2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Inside Line does its thing on the $160k Acura NSX

The new Acura/Honda NSX may still be a couple of years away, but when talking about the sequel to such a dynamically legendary supercar, time won't stop speculation from ramping up and details from leaking. True to its name, Inside Line has put together what it believes is an accurate depiction – both visually and technically – of the newest challenger for Japanese supercar domination.

The first thing to know about the new NSX is that its emphasis will be on aerodynamics. Honda's F1 team may have yet to reach the pinnacle of success on the circuit, but that doesn't mean the company hasn't learned a few tricks in the process. For starters, the entire rear end of the car is tipped to act as a giant wing, generating prodigious amounts of downforce where soon-to-be archrivals Lexus LF-A and Nissan GT-R use heavy rear transaxles to keep the tail planted and the weight balanced. At an estimated 3256 lbs (you know, give or take), the NSX is also expected to come in a good 550 lbs lighter than Nissan's beast. Based on sources within Honda, Inside Line has come up with what they feel is an close prediction of how the NSX will look, and then proceed to call it boring. What lies underneath, however, is tipped to be a 5.5-liter V10 pumping more than 600 hp and 433 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the company's Super Handling AWD system.

With an anticipated $160,000 price tag, the new Honda supercar will have some dangerous competition. However developmental test mules of the NSX have already reportedly managed to lap the vaunted Nurburgring Nordschleiffe in a blitzschnell 7:37 on their first attempt. Once everything's tweaked to perfection, though, the NSX is easily expected to drop below 7:30. How far below will remain to be seen. With Japan, America and Europe's best vying for the top slot, the heat is on.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Inside Line does its thing on the $160k Acura NSX

The new Acura/Honda NSX may still be a couple of years away, but when talking about the sequel to such a dynamically legendary supercar, time won't stop speculation from ramping up and details from leaking. True to its name, Inside Line has put together what it believes is an accurate depiction – both visually and technically – of the newest challenger for Japanese supercar domination.

The first thing to know about the new NSX is that its emphasis will be on aerodynamics. Honda's F1 team may have yet to reach the pinnacle of success on the circuit, but that doesn't mean the company hasn't learned a few tricks in the process. For starters, the entire rear end of the car is tipped to act as a giant wing, generating prodigious amounts of downforce where soon-to-be archrivals Lexus LF-A and Nissan GT-R use heavy rear transaxles to keep the tail planted and the weight balanced. At an estimated 3256 lbs (you know, give or take), the NSX is also expected to come in a good 550 lbs lighter than Nissan's beast. Based on sources within Honda, Inside Line has come up with what they feel is an close prediction of how the NSX will look, and then proceed to call it boring. What lies underneath, however, is tipped to be a 5.5-liter V10 pumping more than 600 hp and 433 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the company's Super Handling AWD system.

With an anticipated $160,000 price tag, the new Honda supercar will have some dangerous competition. However developmental test mules of the NSX have already reportedly managed to lap the vaunted Nurburgring Nordschleiffe in a blitzschnell 7:37 on their first attempt. Once everything's tweaked to perfection, though, the NSX is easily expected to drop below 7:30. How far below will remain to be seen. With Japan, America and Europe's best vying for the top slot, the heat is on.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Inside Line does its thing on the $160k Acura NSX

The new Acura/Honda NSX may still be a couple of years away, but when talking about the sequel to such a dynamically legendary supercar, time won't stop speculation from ramping up and details from leaking. True to its name, Inside Line has put together what it believes is an accurate depiction – both visually and technically – of the newest challenger for Japanese supercar domination.

The first thing to know about the new NSX is that its emphasis will be on aerodynamics. Honda's F1 team may have yet to reach the pinnacle of success on the circuit, but that doesn't mean the company hasn't learned a few tricks in the process. For starters, the entire rear end of the car is tipped to act as a giant wing, generating prodigious amounts of downforce where soon-to-be archrivals Lexus LF-A and Nissan GT-R use heavy rear transaxles to keep the tail planted and the weight balanced. At an estimated 3256 lbs (you know, give or take), the NSX is also expected to come in a good 550 lbs lighter than Nissan's beast. Based on sources within Honda, Inside Line has come up with what they feel is an close prediction of how the NSX will look, and then proceed to call it boring. What lies underneath, however, is tipped to be a 5.5-liter V10 pumping more than 600 hp and 433 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the company's Super Handling AWD system.

With an anticipated $160,000 price tag, the new Honda supercar will have some dangerous competition. However developmental test mules of the NSX have already reportedly managed to lap the vaunted Nurburgring Nordschleiffe in a blitzschnell 7:37 on their first attempt. Once everything's tweaked to perfection, though, the NSX is easily expected to drop below 7:30. How far below will remain to be seen. With Japan, America and Europe's best vying for the top slot, the heat is on.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Is the BMW M6 CSL Still Coming

In early 2004 we had a small but very informative conversation with a highly-placed source at BMW. The person revealed that the then-new 6 Series would indeed go quite above 300kW. Much higher. It turned out reference was to the M6, all 378kW of it. That’s not the very interesting part by the way; your yawns are telling. That part is the story of a “lightweight” 6, something we might call an BMW M6 CSL. Our source confirmed the future production of such a model, but claimed it probably won’t be badged a CSL. And while we trust this source almost 100 percent, we can’t help but nervously look at the clock, relentlessly ticking away. New model 6 is due out in 2010, yet we still have no M6 CSL.

