alone trucks which they do a pretty good job at there too.

___My only concern with the Malibu LTZ using the I4 w/ 6-speed AT is its starting price of $26,545 including destination. You can pick up a more powerful and far more fuel efficient TCH (33/34 City/Highway) for $26,010 including destination and she has quite a few features and options of her own with HSD being top of the list of course.

___Good Luck

___Wayne



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