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Reviewing the 2011 Chevy Maibu

WHAT IT IS

The Malibu is Chevy's value-priced, mid-sized family sedan. It starts at $21,975 for an LS with four-cylinder engine and runs to $27,015 with 3.6 liter V-6. Its main domestic-brand rival is the $19,695-$28,505 Ford Fusion, which leans a bit more toward the sporty side of the aisle - and also offers an available all-wheel-drive system, which the front-wheel-drive-only Malibu doesn't.

WHAT'S NEW FOR 2011

Big updates for 2011 include a standard six-speed automatic (with manual shift control feature) and updated OnStar with free (for six months) "turn-by-turn" navigation assistance.

WHAT'S GOOD

Solid value; "American car" good looks. Comfortable, big car ride in a mid-sized package. Roomier interior than Fusion. 33 mpg on highway with Ecotec four-cylinder engine.

WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD

Not as sporty/fun to drive as the Fusion. No manual transmission option. No all-wheel-drive option. No available GPS.

UNDER THE HOOD

The '11 Malibu is available with either a 2.4 liter "Ecotec" DOHC four-cylinder that produces 169 hp or (optionally) a 3.6 liter, 252 hp DOHC V-6. Both Malibu engines are paired with a six-speed automatic driving the front wheels.

EPA mileage figures for the '11 Malibu weren't yet published at the time of this review, but GM claims the Ecotec four, which features variable valve timing and electric-assist power steering, will deliver 22 mpg in city driving and 33 mpgs on the highway. Those numbers would make make the Malibu one of the most fuel-efficient mid-sized sedans on the market. As a comparison, the similar Ford Fusion sedan equipped with the 2.5 liter, 175 hp four-cylinder engine, achieves 29 mpg on the highway.

GM says the Malibu's optional 3.6 liter V-6 (which is basically a detuned version of the same unit found in the current Camaro as well as the Cadillac CTS) can achieve 17 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. This engine also features variable valve timing (but steering is assisted by a conventional engine-driven hydraulic pump). The four-cylinder Malibu takes about 9.5 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph. Equipped with the more powerful V-6, the Malibu's 0-60 time drops by nearly three full seconds to 6.5-6.7 seconds or so.

ON THE ROAD

The Malibu has been an American family car favorite for decades, even as the underlying chassis has evolved from rear-wheel-drive ('70s and '80s) to the current front-wheel-drive layout.

While some things have changed, much remains familiar - most notably the Malibu's easygoing nature. Even the V-6 version, which is among the quicker cars in this segment, has a relaxed feel to it. Much more so than the Fusion, which has a firmer ride and feels like a smaller car, even though it's not.

One reason for this is the Malibu's relatively long wheelbase (112.3 inches), which is nearly as long as the Mercedes E-Class (113.1 inches) and significantly longer than the Ford Fusion's 107.4 inch wheelbase. But in terms of overall length, both cars are within about an inch of each other (191.8 inches for the Chevy vs. 190.6 for the Ford).

Big cars feel "big" - planted and solid - in part because they have longer wheelbases than stubbier cars. And this is one of the reasons why the Malibu has that appealing big car highway car ride esteemed by several generations of Malibu buyers. The other reason is suspension tuning that's more relaxed than many of the more sporty-oriented mid-sized sedans out there, including the Fusion. The Malibu's much closer in terms of its cushy ride quality to something like a Toyota Camry or the new Hyundai Sonata - but wrapped up in all-American sheetmetal.

If your main desire is the best family car in a domestic car, the Malibu is going to win your heart. If you want more Euro-sportiness (handling and ride-wise as well as appearance-wise) the Fusion will probably be more to your liking. Acceleration-wise, the four-cylinder version of the Malibu feels quicker than its 0-60 time sounds, in part because of the new six-speed automatic. There's less RPM drop between gear changes than there was with the old four speed automatic and the shifts themselves are snappy and well-timed. This new transmission also comes standard with GM's steering wheel-mounted TapShift manual shift controls. Tap the "+" button to go up, then "-" to drop down a gear.

With the V-6, a Malibu is about as quick as a early-mid '90s Mustang GT - which only had about 215 hp to work with from its much larger (and much less fuel-efficient) 5.0 liter V-8 engine. This is a measure of how far, power and performance-wise, we've come in the space of just ten or 15 years. Current mid-sized, V-6 powered family cars like the Malibu are quicker - and stronger - than the V-8 muscle cars of the not-so-long-ago past. That's pretty incredible!

AT THE CURB

The Malibu's look is red state conservative - and very American. It is a squared-off, masculine lug of a car. Many buyers want exactly that - and the Chevy delivers.

