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2009 Chevy Malibu Hybrid: Earth-friendly midsize sedan delivers fuel economy
 The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid gets 34 mpg on the highway, an improvement over 2008. SPECIAL TO THE POST-DISPATCH
Offering a competitive combination of refinement and fuel efficiency, the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is the most affordable hybrid version of a midsize sedan. It delivers the highest fuel economy among all Malibu models without having the highest price tag. Pricing starts at $21,605. Malibu Hybrid delivers an estimated 34 mpg in highway driving and 26 mpg in the city – an improvement over 2008 models, thanks to better control of the battery charging/discharging system and new low rolling-resistance tires. “With the Malibu Hybrid, customers don’t need to sacrifice style or capability to realize a significant fuel efficiency gain,” said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. “The Malibu Hybrid is just one example of Chevy’s fuel-saving technologies that will take us from gas friendly to gas free.” Standard features include automatic climate control, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, and a driver information center with hybrid-specific information. It is easily distinguished at a glance, thanks to specific exterior appointments and badges. Inside, a unique gauge cluster provides information and feedback about the Hybrid powertrain’s operation. HYBRID POWERTRAIN The Malibu Hybrid is equipped with the GM Hybrid system, consisting of: • A precision electric motor/generator unit replaces the conventional alternator. The 36-volt system is capable of 110 lb-ft of auto-start torque • Innovative power electronics that precisely control the Motor/Generator System • A nickel metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery pack that is capable of delivering and receiving more than 10,000 watts of peak power. The pack consists of three 12V NiMH cassettes in series totaling 36 volts. Each cassette includes two 12V NiMH modules in parallel. They are in the front of the trunk, taking up a minimal amount of cargo space. The GM Hybrid system is mated to a 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. This innovative hybrid powertrain is rated at 164 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 159 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,000 rpm. While maintaining the vehicle’s sporty feel, the GM Hybrid system seamlessly reduces fuel consumption by: • Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling • Restarting the engine promptly when the brake pedal is released • Using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine at wide-open throttle, such as during acceleration or a passing maneuver • Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration • Capturing vehicle kinetic energy during deceleration through regenerative braking to charge the advanced nickel metal hydride battery • Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient. The GM Hybrid system also is designed to automatically maintain full accessory functionality when the vehicle is stopped, including climate control, so that hybrid operation is transparent to the driver and passengers. The Malibu Hybrid delivers an appropriate balance between fuel economy and cabin comfort with an air conditioning system with two selectable modes. The Hybrid A/C mode favors more fuel efficient performance by limiting the draw on the hybrid powertrain, while the normal mode provides maximum passenger comfort in hot climates and enhances defogging performance. MALIBU STYLE The Malibu Hybrid has a strong stance, bold proportions and a profile that reinforce its substantial feel. Clean, pure lines and wheels pushed to the corners, as well as a visually lower, yet longer, greenhouse and a shorter deck suggest motion, agility and attitude. The body sides are clean and elegant, interrupted only by distinctive, wheel-oriented forms that communicate an aggressive, stable stance and a rear profile with Corvette cues that connect to Chevrolet’s rich performance heritage. The Malibu’s grille has a deep-set, detailed appearance and is flanked by bold, multi-plane headlamps. At the rear, twin round taillamps are signature Chevrolet design cues and, like the headlamps, have a rich, detailed appearance. The attention to detail on the interior matches the Malibu’s exterior, with an ergonomic design using premium materials.
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