NEW YORK MOTOR SHOW: Malibu teased
Chevrolet's mid-size car will make its debut in April, possibly previewing a version from HoldenGeneral Motors has issued an official teaser photo of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, which is scheduled to make its premiere in New York next month.
Based on the side profile displayed in the picture, the next Malibu looks like it should be sleeker than the current model, although our spy pics from November suggest the teaser image flatters the new car a little. GM's press release accompanying the pic reveals the new Malibu will be larger than the current model, and fuel consumption will be pared down through the adoption of leaner-running drivetrains and the use of lighter materials.
The wheelbase has been stretched roughly 100mm for better rear-seat accommodation – a known shortcoming in the current Malibu. Broader use of high-strength steel in the construction of the new Malibu is expected to yield weight savings of around 130-140kg. Importantly, GM claims that the Malibu's styling will be a major selling point once the vehicle arrives in US showrooms sometime before the end of this year.
"Malibu's gorgeous styling is the result of a masterful understanding of proportions," said Ed Welburn, General Motors' vice president of Global Design. "The roofline has been stretched rearward giving a more sleek profile, while the front wheels have moved forward and front and rear overhangs have been reduced. Along with the sculpted body side, these cues help Malibu appear more dynamic and sophisticated."
What all this means for Holden, selling the Malibu into the local medium passenger car VFACTS segment, is yet to be ascertained. Fishermans Bend doesn't generally discuss future product.
Product Communications Manager for Holden, Mark Flintoft informed motoring.com.au yesterday that the new Malibu is under consideration, but that was as far as he could say.
"We're committed to taking the best cars from across the portfolio; we're looking at it right now, we're just not in a position to make any sort of announcement..." he explained.
In the meantime, GM will issue a trickle of information concerning the Malibu each week leading up to the NY motor show.
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