A better car than you could ever admit
By Christian Wardlaw
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January 23, 2006
Overview
On what seems to be a regular basis, General Motors gets a good idea and then underfunds product development, resulting in a compromise vehicle in terms of styling, performance, functionality, or all three. Then, after a few years of sluggish sales that don’t meet the unrealistic projections used to build the original business case, GM gets desperate, finally dumps money into the product, and gets it right. But potential customers have already moved on, sales continue to stagnate, and then the bean counters kill the model just when things are turning around. So it was with the 1994-96 Chevrolet Impala SS and the 1984-88 Pontiac Fiero, and now it looks to be the case with the 2004-07 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx.This year, Chevy created a Malibu Maxx SS (Super Sport), and rumor has it that the Malibu Maxx is going out of production after the 2007 model year. That’s a shame, because styling, performance, handling, and other upgrades that come with the new SS version go a long way toward rectifying what we’ve despised about the Malibu Maxx since it debuted with giant thud for 2004. Take, for example, the redesigned front end. That garish chrome bar that stretched across the width of the car is gone, replaced by a new bumper and a simple grille with a decorative Chevy bowtie. The Malibu Maxx SS comes with standard 18-inch wheels and tires, which help correct the odd proportions of the body work. There’s also a rear roof-mounted spoiler which makes the car look better in profile, and thrusting from beneath the back bumper are two sexy chrome-dipped exhaust tips.
Cosmetic changes aren’t the only updates with the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS. Under the hood, there’s a 3.9-liter V6 good for 240 horsepower, nearly 40 more ponies than in the standard model. The numb, lifeless, almost dangerous electric-assisted steering is ditched for a conventional hydraulic-assisted unit that rids the car of its tendency to wander down the road like it’s got a mind of its own. The interior is decked out in black with silver and chrome accents under the beltline; roof pillars and the woven cloth headliner are light gray to lighten the mood inside the car.
As one colleague noted in the office elevator after following one of our editors into the parking lot, “Where I come from, that ain’t no Malibu SS. Where’s the big block?” Yes, it might be stretch to employ the vaunted SS badge on the Malibu Maxx’s flanks, but no matter what Chevy calls this thing, we all agreed that it was a surprisingly good driver and a decent value. Our Laser Blue Metallic test car, called Michigan State Police Blue by one (dim)wit on staff, ran $25,015 including XM satellite radio and a $625 destination charge. And since nobody pays sticker for a GM product, it’s easy to see that for the price of a loaded Honda Civic EX you can take home the roomier, more powerful, more useful, and even better looking 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx SS instead.
Hey, we’re just as surprised by that suggestion as you are.
Driving Impressions
Brian Chee’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
It used to be that the SS badge meant something special, and while the Malibu Maxx is a fun, spry little car to drive – it doesn’t quite reach the Special shelf. That may not matter for the typical daily commuter, as the Maxx SS keeps things lively thanks to a 240-horsepower 3.9-liter V6 engine that provides a fun torque rating of 240 lb.-ft. at 2,800 rpm.
That will make you feel alive at first, true, but the problems start at higher speeds, when the car feels tired and unable to conjure up additional bursts of passing performance. This comes courtesy of a four-speed automatic transmission that forces the driver to extend revs and pool power. There’s no manual transmission, and just simply putting the Malibu Maxx SS in D is not an option, as you’ve really got to work the tranny’s manual-shift setting to wring out the performance, which throws a damp blanket on fuel economy. A brief drive registered around 18 miles-per in mostly freeway driving. The manual mode in the Maxx SS is unlike most cars today – there’s a button on the shifter, as opposed to a shift gate – which makes it feel curiously techie, though it does create a habit of one-handed driving.
Oh well. There’s little need for two hands on the wheel of this car, as drivers who take the Maxx SS out on a twisty mountain road will quickly discover. A sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch wheels make the ride responsive, yes – but not enough for an SS badge. Driving this car is like listening to your favorite song with only one speaker working: the sound is there, but darn it, it’s just so hard to hear the music.
