2014 Chevrolet Malibu More Fuel-Efficient, Tech-Savvy and Spacious
Posted by:
Julie Piatek
Jon Hahn, Chevrolet marketing manager for Malibu, addressed the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) audience to discuss highlights of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Malibu. The 2014 Malibu has new and improved features including a start/stop system to improve fuel economy, technological advancements to fit the needs of the connected consumer, and increased rear-seat legroom.
Hahn shared that the adjustments made in the new Malibu were direct recommendations from the customer, including input on performance, in-car connectivity, and style – all key features that make up the new 2014 Malibu.
Standard Stop/Start Powertrain
Malibu comes with one of two engines: 196-horsepower 2.5-liter four or turbocharged 259-horsepower 2.0-liter four. Fuel economy ratings for the normally aspirated engine are 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The turbo mill is rated at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
The 2014 Malibu is the first midsize sedan sold in the U.S. to offer a stop/start standard on the base model. The start/stop powertrain – available only with the 2.5-liter engine – is a seamless, button-less operation for consumer ease. It improves fuel economy as the engine automatically turns off when the vehicle comes to a stop. Then, once the driver lifts off the break, the engine automatically restarts, making the process extremely seamless for the driver.
In-Car Connectivity
The all-new Malibu offers new connectivity features that help drivers avoid distractions. Chevy’s infotainment system, MyLink, features a text-to-voice function that reads incoming text messages aloud so the driver can keep their focus on the road. Additionally, drivers can send limited, predefined responses (such as “I’ll call you back” or “I am driving”) without taking their eyes off the road.
To benefit certain iPhone users, Siri Eyes Free has also been integrated into the new Malibu. The Siri Eyes Free mode allows drivers to interact with their phones by only using their voice. To further prevent distractions, the iPhone screen is prevented from lighting up while Siri Eyes Free is activated.
Roomier and Revised Design
The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu also has new design elements including a modified front-end appearance, redesigned seats and a new center console.
In order to create a unified look across its sedan lineup, Chevy made the Malibu’s front-end appearance very similar to the 2014 Impala. The Malibu’s grille is wider and accented with chrome.
Chevy also made some changes to the Malibu’s seating, most notably by altering the back seats to allow more room for the passenger’s legs. The front seats also have more leg room and additional cushioning for maximum comfort.
In addition to the seating, the center console has a longer armrest and a storage area including two cup holders and room for two cell phones. The dashboard also has a 7-inch touch screen that is equipped with MyLink. In addition to its text-to-voice safety function, MyLink provides voice control for Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, offers Pandora Radio and streams audio.
Since November 2012, Malibu sales have risen by 41 percent – making November Malibu’s best month of retail sales since 1997. The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu starts at $22,965 and is now available for consumer purchase.
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