The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is being heralded as the vehicle that can help save the Big Three from their current slump, and well, after getting some seat time in the new Malibu, we’d be inclined to agree.

The 2008 Malibu is wrapped in a neatly styled package with a price that can’t be referred to as anything other than a value buy at a base MSRP of $19,995. There are four model options: the LS, LT, LTZ, and hybrid. Even in our LTZ model (i.e. top-of-the-line) with 18″ ultra-bright spun cast aluminum wheels, TAPshift manual shift control, remote vehicle starter, and other goodies, we were still well below $30,000.

There are also three engine options for the Malibu: the 2.4 Ecotech 4-cylinder, the 2.4L hybrid-electric, and the 3.6L V6. Fuel economy for the hybrid-electric is 24 city/32 highway, while the 4-cylinder Ecotec comes in at a photo-finish second getting 22 city/30 highway. The V6, for its 252 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, still puts up respectable and comparable numbers to its comptetitors (the Accord and the Camry) at 17 city/26 highway.

For the price, styling, performance and offered options, the Chevy Malibu will be a strong contender in the midsize sedan market. For more on the 2008 Malibu, watch our video from the first drive and browse the photo gallery.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Video:

You can also watch the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Video on YouTube.

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