2004 Chevrolet Malibu Base review from North America

I have had no problems so far with this car.

When I went looking to trade in my Cavalier, I was dead set against a Malibu, having read the comments on this sight. However, the 2004 Malibu is redesigned from the ground up, using the Saab 9-3 chassis.

The four cylinder engine at 140hp offers ample power for around town and will get you going on the freeway, albeit a little noisy on acceleration. Once you reach speed, it quiets down nicely. I average 29 mpg on a highway/city mix and have reached 38mpg on straight highway driving.

This is a very comfortable car to drive long distances in. The seats are supportive and the ride superb. GM put a lot of thought into the cabin of this car, with all controls easily found. It has electric power steering which allows you to turn with one finger at low speeds, yet tightens up nicely at higher speeds.

For being a base model, this car is loaded up nicely. It has a trip computer, all power, cruise, excellent stereo, automatic headlights, and lots of nice little storage compartments.

The trunk is very roomy, more so than the Impala, which I also test drove that day.

If you want a nice car for the money (19830 sticker, pd 18200 w/rebate), you can't miss here. A very comfortable economical mid size car!