Yukon Chow’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
The 2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx SS are both recipients of GM’s “all-new” overhead valve 3.9-liter V6. Forget the oft-debated statement of mating “new and advanced” to an otherwise old-world technology like the push-rod operated overhead valve engine that powers this and a fleet of other GM vehicles. If it works, it works – and while sideliners can gripe all they want, it sure doesn’t seem like owners have complained much about shortfalls of GM’s ‘tried and true’ family of 60-degree V6 engines. The advantage of a 40-horsepower injection of testosterone over the LT and LTZ trims in this Malibu Maxx SS makes driving the offbeat looking five-door – dare I say it – enjoyable with adequate power delivery whether going from stoplight to stoplight on city streets or at passing speeds on bustling local freeways. The engine revs freely, giving no indication that it’s anything but modern and sophisticated.
Between the engine and the wheels, however, lies an automatic transmission that feels equivalent to a pair of elastic rubber bands being employed to transmit power in place of a set of taut rawhide reins. The placement of the thumb-actuated tap up/down manual control buttons mounted on the shift column, while interesting, is overshadowed by the lack of aggression the transmission displays, especially in manual mode where gear shifts have a pronounced and delayed effect. Overall the powertrain suffers from a transmission that just isn’t up to the task at keeping up with an eager, ready-to-go setup offered by this SS trim.
Although the Malibu Maxx SS sports an upgraded suspension and a much welcomed larger wheel/tire combo, bigger brakes and thicker stabilizer bars would be nice. Nevertheless, the present set up gets passing grades for holding the road rather nicely.
Ron Perry’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
Every automotive journalist has a pivotal career dream drive…this wasn’t mine! But high-end and exotic rides aren’t what Americans buy. Cars like the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS are for the real world. As I walked toward the car in the parking lot, I was already prejudging the Maxx SS on looks and the shoddy reputation of the standard model. Surprisingly, the more time I spent behind the wheel, the more my opinion changed, but not completely.
The first thing I noticed was an abundance of torque steer. Other manufacturers have resolved this, why not Chevrolet? I found the engine to be slightly buzzy at high rpm but the torque and quick acceleration from the 3.9-liter V6 was ample and gave the Maxx SS a spirited feel. The ability to manually shift the Maxx SS is a nice touch but the placement of the shift button confuses me. The button resides on the shifter handle where the overdrive button is usually found on most cars equipped with an automatic. Having the button here seemed to promote one-handed driving.
Steering is gravely overboosted with little road feel. At first I thought it was likely the tires that gave the Malibu Maxx its twitchy feel, but since the ride was quiet and smooth I concluded it had to be the steering. Ride comfort and quietness are exemplary considering this is the performance version of the Malibu Maxx, which usually means a trade-off of these nuances for a stiff ride and lots of road noise.
Christian Wardlaw’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
If you’ve rented a regular-strength Malibu Maxx, owning one is the furthest thing from your mind. But if you liked the roomy interior, the utility, and the price tag, you should drive the new SS model. The 3.9-liter V6 has plenty of power and torque, and the four-speed transmission features smooth, precise shifts. The transmission works extremely well with this engine, proving quick to downshift for passing or climbing with no hunting on hills. Quibbles include the silly shift buttons for the three-speed manual mode, and an occasional “thunk” when lifting off the brake and gassing the throttle from speeds under 25 mph. Fuel economy is OK, but not terribly impressive since we averaged just 18.4 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving.
The brakes work fine if you don’t ask much of them. The pedal features a short range of travel and stiff underfoot feel, but you acclimate quickly. Under duress, it didn’t take long for the brakes to heat up and begin to flutter a bit. Also, fade was an issue on the downhill part of my test loop. Finally, the ABS is quick to kick in on bad pavement or when one front wheel is unloaded.
My favorite thing about the Malibu Maxx SS was the steering. It’s hydraulically-assisted, not electrically-assisted like other Malibus, and the difference is like night and day. This setup cures the Maxx SS of the regular model’s poor steering feel and directional stability. The 225/50R18 Goodyear Eagle LS2 tires offer superb grip and don’t squeal much when pushed. The Maxx SS will slide wide when run hard into a corner, but with proper braking technique before entering a turn the car remains neutral and composed. Body roll is evident but not significant. Ride quality on L.A.’s sectioned concrete freeways is a bit busy, but the Maxx’s body weight is nicely managed over dips, the suspension reacting not too stiffly and not too softly. The tires are quiet, but the suspension lets some significant impact harshness affect the cabin over really bad pavement breaks.