Meanwhile, a growing number of insiders are talking about an M3 CSL, slated for the year 2010. It is said to carry about 100kg less than the standard 4.0-litre V8, but adds at least 30 bhp in the process, giving it a 4.5 second shoot from zero to 60 mph. Excess fat will be trimmed ala the usual suspect material, carbon fiber. Slicker rubber as well as other minuses will ensure these performance figures. What of the Nürburgring though? A time of 7:45 is thought to be the target for that.

Horsing Around (Sponsored)

Eventing is the ultimate test of both horse and rider, and encompasses three disciplines: dressage, show jumping and cross country. It's also one of a handful of events where men and women compete on equal terms, proved by World Champion Zara Phillips. Land Rover has been a long-term supporter of World Champion Zara Phillips and now they've announced that the Land Rover Discovery 3 is the Official Vehicle to the British Eventing Team (William Fox-Pitt, Sharon Hunt, Mary King, Tina Cook and Daisy Dick) the very best of British luck this summer. And here's a video with the latest commercial, called "Horsing Around", in which Land Rover shows their support for the team. Pretty funny, don't you think? Enjoy! And you can find more info about Land Rover and the British Eventing Team on the official Land Rover website.

Two-wheel drive now offered on all Tucson models

If you don’t fancy a 4x4, then how about a 2xTucson? Hyundai has revised the Tucson line up for 2009, including an all-new two-wheel drive model priced at a level that would normally only buy you a compact family hatchback.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Two-wheel drive now offered on all Tucson models

If you don’t fancy a 4x4, then how about a 2xTucson? Hyundai has revised the Tucson line up for 2009, including an all-new two-wheel drive model priced at a level that would normally only buy you a compact family hatchback.

Damon Hill to drive Tesla Roadster

Formula One World Champion, Damon Hill, will be driving the Tesla Roadster, the first electric sportscar to go on sale in Europe, in the GreenFleet Capital Arrive ‘N’ Drive 08 event, which will start on London’s Horse Guards Parade on 31 July, 2008. The challenge aims to promote the latest innovations to reduce emissions and improve air quality in the British capital.

Is the BMW M6 CSL Still Coming

In early 2004 we had a small but very informative conversation with a highly-placed source at BMW. The person revealed that the then-new 6 Series would indeed go quite above 300kW. Much higher. It turned out reference was to the M6, all 378kW of it. That’s not the very interesting part by the way; your yawns are telling. That part is the story of a “lightweight” 6, something we might call an BMW M6 CSL. Our source confirmed the future production of such a model, but claimed it probably won’t be badged a CSL. And while we trust this source almost 100 percent, we can’t help but nervously look at the clock, relentlessly ticking away. New model 6 is due out in 2010, yet we still have no M6 CSL.

Meanwhile, a growing number of insiders are talking about an M3 CSL, slated for the year 2010. It is said to carry about 100kg less than the standard 4.0-litre V8, but adds at least 30 bhp in the process, giving it a 4.5 second shoot from zero to 60 mph. Excess fat will be trimmed ala the usual suspect material, carbon fiber. Slicker rubber as well as other minuses will ensure these performance figures. What of the Nürburgring though? A time of 7:45 is thought to be the target for that.

Tapir. MINI John Cooper Works

The second video from the MINI John Cooper Works series "Not Extreme enough?" has just been published on YouTube. Two Japanese tourists are visiting a zoo. Suddenly, a crazy guy jumps over a hedge into the tapir park of the zoo. He does some karate moves behind the tapir, followed by a prostate check.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

F3 star puts pro_cee’d through its paces

Rapidly rising F3 star Alex Waters has swapped his single-seater for the style and practicality of a Kia pro_cee’d when he is away from the track.

Time to change your desktop: new SL65 AMG Black Series wallpaper

Mercedes-Benz recently launched a dedicated website for the SL65 AMG Black Series, and it's loaded with goodies for anyone who can't get enough of the uber coupe. The site has detailed info on all of the Black Series' features, as well as some new studio photos that we haven't seen before. Best of all, they've provided six new desktop wallpapers available in normal, widescreen, and iPhone sizes. We've compiled these beautiful high-res photos in a gallery and included the original shots if that's not enough.