Inside, too. There's a modern-ish, pod-style gauge cluster, but overall the layout is as direct and simple as a John Wayne movie.

No surprises, no weirdness - just straightforward functionality. Large rotary dials to control the AC; big (and easy to understand) buttons for everything else. Front and rear seat head/legroom is slightly more generous than in the Fusion, too (by about half an inch, in most respects) although the Malibu's trunk is slightly smaller than Fusion's (15.1 cubic feet vs. 16.5 cubic feet).

The Malibu doesn't offer all-wheel-drive (the Fusion does) but Chevy does give buyers standard "turn-by-turn" navigation assistance through the OnStar communication system. This may be the better buy, relative to in-dash GPS systems - which not only tend to cost a small fortune ($1,500-$2,000 is typical) but which are also likely to be technologically out-of-date within a couple of years.

With turn-by turn, you simply call in for assistance with directions; an OnStar operator will guide you to your destination in real time. If you want "real" GPS, you can always buy a Garmin unit for about $400 - much less than the cost of a factory unit - and you can take it with you when you leave the car, too. Or use it another car.

Another nice little upgrade for 2011 is standard Sirius-XM satellite radio (with USB port for iPod/MP3 players) plus a power driver's seat with power lumbar adjustment. Bluetooth wireless, remote engine start and a high-end Bose premium stereo are among the luxury features you can add at extra cost.

THE REST

You won't find anything low-budget, let alone sub-par, in the Malibu. Most of the materials used are better than average - and nicer than the car's price range might lead you to expect. This is true across the line today; there are virtually no cars, at any price, that have that early '80s Blue Lite Special ambiance about them.

The Malibu's cabin may not be as Euro-modern as, say, a Mazda6 (or the new Hyundai Sonata) but it's very pleasant overall. The retro-themed (early '60s Corvette) dual cockpit shape is (again) very American and looks pretty sharp in the available two-tone color schemes Chevy offers. GM has upped the standard warranty to a very solid five years or 100,000 miles - although the basic warranty remains a little skimpy at three years or 36,000 miles.

The Fusion's standard warranty is also three years or 36,000 miles - but its powertrain warranty is just five years or 50,000 miles. (I'd be a little nervous about that, if I were looking at an AWD-equipped Fusion. GM's Stabilitrak traction/stability control system, ABS with Panic Brake Assist (primes the system for full power braking force when the system detects an imminent panic stop situation) and front seat side-impact air bags are standard on all Malibu trims. The OnStar system will also automatically summon EMS in the event of a crash.

THE BOTTOM LINE

This is an unpretentious, easy-to-like family car with no significant faults or weaknesses that pretty much sells itself.

New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera - Reviews, Pics, Photos and Wallpapers


Chevrolet are now all set to launch their brand new version of the already existing MUV in India, Tavera and this new model is named as the New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera. This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera, which belongs to the C segment of the Indian market is now destined to make a difference in the MUV class.

This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera features a 1994cc Diesel engine from Sonalika's Rhino RX, which will produce a Maximum Power of 100 Bhp @ 3600 rpm and also a Maximum torque of 220 Nm @ 2400 rpm. Fuel Efficiency of this new MUV is not yet officially declared. This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera features a Double Wishbone, Semi-Elliptical Leaf Spring Suspension in it.

This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera includes a 5-speed Manual gear box in it and also it provides a seating capacity of around 7. New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will feature all new head lights, tail lamps, fog lights, front grille, all new interiors, new front and rear bumpers. The interiors of 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will be all new with centre console which will be have dash integrated music system and automatic climate control system is also expected in top end variants.

According to the trade analysts, this New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera is going to be Chevrolet's answer to Toyota's Innova and Tata's Aria and also it will emerge as a legend in its class. It is expected that the prices of 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will be more or less same like the current 2010 variants of Chevrolet Tavera which are priced between 8 lakh rupees to 12 lakh rupees.

The launch date of this New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera is going to be in June/July 2011 in the Indian Market.

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New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera - Reviews, Pics, Photos and Wallpapers


Chevrolet are now all set to launch their brand new version of the already existing MUV in India, Tavera and this new model is named as the New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera. This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera, which belongs to the C segment of the Indian market is now destined to make a difference in the MUV class.

This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera features a 1994cc Diesel engine from Sonalika's Rhino RX, which will produce a Maximum Power of 100 Bhp @ 3600 rpm and also a Maximum torque of 220 Nm @ 2400 rpm. Fuel Efficiency of this new MUV is not yet officially declared. This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera features a Double Wishbone, Semi-Elliptical Leaf Spring Suspension in it.