Overall, the 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx SS is entertaining, if not downright fun. The weak brakes don’t inspire confidence, but otherwise this is a legit sports sedan.
Comfort
Brian Chee’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
No one ever said that the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx was uncomfortable. In fact, it is an exceedingly comfortable vehicle, especially in back where there is a fair amount of room for a pseudo-wagon-sedan-thingy. The SS model actually improves on the comfort and livability of the Maxx, with firm and comfortable leather sport seats up front, along with a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. This combination helps to make the Maxx SS a car that’s easy to sit in and drive. The leather, the all-black interior, and the steering wheel improve on what is already a versatile car by adding a splash of comfort and sporty trendiness.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
A standard power driver’s seat, well-bolstered sport seats, and adjustable lumbar support combine to produce a relatively good driving position. The tilt-telescoping steering wheel and power adjustable pedals are also welcome signs that the interior offerings may be far more enjoyable than the exterior styling indicates. The lack of pronounced theater-style seating means rear seat passengers won’t have a great view of the road ahead, but the standard rear skylights work to alleviate that minor shortcoming. The extra thick D-pillar and sliver of a rear-quarter window present a slight rearward visibility problem, but turning one’s head for a view out back isn’t an entirely futile task. Rear seat legroom is especially commodious and the split-folding sliding and reclining bench seat provides additional comfort and utility. A gripe that remains is the limited functionality of a cargo area. The floor is not made entirely of the same composite material found on the rear seatbacks, which, by the way, aren’t flush with the cargo floor when folded. C’mon now, let’s take brand identity a little further than slapping a bow-tie badge on the front grille and drop in a more complete and functional cargo area/rear seat set up as can be found on the HHR or Pontiac Vibe.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
Like I said, the more time I spent in the 2006 Malibu Maxx SS, the more I started to appreciate the improvements Chevrolet has made. Granted the SS is new this year, but I feel it reflects the standard car and its quality, too. The seats have good upper side bolstering, but lack sufficient side bolstering on the lower cushion. Head and legroom abound in both the front and back seats with equally good ingress and egress. The two small sunroofs above the back seat are a nice touch but why delete the front sunroof? Seems having both would be ideal. The Malibu Maxx SS has ample rear storage with the rear seats in the up position and has a low liftover height, but the hard cargo cover simply gets in the way and makes loading difficult. It is also awkward to remove and replace when necessary. My big negative here was the use of what seems to be 60-grit sandpaper in the tailgate pull-down slots. A textured rubber would make more sense and be less abrasive to your fingertips.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
Visibility is terrific over the hood and in the large, triangular side mirrors. The rear window is somewhat small, and the rear headrests are a bit intrusive. The Malibu Maxx’s D-pillars are pretty thick, too. Drivers enjoy a commanding position behind the wheel, and it’s easy to find a perfect setup thanks to the tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, and seat height/tilt adjuster. The steering wheel is thick and nice to grip; the upper door panel is soft and wide to serve as an armrest while driving. Seats are a terrific combination of firm support and plush comfort, and though it looks bolstered those flared cushions and seatbacks don’t hold you in during really hard driving. Rather, that job falls to the grippy fabric inserts, which, BTW, collect animal hair like a lint brush. This is an easy car to get into and out of, front and rear. The back seat is tall, supportive, and roomy, with lots of rear legroom even when four large adults are on board. The rear seatbacks even recline, and the seat slides fore-and-aft for added comfort or cargo as necessary.
