The Chevrolet Malibu hybrid 2008

The Chevrolet Malibu has completely reinvented itself for 2008. With dramatic changes in style, refinement, and performance, this midsize family sedan is now much more than a status quo American automobile. Its huge improvements now allow it to compete in a segment full of heavyweights, most of which are Asian imports. And to move into a greener direction, Chevy now adds a hybrid version of the Malibu to its model line.

Powered by the standard 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine and a 36-volt electric motor/generator, the Malibu Hybrid produces a respectable 164 horsepower and 159 pound-feet of torque.

This is the same mild-hybrid Belt Alternator Starter system found in the Aura Green Line Hybrid. Fuel economy rates at an efficient 24 city/32 highway, but is surprisingly only two miles per gallon better than the gas-powered four-cylinder Malibu. The difference is so insignificant that it almost makes the hybrid system unnecessary.

that's a shame that chevy could only get an extra 2 miles per gallon out of the hybrid model. i think they should look into increasing it in order to make it worth buying the model.