While we’re anxiously awaiting the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, GM’s bow tie brand is making some changes to the last model year of the outgoing model:
Deletions
- (80U) Red Jewel Tintcoat exterior color
- (DE1) manual rear window shade
- (PDM) Premium Mat Package
- (PCR) Interface Package
- (PDZ) Red Jewel Premium Package
- (PCQ) White Diamond Premium Package
- (PEF) Florida Edition Package
- (PDQ) HFV6 Engine Package
New Features
- 3LT V6 equipment group
- 2LZ V6 equipment group
- (GBE) Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior color (premium color, additional cost, not available at start)
- (PDQ) LS Up-level Package (retail orders)
- (PDD) Sunroof and Convenience Package (retail orders)
- (PDN) Sunroof and Power Package (fleet orders)
- (PDU) Power Package (fleet orders)
- (PDV) Sunroof Package (retail and fleet orders)
- (UJ5) Dual headrest DVD system LPO
Changes
- All wheels will have new RPO codes
- Interior trim (242) Ebony/Brick will have interim introduction through a promotional package
The GM Authority Take
These changes, while minor, should keep consumption of the current-generation Malibu at bay until the new one shows up. More importantly, it looks like the ‘Bu is finally getting the high-feature V6 LLT powerplant (PDQ) while the rest of GM’s premium (Buick, Cadillac, and 2012 Camaro) products are getting the LFX.
[nggallery id=310]
Comments
The look and style of the current Malibu is not its biggest issue. In fact people that look at it quite enjoy its styling. The problem, one word; infotainment. Technology wise its behind the fusion, and Honda (at least in the looks department). Its factory radio and rather “safe” interior is what is aging poorly for the current Malibu.
And GM sells very few V6 models, making this change the least important of them all.
Completely Agree. The interior itself is beautiful from a design perspective — but the infotainment features are certainly lacking. The USB connection barely supports the very basics of today’s other high-tech vehicles (Fusion) and no A2DP/Bluetooth streaming really sucks. Nevertheless, that will all be fixed with Chevrolet MyLink with the 2013 model!