Quality
Brian Chee’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Black is such a forgiving color. Take the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS: subpar plastics on the inside don’t look quite as garish when the color scheme is black on black, instead of brown on beige. Shoot, they even look like they fit together better, though a semi-close inspection will reveal uneven gaps and finish issues throughout the cabin. What makes the SS model different from the Regular Joe Malibu Maxx, however, is that some of the materials used throughout the cabin are actually better. Of course, you should expect leather if you’re paying the SS premium on a Maxx – indeed, you should expect a bit more, such as attention to detail throughout the cabin’s construction. There are some upgrades worth mentioning, though frankly the list is short. There’s the aforementioned leather seats. The 18-inch wheels. The rear spoiler. As a result, it looks nicer than the regular Maxx, and Billy Crystal says that it’s better to look good than it is to feel good. Bottom line: if you want tight gaps and quality fit and finish, step away from the Maxx SS.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Fifteen years ago, GM build quality saved my hand from serious injury as my uncle unknowingly slammed the door of his Chevy Celebrity closed while my hand was on the B-pillar. I like to say that I was spared that day due to the large gaps between the doors and body of the car. Staring at the Malibu Maxx fifteen years later, I can’t say that I’d be so lucky if the same thing were to happen this time around.
However, several small areas are causes for concern for me as a potential buyer. The trim pieces adorning the steering wheel and below the glovebox would be better if they didn’t look and feel like the adhesive was still setting. Open the center console cover or either of the sunshades covering the rear skylights and be prepared to bear witness to more questionable workmanship. The exposed screws hinging the center console to the armrest held on for dear life as I examined the strength of the flimsy door when opened. It’s a good thing that the bottom portion of the console demonstrates as much flex as the top and sways in unison because if stable, the fasteners stand a good chance of being ripped off at the lack of free play.
By far the most telling part of the car, as far as quality is concerned, is the attention to detail paid to the clasping mechanism for the rear skylight sunshades. I sure hope this is a pre-production model because holding the track-less spring-loaded retractable sunshades closed is a metal clasp fastened to a poorly cut portion of the plastic trim surrounding the skylights – a piece of work that at best resembles a hastily completed trim job with a Dremel rotary tool. Sharp bumps in the road or a set of curious hands may send either sunshade whipping towards its natural at-rest position, potentially taking other objects out with it.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Quality is where I feel the Malibu Maxx SS shines. I was surprised that everything looks nice and has a quality feel – with the exception of the dated digital display on the radio. Materials are acceptable for a car in this price range, and I found no loose parts or floppy pieces. Gauges are easy to read and the biggest surprise for me was the firm shift action of the transmission lever. So many times Chevrolet models have sloppy, rubbery movements that impart a feeling of low quality with the first shift into drive. Outside, the quality theme continues. The Maxx has no loose, floppy parts as seen on other GM models. Nice 18-inch alloy wheels with decent size rubber are under the Malibu SS and the dual chrome exhaust tips are an added nice touch. The only issue I had was with the latch not catching on the tailgate but that likely is nothing more than an adjustment issue.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Cheap plastics, especially the silver painted trim pieces on the dash and surrounding the control pods on the doors and steering wheel spokes, are in evidence here but the dash pad and upper door panels are soft, low-gloss material that speaks of quality. Chrome accents dress up the stereo and climate control knobs, gauges, and shifter surround. The nice mesh woven headliner imparts a sense of upscale ambience, and the grippy cloth seat inserts feel durable, but the leather bolsters feel dry and insubstantial. Is it even real leather? I’ll bet this stuff will crack as the car ages.
Bad pavement brings out the structural creaks, but there were few rattles and squeaks in our test vehicle. Loose console trim under the dashboard’s center stack is a throwback to the bad old days of GM build quality, there was lots of wiggle to the gray plastic dash garnish on the passenger side, and I found some gap inconsistencies on the steering wheel and center stack. But for the most part the car is screwed together pretty well.
Outside, sloppy detailing lowers the quality rating. Look too closely, and you might find inconsistently mounted lights front and rear, misaligned trim along the lower part of the greenhouse, and inconsistent gaps here and there. But you’ve got to look closely, which ranks as an improvement over GM models of yore.
Design
Brian Chee’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
At first glance, the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS has a surprisingly sporty look to it, a unique appearance courtesy of its stretched platform, wagon-esque body and the addition of a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and a fake front air dam fascia. Dual exhaust pipes, fog lamps and large headlights also add an immediate appeal.
