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Next to the 2013 Malibu, Chevrolet also brought at the New York Auto Show the Eco version, a model that comes equipped with new fuel-saving eAssist technology. The new Eco version will be sold next to the Malibu LS, LT and LTZ version starting the summer of 2012. "The Malibu ECO is a smart choice for customers who want excellent fuel economy without the price premium of popular hybrid sedans," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "The Malibu ECO’s 38-mpg highway estimate is comparable with those hybrids. Malibu ECO exemplifies Chevrolet’s drive to use technology that delivers high-value, gas-friendly performance. In fact, the Malibu ECO delivers the fuel economy of a compact car in a midsize sedan." The eAssist system uses a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery and an electric motor-generator to enable regenerative braking electric assist and start-stop functionality. With this system the new Malibu Eco will deliver an impressive 26 mpg on city driving and 38 mpg on the highway. Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Eco. The exterior and the interior The new Malibu Eco will be further distinguished by a standard Malibu models by an outside rearview mirrors designed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency, taillamps shaped for aero performance without design penalty, four underbody panels – more commonly found on premium-priced cars – cover approximately 50 percent of the lower portion of the vehicle and provide an aerodynamically clean flow path under the vehicle and standard 17-inch wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires engineered to improve fuel economy. The engine The Malibu Eco is powered by a 2.4 liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 180 HP mated tot he next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is combined with Chevrolet’s latest eAssist system that uses power stored in the air-cooled, lithium-ion battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. The eAssist system captures up to 20 HP of energy that would be normally lost during braking and uses it to recharge the lithium-ion battery. The system also shuts down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, further improving fuel economy. While in fuel shut-off mode, the motor-generator unit continues spinning along with the engine to provide immediate and smooth take-off power when the driver presses on the accelerator. As the vehicle comes to a stop, the engine’s start-stop function is active when the motor-generator unit brings the engine to a smooth stop to position it properly for a smooth restart when the brake is released. Equipped with the new eAssist system, the Malibu Eco can travel as much as 550 miles between fill-ups. PricesThe new Malibu Eco will go on sale in the summer of 2012. Prices will be announced at a later date. The competition Chevrolet announced that the new Malibu Eco will target models like: Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The Sonata features a new Hybrid Blue Drive - hybrid system that combines a 2.4-liter Theta II engine (169 hp at 6,000 rpm and 156 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm) with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 40 HP electric motor. The Camry Hybrid Camry combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive motor for a fuel economy of 34 mpg on the highway, its true not as impressive as the Malibu Eco. The Accord will be offered with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 177 HP and a 3.5 liter V6 engine with an output of 271 HP. eAssist technology improves the car’s fuel economy Looks better on both exterior and the interior Fuel economy is better than on the competitors It takes too long to be put on sale 16 comments: Chevrolet Malibu ECO It is maybe so impressive on its aesthetic design even on its exclusivity, but I must say that it was very irritating to know that it is on an electric motor, which is unreliable today!
 The dashboard looks so awesome and the handling of this Malibu ECO is so nice, but I’m not so impressed with this for the fact that it is a hybrid car.
 Well, I think this is not the best performance of hybrid car!hmm. I was disappointed with this model! We all know that it hybrid car cost too much, so spending you money on this crap is just a waste!
 Honestly, I was impressed with the detailing of this car. I think its kind of cool especially the luxurious interior! However, for the performance I think its not that good I was looking forward for a higher power output.
 The mos t awaited Chevy Malibu is finally here and I’m impressed with the fuel economy of this car. It really looks good compare to its competitor though I think it would be long enough before it will be put in sale.
 Yeah, you’re right. Th Malibu’s primary target clients are those belonging to the upper C crowd, so it would be a bad idea to price it too high.
 Maybe the reason that they didn’t opt for a full fledged hybrid system is that it would be too expensive for the Malibu’s target. Besides, this one still does offer a significant amount of fuel efficiency.
 I must admit that the car looks rather good. But I am still a bit confused as to why Chevy didn’t opt for a full fledged hybrid, which would have made it e even more popular.
 Wait, the sedan actually does look good for this one. It also looks rather spacious for me and will definitely be to the liking of Malibu fans.
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Posted on
12.21.2011 @ 02:25