Chevy Officially Launches Malibu Diesel In Europe

Back in July, GM Authority reported that Chevrolet was planning on launching a diesel-powered Malibu in Europe this summer. At that time, we didn’t know the specifics of the model — such as the powerplant it would use. Luckily, Chevy just announced the details of the Malibu Diesel.

Under the hood, customers will find GM’s high-pressure common rail fuel injected 2.0 liter turbo diesel (RPO code LBS) that’s capable of 160 hp at 4000 RPM and 258 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) of torque at a low 1,750 RPM. The four-banger mill features a variable-geometry turbocharger with an intercooler.

Both, the 2.0 liter diesel and 2.4 liter gas engine in the Malibu will are being offered with an automatic transmission as an option. Meanwhile, North American Chevy customers are eagerly awaiting a diesel-powered Cruze.

GM Authority Executive Editor with a passion for business strategy and fast cars.

Alex Luft

GM Authority Executive Editor with a passion for business strategy and fast cars.

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  • I just checked the German site and it says:

    2.0 Manual

    City: 6.6l/100km = 35.64mpg
    Highway: 4.2l/100km = 56.00mpg
    Combined: 5.1l/100km = 46.12mpg

    2.0 Auto

    City: 8.1l/100km = 29.04mpg
    Highway: 4.9l/100km = 48.00mpg
    Combined: 6.0l/100km = 39.20mpg

  • would those be the same numbers in USA? And I thought Automatics were almost as efficient as manuals? Looking for new car very soon...hope GM gets their act together for the USA market otherwise looking elsewhere. Other than mileage any advantage of a manual over automatic for diesels? Never owned one and it would be the first time if the cruze gets his next sprint 2q13.

  • I will order a new Malibu diesel the very day it is made available to the US market. I need a new car soon, but can wait a year or so until a mid-size American diesel sedan is available.