[Source: Mercedes AMG]



More Mercedes-Benz Cars in AutoCom:
+ In The Autoblog Garage: 2008 Mercedes SLK55 AMG
+ First Look: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series
+ Pics galore: clean diesel Mercedes BlueTec SUVs coming to America
+ Mercedes-Benz shows off 2009 G 55 AMG
+ Daimler Welcomes 500,000th Mercedes SLK
+ First Drive: 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
+ Geneva Auto Show 2008 Preview: Lorinser Nardo3 Mercedes SL
+ Leaked: facelift for Mercedes CLS
+ Mercedes GLK Undisguised on the Set of 'Sex and the City'
+ Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
+ Mercedes-Benz lets loose the new C-Class Estate
+ The New Mercedes C-Class C200K Elegance Make Sense in Less Opulent Form
+ First Drive: 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
+ 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 550: Two Door Supremacy
+ First Drive Experience-Mercedes C220 CDI Sport
+ First Drives Experience-Mercedes CLK 63 AMG Black Series
+ 2007 New York Auto Show-Big Power and New C-Class From Mercedes
+ 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
+ Car Reviews:Mercedes-Benz C350
+ When a Car Really Isn't a Car
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz E280 4Matic
+ C-Class next to get AMG’s huge V8
+ Mercedes SLR Gale-force convertibles

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Bottom Line

The mid-size Chevrolet Malibu sedan has been completely redesigned for 2008. New proportions and very handsome, attractive styling inside and out give the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a more upscale appearance, while a newly available 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic--optional on the top LTZ model--brings newfound refinement.

The more popular engine choice for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup is the economical 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at a frugal 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and comes only with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good enough with the four-cylinder, but if you plan to haul full loads or take on mountain passes, you may be wishing for the V-6, which is very responsive and much more refined than the V-6 in the previous Malibu.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has a very smooth, well-controlled ride and handles securely, though without much performance flair. If equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the Malibu has a fuel-saving electric power steering system, but V-6 versions come with a hydraulic power steering that gives a bit more road feel. The cabin is very well designed, with an attractive instrument panel and materials that are pleasing to the touch. Front seats were among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, and the backseat is quite roomy.

Three models grace the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu lineup: the base LS, midrange LT, and luxury-laden LTZ. The LS includes power accessories, keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while LTZ models get plenty of noteworthy features such as remote start, automatic climate control, a universal remote, and power-adjustable pedals, plus a number of appearance extras like LED taillamps and interior ambient lighting. An integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling interface isn't offered; there's no screen-based satellite navigation system available, either. But OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is included in addition to the other emergency and concierge services OnStar provides. The Malibu comes with a one-year subscription, but after that the owner must pay a fee.

Safety is a strong point for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu; it's earned the top five-star rating in all of the federal government's crash tests, along with top Good ratings from the insurance industry in frontal offset and side tests. Front side thorax airbags and side curtain bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard, plus anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is standard on all but the base Malibu LS.

The Bottom Line:
After years of being a second-stage alternative, the Malibu is a legitimate contender for best-in-class.

© Source: thecarconnection
We need your comments below >>

Time to change your desktop: new SL65 AMG Black Series wallpaper

Mercedes-Benz recently launched a dedicated website for the SL65 AMG Black Series, and it's loaded with goodies for anyone who can't get enough of the uber coupe. The site has detailed info on all of the Black Series' features, as well as some new studio photos that we haven't seen before. Best of all, they've provided six new desktop wallpapers available in normal, widescreen, and iPhone sizes. We've compiled these beautiful high-res photos in a gallery and included the original shots if that's not enough.

[Source: Mercedes AMG]



More Mercedes-Benz Cars in AutoCom:
+ In The Autoblog Garage: 2008 Mercedes SLK55 AMG
+ First Look: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series
+ Pics galore: clean diesel Mercedes BlueTec SUVs coming to America
+ Mercedes-Benz shows off 2009 G 55 AMG
+ Daimler Welcomes 500,000th Mercedes SLK
+ First Drive: 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
+ Geneva Auto Show 2008 Preview: Lorinser Nardo3 Mercedes SL
+ Leaked: facelift for Mercedes CLS
+ Mercedes GLK Undisguised on the Set of 'Sex and the City'
+ Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
+ Mercedes-Benz lets loose the new C-Class Estate
+ The New Mercedes C-Class C200K Elegance Make Sense in Less Opulent Form
+ First Drive: 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
+ 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 550: Two Door Supremacy
+ First Drive Experience-Mercedes C220 CDI Sport
+ First Drives Experience-Mercedes CLK 63 AMG Black Series
+ 2007 New York Auto Show-Big Power and New C-Class From Mercedes
+ 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
+ Car Reviews:Mercedes-Benz C350
+ When a Car Really Isn't a Car
+ 2007 Mercedes-Benz E280 4Matic
+ C-Class next to get AMG’s huge V8
+ Mercedes SLR Gale-force convertibles

F3 star puts pro_cee’d through its paces

Rapidly rising F3 star Alex Waters has swapped his single-seater for the style and practicality of a Kia pro_cee’d when he is away from the track.

Time to change your desktop: new SL65 AMG Black Series wallpaper

Mercedes-Benz recently launched a dedicated website for the SL65 AMG Black Series, and it's loaded with goodies for anyone who can't get enough of the uber coupe. The site has detailed info on all of the Black Series' features, as well as some new studio photos that we haven't seen before. Best of all, they've provided six new desktop wallpapers available in normal, widescreen, and iPhone sizes. We've compiled these beautiful high-res photos in a gallery and included the original shots if that's not enough.

[Source: Mercedes AMG]



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