As we expected, GM has officially introduced the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu in South Korea with a diesel engine.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Diesel utilizes GM’s 1.6L Turbo Diesel LH7 engine, the same motor as is currently available in the Chevy Cruze, Equinox, and second generation GMC Terrain. In the refreshed Malibu, the engine makes 136 horsepower and a maximum 236 pound-feet of torque (32.6 kg.m), coupled to GM’s third-generation, 6-speed automatic transmission.
But the beauty of a diesel engine is not horsepower, but rather its wide torque band and impressive fuel economy. And in this department, the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Diesel nets a fairly impressive 32 MPG (13.7 km / l) in the city, 41.6 MPG (17.7 km / l) on the highway, and a combined of 36 MPG (15.3 km / l), becoming one of the most fuel-efficient models in its class.
The 1.6L Turbo Diesel LH7 engine was developed in Europe and is famous for its silent operation, which has earned it the nickname of “Whisper Diesel”. It joins two other powerplants in the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu – the new 1.3L I-3 Turbo as the base as well as the familiar 2.0L Turbo LTG as the up-level offering. In that regard, the diesel seems to be the ideal choice for consumers looking for an efficient sedan with a wide torque curve.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Diesel will be available in South Korea in two trim levels – LT and LT Premium. Starting prices are as follows:
- Malibu Diesel LT: KRW 29.36 million ($26,200 USD)
- Malibu Diesel LT Premium: KRW 31.95 million ($28,500 USD)
Whether the diesel model will come to the United States is currently unknown, but we remain hopeful – especially given that the Cruze Diesel will be discontinued.
Stay tuned to GM Authority as we bring you the latest Chevrolet news and Malibu news.
Comments
If the Cruze is dead, will the US see this Malibu diesel also?
Common sense would say yes… but the current GM hasn’t had much of that as of late, so who knows?!
No they clearly have not. Anyone seen the new Silverado HD?
It makes no sense whatsoever to change / add or exchange anything on a sedan now guys
Just read the sedan is new dinosaur
Why invest in changes?
Because $6 gas will happen much sooner than that $25k self driving electric car. It’d be nice to keep something competitive around to bridge the gap.
The real question for me is if they do put the diesel in for NA does it get the same 6 speed as Korea, a cvt or keep the cruze setup with 9 speeds.