But then you wake up…and you realize that you’re driving a Malibu Maxx with an SS badge on the doors and a bunch of bolt-ons that make it look as though there’s more sport than what’s really going on. That’s enough to elicit a good moan, to be sure, so do yourself a favor. Look at it twice before you buy it. If you still like it, if it still tickles your senses, then God Bless you.
On the inside, this car is Maxx functional, with nice room in back, controls placed correctly, a 60/40 split rear seat, and a hard cover for the cargo area. Highlights specific to the Maxx SS include those twin exhaust pipes, silver trim on the grille,l and that all-black color scheme. Weird oddities that continue with the SS include a rear sunroof that doesn’t open. All in all, the SS version of the Malibu Maxx improves a little on a design that has, since its inception, told the world that its buyers are on a budget.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
You really have to hand it to GM’s hard-nosed approach to developing innovative ideas born from good intentions. However, the company’s ability to achieve maximum appeal by executing and packaging that innovation successfully leaves much to be desired. Sure, the Malibu Maxx isn’t nearly as hideous looking as the (gulp) dead-and-buried Pontiac Aztek that fell short in its execution, and one can see that good intentions were in mind for both cars. In the spirit of the now defunct Pontiac though, the Malibu Maxx SS is an all-purpose wagon (five-door hatch, sports tourer – call it what you will) with an attractive ingredients list that has yet to reach it’s maxximum potential when it comes to offering an attractively styled, cohesive product.
Take for instance the exterior – it’s not quite off-putting, it’s not entirely polarizing, but it looks odd enough that if crossovers could talk, the first words uttered would likely be “so what are YOU supposed to be?” If the design team wasn’t aiming for ‘quirky’, then it’s as if they couldn’t decide on a universal design direction for the exterior. A particular qualm I have is the bumper-to-headlight treatment, which makes it seem like either the headlights are mounted too high or the angle of the headlight design clashes with the angle of the bumper. The interior of the Malibu Maxx SS is much more welcoming than the exterior.
Overall, it seems like development around the Malibu Maxx was stretched too thin and fell short of delivering what could have been another surprise hit like the HHR. Instead, Chevy produced a work-in-progress in need of another pass through the drawing board.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
Dated! That’s the first thought that comes to mind when I think of the Malibu Maxx SS. Even though this car is new, it looks old. The design is somewhat reminiscent of the AMC Gremlin. When I look at the Maxx SS, that old tag line, “where’s the rest of your car, toots?” comes to mind. I just can’t believe there weren’t better drawings on the board when this car was sent for approval. Maybe the design guys need to dig through the trash and recoup some of the designs that were tossed. Then again, if this was the best they had, maybe not! There are no smooth lines on the Maxx SS. Everything is choppy and cobbled together. The 2006 Malibu Maxx with its “SS” upgraded trim does improve the car’s overall design but this thing still looks like it would be at home on the set of the original Brady Bunch TV series.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
This is not an appealing vehicle thanks to strange dimensions. But the Malibu Maxx’s front end is nicely cleaned up for 2006, and the car is no longer flat-out ugly. On the SS model, big brushed aluminum 18-inch wheels and dual exhausts help give the Maxx a more substantial and better balanced appearance.
Inside, you’d better like black and gray, because that’s all you get except for some chrome detailing. The light gray pillar covers and headliner help lighten the mood, but the twin rear sunroofs over the back seat are just plain silly. Stereo and climate controls are a little busy but clearly marked and easy to use. Displays are a nice dot-matrix design, the three-spoke SS steering wheel is sporty and contains handy satellite audio controls, and the gauges are racy if marked by small numbers. Vents are highly functional. I dislike the “Malibu” insert above the center stack – it looks cheap and should be replaced by a larger hazard button.
For a car that touts utility, the glovebox is too small. At least the center console is large. Good-size front door pockets, twin rear storage nets on the seatbacks, and a small center console inside rear center armrest provide additional space to stash stuff. Our test car had standard rear audio controls, but not the optional DVD player. The rear seats fold and the front seat folds, but the result is not a flat load floor. The handy cargo cover is a tray that can be placed in any of three locations to maximize storage options, and it comes with a leg to serve as a tailgating table.
