2004 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from UK and Ireland

ABS module failed; replaced under warranty by dealer.

Steering column bearing replaced, also under warranty.

Rotors were warped at 35K, but I attribute that to the previous owner, not the car.

This Malibu is definitely a step up from the old one (I also had a 2000) in every way: better fit/finish, more powerful engine, bucket front seats (thank God), and my personal favorite, highly improved suspension.

The Malibu's very big inside, even by my standards (I'm 6'1, 220 pounds), though I wish Chevy hadn't sacrificed a traditional e-brake for the center console... makes it hard to have fun in the rain.

Despite the aforementioned suspension improvements...205/15/65R?! Seriously? Come on, why didn't you give us 215/17/55 like Mazda did with the 6? It could've really been a favorite for younger people like myself.

It's an understated car (i.e. an old person's car), so I don't get a lot of respect for driving it, especially since I used to have a potential rice rocket ('04 Corolla)...but that thing was so uncomfortable that I was tired after 20 minutes of driving.

Fuel Economy: I get about 18-19MPG on NYC streets, which isn't terrible for the displacement. It's reconciled by my frequent 31MPG highway though - a great, comfortable cruiser.

Interior: Well, it is boring... and the materials weren't as good as the plastics in my '04 Corolla... but '06 Chevy models and up are looking fantastic.

Will I buy another Chevy? Sure. I'd love a Cobalt SS (turbo, no SC), but realistically I'm looking for '06-'08 coupes.