Chevrolet Malibu

General Motors has enhanced its midsize architecture for a more refined and luxurious ownership experience.

After too many years of giving the mainstream midsize family car segment the short shrift in favor of more-profitable light trucks, General Motors' Chevrolet division has attacked the market with renewed focus and vigor with a product designed to lead competitors rather than settle for also-ran status, said Mike Meloeny, Chief Engineer for the new Malibu.

Although the new car does not enjoy an all-new platform-it is built on the same midsize platform that underpins the outgoing Malibu as well as the Saturn Aura-the 2008 Malibu received significant upgrades. The changes were concentrated on making driving the Malibu a pleasant, even luxurious experience, Meloeny added.