In addition to rolling out the standard version of the ninth-generation Malibu, Chevrolet has introduced the all-new 2016 Malibu Hybrid ahead of the model’s official debut at the New York International Auto Show this week.
The 2016 Malibu Hybrid boasts an all-new powertrain utilizing technology pulled from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt’s propulsion system. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will be linked up to a two-motor electric powertrain, delivering a combined power output of 182 horsepower. This same powertrain will be good for a combined fuel economy rating that exceeds 45 mpg, outclassing hybrid variants of the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata.
As we explained last week, the Malibu Hybrid will make the most of the heat provided from the 1.8-liter engine. The model will feature the first production application of Chevrolet’s new Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery (EGHR) technology, which will use the exhaust heat to warm up the car’s engine and cabin. The same tech will also improve engine warm-up times and ensure consistent fuel economy returns in cold weather.
Electric power in the 2016 Malibu Hybrid will be provided by an 80-cell, 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack capable of propelling it to speeds of up to 55 miles per hour on electric power alone. A regenerative braking system similar to that in the 2016 Volt will also be present, providing kinetic energy recovery during braking, which is then stored in the battery system to help maintain charge and power the car’s electronics systems.
The 2016 Malibu Hybrid will share safety improvements with the standard, gasoline-only version of the model such as its Teen Driver safety system, Front Pedestrian Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking, among others. It will be made at the same plant as the non-hybrid Malibu — GM’s Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas.
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Comments
Pretty: as if Impala, Volt and Regal had a baby.
Better than Fiat 200 and Fusion but lagging Optima and Mazda 6. Certainly a better design than Accord or the current Malibu. My main worry is that Malibu and Regal shared the same greenhouse.
Up to 55 on electric power sounds really promising.
looks pretty decent in these pictures. A good step forward. gm keep it up
A lean, green, sexy machine
I’m looking forward to more information on the battery “system”. Maybe includes some capacitors?