2013 Chevy Malibu Eco Set to Return 38 MPGs

BRUNSWICK, MAINE (12/22/2011)(readMedia)-- Chevrolet has been hard at work crafting a more fuel-efficient lineup of cars, and its latest efforts will come to a head with the 2013 Chevy Malibu Eco. Due to reach Chevy dealerships in the first quarter of next year, the Eco trim of the Malibu will sport General Motors' eAssist mild-hybrid technology, returning a manufacturer-estimated 38 mpg on the highway. Three additional 2013 Malibu trim levels will arrive in the summer.

Facing a midsize market already congested with hybrid models from the likes of Ford, Toyota and Hyundai, as well as other fuel-efficient options like the diesel VW Passat, Chevrolet will compete by appealing to Americans' wallets. The automaker claims that the Chevy Malibu Eco will be priced below the competition without cutting out any of the modern technology that consumers demand, providing an up-market ride at a more down-market price.

"With the Malibu Eco, Chevy really did the research necessary to find out what economical and eco-minded buyers really want in an alternative-powertrain car," said Jeanette Downing, general manager of Maine Chevy dealership Goodwin Chevrolet Brunswick. "Maine drivers are no doubt very conscientious about the environment, but the Malibu Eco puts a priority on saving them money as well, both during the initial purchase and at the gas pump."

The Malibu Eco's estimated 38-mpg rating on the highway comes compliments of the eAssist system, which replaces the alternator with a compact electric motor that boosts acceleration and takes the load off of the gas engine. Meanwhile, the electric motor is powered by a 115-volt lithium-ion battery that is smaller than those found in full hybrids, which means more space for occupants and luggage.

While driving the Malibu Eco means fewer trips to the gas station, that convenience won't come at the expense of power like with many full hybrids. The car's 2.4-liter Ecotec direct-injection engine can reach 182 horsepower, which is more than units found in the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid and VW Passat TDI clean diesel.

Chevrolet's stylists gave the 2013 Malibu an aggressive, sleek exterior with a wide stance that keeps the car planted through the curves. The grille treatment is similar to that found on the popular Chevy Cruze compact car, and it features shutters that open and close based on speed to increase aerodynamics and efficiency.

Inside, the Chevy Malibu Eco is generous in standard tech features, including an Eco gauge that provides feedback on driving behavior in relation to fuel efficiency. Debuting on the Malibu Eco, Chevrolet MyLink will allow drivers to use a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone for voice control of phone calls and applications like Pandora internet radio, Stitcher SmartRadio and Gracenote.

"Chevy has found that eco-conscious buyers also tend to be tech-savvy, and I'm sure that features like Chevrolet MyLink will help close the deal when it comes time to make a purchase decision," Downing noted. "From its fuel savings to its surprising power and intuitive features, the Malibu Eco looks like it has found a sweet spot within the alternative midsize market."

About Goodwin Chevrolet Brunswick:

With nearly 80 years of serving Maine Chevrolet drivers, Goodwin Chevrolet Brunswick has long been the destination for customers that want the best selection and professional service for their Chevy vehicle. Goodwin Chevrolet Brunswick specializes in new and used Chevy sales, service and parts, as well as collision repair. Visit their Brunswick, Maine Chevy dealership at 195 Pleasant Street, check out their inventory online at www.goodwinchevroletmazda.com or call them at 888-236-7785. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoodwinChevroletMazda.