Oman motoring: A Chevrolet Malibu love story

Lifestyle Sunday 11/December/2016 18:35 PM
By: Times News Service
Oman motoring: A Chevrolet Malibu love story

There is a sense of confidence when you drive any Chevrolet model. I still remember driving the Chevrolet Malibu in 2014 for close to two days and enjoying the way it drove like a car that was aiming higher than it needed to, with exceptionally excellent handling.
The 2017 Malibu is no exception. It is thoughtfully engineered with everything you expect and more. I have finally had the chance to get behind the wheel, and I must say, it is simply excellent.
The Malibu is the strongest contender General Motors has had in this mid-size segment in many, many years. The new model takes cues from the handsome Impala, but with better proportions, a new, longer body, and better interior layout. Malibu comes with a host of technological offerings and the list starts with Apple CarPlay, 4G LTE wireless connectivity, a Teen Driver function that helps parents coach their youngsters, and even a hybrid drivetrain said to be capable of full-electric operation up to 55mph.
Additional safety hardware and software come at upper levels, with full adaptive cruise control, front automatic braking, semi-automatic parking assist, and an electronic parking brake available. I must say tech was a shortcoming in the previous Malibu, but now it’s leapfrogging much of its competition.
From the outside, Malibu impresses, gaining its size back with a solid 93mm in the wheelbase, while also managing to be 130kg lighter than before. Windswept body lines and an agile stance give this midsize car a sleek look while helping to provide a surprisingly sporty ride.
And with bright and eye-catching available LED daytime running lamps and available LED tail lamps, Malibu offers the perfect blend of form and function.
Spacious Interior
Malibu has a spacious interior carefully tailored to your needs and the needs of your passengers. An intuitive centre console puts controls where you need them, while built-in USB ports and an available wireless charging station offer plenty of options for keeping your compatible devices connected and charged.
High on Performance
The Malibu comes with a 186hp 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed automatic. It offers decent power around town, and never felt lacking compared to its midsize rivals. A 250hp turbo 2.0-litre is coming in January next year for those who want more power. The steering is pretty light and it makes the car easy to drive. The brakes are very good too, as are the ride quality and cabin quietness, easily among the best in the segment. The new Malibu is a great effort from GM Motors. You get more than what you pay for and the car is a joy to drive.
Specs: Engine: 4-cylinder, 2.5L Horse power: 185hp Transmission: 6-speed automatic Passive start engine (push button) Electric cruise control Automatic headlamps Alloy Wheels
Distributor: OTE Group Toll Free number: 800 50002 chevrolet.oteautos.com
[email protected]