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2013 Chevrolet Malibu Turbo

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Chevrolet is expanding their Malibu line-up with the addition of a new Turbo version for the LT and LTZ models. The new Turbos will go on sale in Fall 2012 at a starting price of $27,710 for the LT version and $30,925 for the LTZ.

The new Malibu Turbo is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that delivers a total of 259 HP and a peak torque of 260 lb-ft. This power is enough to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph. The engine is combined with a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic, a four-wheel-independent suspension system, hydraulic ride bushings, and premium electric steering gear.

"The all-new turbocharged engine showcases just how capable the new Malibu is, and the turbocharged Malibu is perfect for customers who want a midsize sedan that is fun to drive under a wide range of real-world conditions," said Mark Meyers, GM global vehicle performance manager.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Turbo.

Exterior and Interior

Just like the standard Malibu, the new Turbo combines the aggressive stance of a sports car with the clean, classic lines of a high-end luxury car. The model was built on a wider track and a shorter wheelbase, and features a cool aerodynamic package that helps increase fuel efficiency by decreasing resistance.

Standard content on Malibu Turbo LT models:

18-inch aluminum wheels
Chevy MyLink, with a seven-inch color touch-screen radio, Bluetooth, and USB port
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Remote start
Eight-way power driver seat with power lumbar
Tilting and telescoping steering column with steering wheel controls for audio and cruise control
Ice-blue ambient lighting.

Standard content on Malibu Turbo LTZ models (in addition to the LT features):

LED tail lamps
Leather-appointed seats
Heated front seats
Available 19-inch aluminum wheels.

Engines

The new Malibu Turbo is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that delivers a total of 259 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque. This power is enough to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph, but also deliver an impressive fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Technologically advanced elements found in the engine:

Twin-scroll turbocharger that virtually eliminates turbo lag and generates maximum boost of 20 psi
Air-to-air intercooler that reduces the pressurized air charge’s temperature for optimal performance
A356T6 aluminum cylinder head cast with Rotocast process – similar to the Corvette ZR1’s heads – for greater strength and improved airflow
Sand-cast aluminum engine block that features cast-in iron liners and structural enhancements to enable higher power with reduced noise and vibration
Aluminum pistons with jet-spray cooling, which enhances performance and longevity
Modular balance shaft system in the oil pan for greater refinement
Two-stage thermostat and two-stage variable-displacement oil pump that enhance the overall operating efficiency of the engine
Specially tuned exhaust for reduced backpressure and improved sound quality.

Prices

The new Chevrolet Malibu Turbo will go on sale in Fall 2012 at a starting price of $27,710 for the LT version and $30,925 for the LTZ.

Competition

Key competitors for the new Chevrolet Malibu include models like the Hyundai Sonata, the Honda Accord, and the Nissan Altima. The Sonata will be updated for the 2014 model year when it will receive a new 274-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine that will endanger the sales of the new Malibu Turbo due to its increase in power. The new Accord is also a bit more powerful than the new Malibu Turbo - it gets a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 278 HP - as is the 2013 Altima with its 270 HP 3.5-liter V6.