After spy photographers managed to capture the next-generation 2012Â Chevrolet Malibu from all directions on the outside, we finally get a glimpse of the car’s inside. And it doesn’t disappoint.
Notice the Camaro-inspired instrument panel, the same grippy steering wheel found in the Chevrolet Cruze and the all-around dual-cockpit design of the cabin that seem to give the car a personality you otherwise won’t find in a midsized sedan. We cannot wait to see this car in person when it’s all polished up and unveiled at an upcoming auto show — most likely New York next month. For a full gallery, visit Car and Driver.
Source: Car and Driver
Comments
Looks like they’re going with the Camaro theme… more than anything. Those gauge surrounds look like they’re straight out of the Camaro!
I don’t know if I like this change to the Malibu. I think they have lost much of the seamless look from the current version. If anything, the interior looks clunky and kind of messy. One part that stands out as particularly tough to look at is the vent-like assembly lining the middle of the dashboard. It almost looks like it should be covered by paneling, but the engineers haven’t gotten around to it yet. Also, I don’t like the shape of the middle vents. The rounded top is inferior to the current look, especially because it does not flow into the rest of the dashboard. Basically, this interior looks a lot like it came from 1998, and not 2012.
I will say that from the outside, this is a great looking car. I think it will be more appealing from that standpoint than the current version. It is really well-proportioned, which is a pleasant surprise given the horrendous lines that were predicted from the original design patents. Another complaint about the interior: it seems to be absolutely devoid of color. Maybe the lining that is “missing” will have a color that adds character to the interior.
Yeah, the interior is all black — but that’s usually how GM dresses most of its mules. The new ‘Bu is gonna be awesome from every and any way you look at it — especially its Camaro-inspired lines both inside and out.
Actually, the steering wheel has more in common with the Volt’s than the Cruze. But it appears they decided to skip out on the chrome center piece and painted “wings” on the trim plate this time. More than likely to save on cost.
I’m sure the interior coloring will come together once this thing starts being shown without camo. GM tends to always order “Black” when they want prototypes.