Named after the California beach town, the Chevy Malibu was introduced in 1964. It is currently being produced in its seventh generation, which began in 1997.

The Malibu is an honorable model, receiving more than 40 awards since its debut in the sixties. It was also listed in 2010 as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

A major safety feature in the Chevrolet vehicle is General Motors' OnStar communications service. which provides automatic crash response, roadside assistance and emergency services.

Customers have a choice of four trim levels - LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ - all equipped with a 2.4-liter V4 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Malibu produces 169 hp at 6,400 rpm and 160 lb-ft torque at 4,500 rpm.

Features of the higher-trim levels include remote vehicle start, heated leather seating, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, XM Radio, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity. Drivers who purchase either the 2LT or LTZ editions have the option for a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which produced 252 hp.