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"Unexpectedly, Chevrolet has updated the 2013 Malibu by transitioning it to a newer generation of its front-wheel-drive platform. This is the same chassis as the Buick Regal&amp;#039;s. Thus, the new Malibu&amp;#039;s wheelbase is shortened 4.5 in. (to 107.8), but its overall length of 191.3 in. remains about the same. Borrowing from Buick has its advantages, including a broader track that results in a Malibu that&amp;#039;s 2 in. wider. Interior and trunk volumes are said to be larger, making the midsize Malibu considerably more spacious than its competitors.   Video window may take a few moments to load...           Here at the New York show, Chevrolet surprised us by showing the new Malibu Eco model. Sales of the Eco model will begin early in 2012, while the LS, LT and LTZ models will follow in summer. The Eco model leads the way with fuel efficiency that&amp;#039;s estimated to be an impressive 26 mpg city/38 mpg highway.   The Eco model is unique in the lineup and will feature a 65-lb. eAssist micro hybrid drive system. Mated to a 180-horsepower 2.4-liter Ecotec inline-4 aluminum engine is a 15-horsepower electric motor wired to a lithium-ion battery pack. It provides start-stop functionality, regenerative braking and a 15-hp boost under acceleration.        2013 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ    Non-Eco models will receive an all-new 2.5-liter Ecotec inline-4 that will include the same features of the 2.4, such as dual overhead cams and direct injection. But these engines also gain enhanced authority continuously variable valve timing, a variable-displacement oil pump and an electronic thermostat. Power is expected to be just below 200 bhp. Both engines are mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T40 6-speed.   Efficiency, Efficiency, Efficiency   To better cut the air and improve fuel efficiency via reduced drag, four underbody panels are used, as are grille shutters that close parts of the front air opening at high speeds. We&amp;#039;ve seen the grille shutters before on the Cruze. Low rolling resistance tires will mount on 17 x 8.5-in. lightweight aluminum wheels. Disc brakes are standard, as are ABS and stability control. An electric-assist power steering rack comes with the borrowed Regal chassis, as does its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension.        2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco    The new 2013 Malibu isn&amp;#039;t a huge departure in styling, but gains some masculinity. There&amp;#039;s a considerable amount of detail in its styling, at least compared to the sparse current car. The interior receives ice-blue lighting treatment and now features a hidden compartment behind the 7.0-inch radio interface or optional nav screen. It contains a 6.0-inch deep lit storage area perfect for holding a phone, or wallet.   The new Malibu will be built in multiple locations around the world, including the Fairfax, Kansas, and the Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plants in the United States. Pricing hasn&amp;#039;t been announced yet, but expect a slight premium to be asked for the initial Eco model that will go on sale first. We&amp;#039;ll guess it&amp;#039;ll be priced just above $25,000.        2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco Interior   "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-shows/new-york-auto-show/news/a17163/2013-chevrolet-malibu/>