Next-Gen Chevy Malibu Spied With Audi-Inspired Style
The next-generation Chevrolet Malibu is shaping up to be one stylish sedan.
The 2016-2017 Malibu has been spied testing sporting some major style changes. The familiar split-grille can be found up front and while the camouflage is designed to conceal the shape of the vehicle, it appears the hood will slope downward more aggressively than the current model.
SEE ALSO: 2014 Chevrolet Malibu Review
The bigger surprise is the Audi A7-like styling as we look towards the rear of the next-generation Malibu. A sleek roofline that leads to a small trunk lid hints that the Malibu’s new styling will be more revolutionary than evolutionary. Similar to how Ford has given the Fusion a more European-inspired design, it is likely that one of Chevrolet’s best-selling cars will get a similar treatment.
The new Chevrolet Malibu will continue to be built on the automaker’s Epsilon 2 platform and the 2.5-liter will stay as the base engine. Expect an updated, more powerful 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine as a range-topper while a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant will slot in between. An eight-speed automatic transmission will be available at launch with a nine-speed transmission to follow.
GALLERY: 2016-2017 Chevrolet Malibu Spy Photos
Discuss this story at our Chevrolet Malibu forum
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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More Generic Styling from GM.....amazing how they can say: "this is the best we can do".
If anything they don't look Audi like, but more like a 2012 Acura TL. But overall, cannot really criticize as the final product is not even in production.