Advice
Brian Chee’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you like the Chevy Malibu Maxx, skip the LTZ trim and buy the SS model. For about the same amount of money, you’ll get the Malibu Maxx’s utility with a spunky 240-horsepower V6 engine, nice leather sport seats and even a rear spoiler. Whoo-hoo! Just ignore the four-speed automatic transmission, the fact that there’s no manual transmission, the not-quite-ready-for-SS performance level, the poor fuel economy, the bad plastics, and the lousy quality of construction. Ignore the fact that you can buy a 2006 Mazda MazdaSpeed 6 for about $3,000 more, or a Subaru WRX for more than a thousand less, or the fact that General Motors is basically slapping an SS badge on anything that moves. Ignorance is, after all, bliss – with two S’s and a cool looking spoiler.
Yukon Chow’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you’re in the market for a stylish, roomy, semi-sporty and responsive car with the added utility of a wagon, the Malibu Maxx SS might be able to squeak itself in along with a broad swath of similarly packaged cars. On paper, it’ll run with the likes of a Dodge Magnum, Chrysler PT Cruiser, or other traditional wagons and new offerings that defy segment names. Reserve your impressions until after a test drive though, because you should never judge a book by its cover alone.
Ron Perry’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you’re a die-hard buy-American car shopper and you’re looking in this price range, consider the Malibu Maxx. But do get the SS version and not the standard model. The small amount of additional cost is worth it. I wouldn’t, however, put the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS at the top of my “best buy” list.
Christian Wardlaw’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
I’m almost embarrassed to admit how much I like the Malibu Maxx SS. In terms of functionality, comfort, user-friendliness, and daily-drivability, I have no qualms recommending this car. Even the styling, with the enhancements of the SS package, is palatable. And the price, especially figuring the usual rebates and dealer discounts, makes this car a worthy consideration. But I’d still choose the Malibu SS sedan over the oddly-proportioned Maxx for my own personal set of wheels, and only if I could get out the door for less than $21,000. I do, after all, need to justify my purchase to my neighbors, who will judge my intelligence on the wisdom of my automotive purchase whether I like it or not.
Specifications
Test Vehicle: 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS
Price of Test Vehicle: $25,015 (including $625 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 3.9-liter V6
Engine Horsepower: 240 at 5,800 rpm
Engine Torque: 240 at 2,800 rpm
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Curb weight, lbs.: 3,620
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 18/26 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 18.4 mpg
Length: 187.8 inches
Width: 69.8 inches
Wheelbase: 112.3 inches
Height: 58.1 inches
Leg room (front/rear): 41.9/41 inches
Head room (front/rear): 39.4/39.4 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: Five
Max. Cargo Volume: 41 cubic feet
Competitors: Chrysler PT Cruiser GT, Dodge Magnum, Mazda 6 Hatchback, Pontiac Vibe GT, Subaru WRX
Brian Chee’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
It used to be that the SS badge meant something special, and while the Malibu Maxx is a fun, spry little car to drive – it doesn’t quite reach the Special shelf. That may not matter for the typical daily commuter, as the Maxx SS keeps things lively thanks to a 240-horsepower 3.9-liter V6 engine that provides a fun torque rating of 240 lb.-ft. at 2,800 rpm.
That will make you feel alive at first, true, but the problems start at higher speeds, when the car feels tired and unable to conjure up additional bursts of passing performance. This comes courtesy of a four-speed automatic transmission that forces the driver to extend revs and pool power. There’s no manual transmission, and just simply putting the Malibu Maxx SS in D is not an option, as you’ve really got to work the tranny’s manual-shift setting to wring out the performance, which throws a damp blanket on fuel economy. A brief drive registered around 18 miles-per in mostly freeway driving. The manual mode in the Maxx SS is unlike most cars today – there’s a button on the shifter, as opposed to a shift gate – which makes it feel curiously techie, though it does create a habit of one-handed driving.