This New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera includes a 5-speed Manual gear box in it and also it provides a seating capacity of around 7. New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will feature all new head lights, tail lamps, fog lights, front grille, all new interiors, new front and rear bumpers. The interiors of 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will be all new with centre console which will be have dash integrated music system and automatic climate control system is also expected in top end variants.

According to the trade analysts, this New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera is going to be Chevrolet's answer to Toyota's Innova and Tata's Aria and also it will emerge as a legend in its class. It is expected that the prices of 2011 Chevrolet Tavera will be more or less same like the current 2010 variants of Chevrolet Tavera which are priced between 8 lakh rupees to 12 lakh rupees.

The launch date of this New 2011 Chevrolet Tavera is going to be in June/July 2011 in the Indian Market.

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Chevrolet Volt MPV5 style borrows the concept of index design and aerodynamic Chevrolet Volt. Front fascia is one of the most aerodynamic of all thanks to the crossing gates closed and optimized aerodynamics lower air dam, both to contribute to improving energy efficiency. A belly full underbody pan, coating with cash, an increase in the tail and the blade is designed in the quarter, also in MPV5 Chevrolet Volt concept through the wind with ease. Intense concentration on improving aerodynamics allow a greater range of all-electric.

The outside of the Chevrolet Volt concept MPV5 not only on efficiency. His Sonic Blue Metallic paint offers a contemporary look, while the dual skylights and panel 19-inch wheels are inspired to build the power of sport Volt Chevy Volt concept MPV5.

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - car specifications

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - body design

“The concept is the Chevrolet Volt Chevrolet Volt MPV5 efficient design and adapt to a liaison meeting family vehicles. It is immediately recognizable as an actual member of the Chevrolet family,” said Bob Boniface, design director of GM North America Crossover exterior, the team that worked with members of GM’s design studio in Australia at the Chevrolet Volt concept MPV5.

The dimensions of the Chevrolet Volt concept MPV5 offer more passenger comfort. Although the 2760 mm wheelbase with MPV5 Volt concept is just 15mm longer wheelbase than the Chevrolet Volt, its body is 181 mm longer (4585 mm), 73 mm wider (1871 mm) high and 182 mm (1612 mm) from the Volt.

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - rear angle

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - tail lamps

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - dashboard

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - interior design

2010 Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept - seat design

Inside the Chevrolet Volt concept takes center MPV5 Volt’s battery indicator cluster and striking two-tone leather seats. Thank you for the Chevrolet Volt concept MPV5 size, passenger comfort does not take a back seat. Typical for the Chevrolet Volt concept crossover sitting MPV5 allows for maximum comfort and flexibility, including the input and output is better.

When it comes to cargo, the Chevrolet Volt concept in the tradition of crossover MPV5 Thank you for that row seats flip and fold second, which provides up to 1764.1 liters of cargo space with seats folded and 863, 7 liters of room behind the second row.

Power Voltec stimulates Green Credentials

The MPV5 Chevrolet Volt concept uses the same propulsion system Voltec found in the Chevrolet Volt, including the additional capacity of the generator to extend the driving range and eliminate the anxiety range “.” A 16-kWh, T-shaped lithium-ion battery from the electrical control unit.

System flexibility allows Voltec Chevy Volt concept vehicle MPV5 response to the demands of full-speed and acceleration while driving a vehicle and five residents up to 51.5 miles in pure electric propulsion. That’s twice the average urban worker in China moves every day. When the battery is discharged, the generator motor support 1.4-liter battery and provides up to 482 km of electric propulsion.

“The Chevrolet Volt concept MPV5 show Voltec flexibility of the propulsion system, which can generate enough electricity to power a variety of vehicles from compact cars like the Volt in a crossover like the concept Volt MPV5.” said Doug Parks, Executive Global various vehicles and global vehicle chief engineer for GM Electric Vehicles.

“Increased demand for personal transportation throughout China is creating new environmental challenges and energy security,” said Kevin Wale, president and CEO of GM China Group “GM is committed to finding solutions and adopt. Which includes electrification of the car. MPV5 Premier world of the Chevrolet Volt concept Beijing shows GM’s commitment to making China a global reach of technology strategy. ”

GM continues to promote electrification in China through research and development. He launched the China Automotive Energy Research Center (CAERC) in Beijing. Joint venture with SAIC and Tsinghua University is developing a comprehensive energy strategy for automobiles in China. GM China Science Lab, which opened last November, conducting advanced research related to the car, including the development of the battery. In March, GM introduced the FR-V (grid-vehicle) concept in Shanghai. A core of SAIC-GM pavilion in Shanghai Expo 2010, FR-V GM realize its vision for urban personal mobility in the year 2030. In addition, GM’s support “for its joint venture Shanghai GM’s Drive green” strategy that focuses on the development of green products, green manufacturing with the support and environmental responsibility