Chevy Malibu Gets Refresh 18 Months After Debut

ChevroletChevroletUnited States of America, 1911 > present82 models
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is giving the new MalibuChevrolet Chevrolet Malibu Gen.8United States of America, 2012 > present15 versions
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a refresh in style just 18 months after the car went on sale. Additions include standard start/stop, more rear knee room and other updates. The refresh will be on sale this fall. 

“The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu builds on the strengths established by the all-new 2013 Malibu to make it a stronger choice for customers,” said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America.

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder gets variable valve lift control and start/stop to improve city fuel economy by 5% and improve highway economy by 3%. The 2.0-liter turbo engine also gets a 14% increase in torque to 295lb-ft of torque. 

The suspension has been retuned from settings from the new ImpalaChevrolet Impala Gen.10United States of America, 2014 > present4 versions
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. The changes include retuned rebound springs and new damper settings for less body roll

The list of changes include restyled front fascia that make the front look like the rest of the current Chevrolet lineup. It includes a larger lower grill with a hood that bends over the upper part of the grill. It also has wider air intakes in the grill. 

Inside, the Malibu gets 1.25in more rear knee room from reshaped front seats and a redesigned center console with a longer armrest.

There are new optional safety features including side blind zone alert and rear cross traffic alert.