The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid 4-door sedan has a combination gas/electric "mild" hybrid system. According to Chevy, a "mild" hybrid uses a smaller electric motor which is typically initiated only at stop lights. Chevy chose to use a "mild" hybrid system in smaller vehicles and focuses on implementing the "full" hybrid on big trucks and SUVs.

New and Improved
The 2008 Hybrid version of the Malibu is its inaugural model year so the only important note is that all 2008 Malibus are larger than their previous incarnations. This is another point of differentiation Chevy makes with its hybrid sedans in comparison to other companies' smaller hybrid cars.

Standard Features
Standard for this hybrid is the 2.4-liter, 164-horsepower 4-cylinder engine with 4-speed automatic transmission. It also comes with a CD player, AC, and power seats, locks and windows.

Optional Features
Its top model, the Malibu LTZ, possess a 6-speed automatic transmission in the 4-cylinder engine. This option still gets 31 MPG highway, and if you move up to the six cylinder you can still average 26 MPG highway.

Why We Like It
Chevy has made a genuine effort to improve the Malibu.  In doing so they have created a bigger car with better gas mileage, and that is not a simple feat.