While North America awaits its new-elongated 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, Chinese consumers have officially been shown what’s next for the Malibu nameplate for their market with SAIC General Motors officially launching the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu in China with pricing.
The 2016 Malibu marks the first of many new models to enter China through the end of 2016, but Chevrolet has oozed enthusiasm over the 2016 Malibu for China, which marks a significant departure from the previous Malibu.
To our eyes, it may look like a refresh of our outgoing Chevrolet Malibu, but here it’s all-new for China. The front fascia sees the most revisions with a new grille and “eagle-eye” headlamps, which designers say emulate traditional American styling with contemporary flair.
Inside, the interior and materials receive a much more premium look, and Chevy touts its use of French dual stitching, a dual-cockpit design and increased storage space (up 28 percent) for consumers.
But, this is China, and connectivity is king. That is why Chevrolet has used the 2016 Malibu as the launching pad for its MyLink 2.1 system. The system is now faster, sleeker and offers wireless connectivity with dual-screen support. And, it’s all packaged with a class-leading eight-inch touchscreen.
The 2016 Malibu arrives with three engine choices for consumers. Two naturally aspirated four-cylinders, a 2.4L and 2.0L, power base vehicles, but a 1.6L EcoTec turbocharged four-cylinder is available. Each engine is paired to a six-speed automatic tuned for optimal fuel economy.
Chevrolet announced pricing for the 2016 Malibu will start at 164,900 RMB, or roughly $25,967 USD, with options bumping the sales price up to 199,900 RMB, or $31,478 USD, for a fully-loaded model. The 2016 Malibu is available for pre-order at Chevrolet dealers across China.
Comments
I like the grill more than the US varient. GM spends a lot on regional products (Insignia, Malibu US, Malibu China/ Cruze US, Cruze China, Astra); meanwhile, Ford is growing with just one world car.