The Holden Malibu, a rebadged Chevrolet Malibu, was sold in Australia from 2013 to 2017. This nameplate was first used on a midsize car that started as a trim level of the Chevrolet Chevelle and later became an independent model line in 1978. It was initially a rear-wheel-drive but was changed to a front-wheel layout in 1997. It enjoyed a seven-generation stint in the North American market before it was introduced to the global market in its eighth generation. The four-door Malibu has continually been used in fleet service, with the largest buyer being the law enforcement sector.
The first-generation models had a more lavish interior. It is a rare collector's item so if you find one produced between 1964 and 1978, count yourself lucky.
The Malibu Sold In Australia (2013-2017)
The Chevrolet Malibu released in Australia to replace the Holden Epica was based on the GM Epsilon platform. This particular Malibu, the same one marketed internationally, made its debut as a show car at the Auto Shanghai China in 2011.
It was available in several trim models, namely, the LS 1LS, LT 1LT, the LT 2LT, ECO 1SB, ECO 2SA, and LTZ 1LZ. The LS 1LS was not available for fleet models, while the LT 1LT was the base model for fleet models. The LS 1LS was also not equipped with the large touchscreen display, which was available in all the other models.
The engines fitted in the Malibu varied with the country or market. In Europe, it was offered with a 2.4L petrol engine and a 2.0L diesel engine. There were two engine options available for the Australian-spec Malibu. The first one was a (1,958 cc) 2.0L VCDi four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that could achieve a maximum power of 117 kW and a torque of 350 N.m. There was also a (2,384 cc) 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder petrol engine that was rated 123 kW and a torque of 225 N.m. The engines were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Malibu’s safety suite included dual-stage front airbags, head, knee, and side-impact airbags. Roof airbags with rollover protection were standard across the model range. The base CD model’s standard equipment included ABS, automatic air-conditioning with climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, brake assist, cruise control, cloth trim, dusk-sensing headlights, EBD, ESP, engine immobiliser, parking distance control rear, power mirrors/steering/windows, reversing camera, seatbelt pretensioners for the front seats, trip computer, and traction control system.
The higher level CDX model adds dual-temp zone auto climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring, front fog lights, heated front seats, leather-accented seats, leather gear knob and steering wheel, power front seats, LED rear lights, and rain-sensing wipers.
GM fitted the Holden Malibu with updated technology to make it more competitive. In addition, they also improved the cars' fuel economy and gave it a sportier front end.
When it came to the interior, the Malibu got a more comfortable armrest. A pair of cup holders and cell phone bins replaced the previously covered storage area.
The Holden Commodore ZB succeeded the Holden Malibu when it was discontinued in Australia in 2017.
Is the Malibu Worth a Buy?
Yes. For one, the car is fuel-efficient, making it ideal for someone on a budget. The fact that Holden discontinued the Malibu doesn’t make it less desirable. Every vehicle is an asset if you can maintain it properly. Maintaining a Holden Malibu entails replacing worn out parts with new ones, which you may source through Carpart.com.au. You may also visit our website for the latest listings or send us a car parts request message for those hard-to-find auto replacement parts.
-Eric Anyega