Oh well. There’s little need for two hands on the wheel of this car, as drivers who take the Maxx SS out on a twisty mountain road will quickly discover. A sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch wheels make the ride responsive, yes – but not enough for an SS badge. Driving this car is like listening to your favorite song with only one speaker working: the sound is there, but darn it, it’s just so hard to hear the music.
Yukon Chow’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
The 2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx SS are both recipients of GM’s “all-new” overhead valve 3.9-liter V6. Forget the oft-debated statement of mating “new and advanced” to an otherwise old-world technology like the push-rod operated overhead valve engine that powers this and a fleet of other GM vehicles. If it works, it works – and while sideliners can gripe all they want, it sure doesn’t seem like owners have complained much about shortfalls of GM’s ‘tried and true’ family of 60-degree V6 engines. The advantage of a 40-horsepower injection of testosterone over the LT and LTZ trims in this Malibu Maxx SS makes driving the offbeat looking five-door – dare I say it – enjoyable with adequate power delivery whether going from stoplight to stoplight on city streets or at passing speeds on bustling local freeways. The engine revs freely, giving no indication that it’s anything but modern and sophisticated.
Between the engine and the wheels, however, lies an automatic transmission that feels equivalent to a pair of elastic rubber bands being employed to transmit power in place of a set of taut rawhide reins. The placement of the thumb-actuated tap up/down manual control buttons mounted on the shift column, while interesting, is overshadowed by the lack of aggression the transmission displays, especially in manual mode where gear shifts have a pronounced and delayed effect. Overall the powertrain suffers from a transmission that just isn’t up to the task at keeping up with an eager, ready-to-go setup offered by this SS trim.
Although the Malibu Maxx SS sports an upgraded suspension and a much welcomed larger wheel/tire combo, bigger brakes and thicker stabilizer bars would be nice. Nevertheless, the present set up gets passing grades for holding the road rather nicely.
Ron Perry’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
Every automotive journalist has a pivotal career dream drive…this wasn’t mine! But high-end and exotic rides aren’t what Americans buy. Cars like the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS are for the real world. As I walked toward the car in the parking lot, I was already prejudging the Maxx SS on looks and the shoddy reputation of the standard model. Surprisingly, the more time I spent behind the wheel, the more my opinion changed, but not completely.
The first thing I noticed was an abundance of torque steer. Other manufacturers have resolved this, why not Chevrolet? I found the engine to be slightly buzzy at high rpm but the torque and quick acceleration from the 3.9-liter V6 was ample and gave the Maxx SS a spirited feel. The ability to manually shift the Maxx SS is a nice touch but the placement of the shift button confuses me. The button resides on the shifter handle where the overdrive button is usually found on most cars equipped with an automatic. Having the button here seemed to promote one-handed driving.
Steering is gravely overboosted with little road feel. At first I thought it was likely the tires that gave the Malibu Maxx its twitchy feel, but since the ride was quiet and smooth I concluded it had to be the steering. Ride comfort and quietness are exemplary considering this is the performance version of the Malibu Maxx, which usually means a trade-off of these nuances for a stiff ride and lots of road noise.
Christian Wardlaw’s 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Driving Impressions:
If you’ve rented a regular-strength Malibu Maxx, owning one is the furthest thing from your mind. But if you liked the roomy interior, the utility, and the price tag, you should drive the new SS model. The 3.9-liter V6 has plenty of power and torque, and the four-speed transmission features smooth, precise shifts. The transmission works extremely well with this engine, proving quick to downshift for passing or climbing with no hunting on hills. Quibbles include the silly shift buttons for the three-speed manual mode, and an occasional “thunk” when lifting off the brake and gassing the throttle from speeds under 25 mph. Fuel economy is OK, but not terribly impressive since we averaged just 18.4 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving.
The brakes work fine if you don’t ask much of them. The pedal features a short range of travel and stiff underfoot feel, but you acclimate quickly. Under duress, it didn’t take long for the brakes to heat up and begin to flutter a bit. Also, fade was an issue on the downhill part of my test loop. Finally, the ABS is quick to kick in on bad pavement or when one front wheel is unloaded.
My favorite thing about the Malibu Maxx SS was the steering. It’s hydraulically-assisted, not electrically-assisted like other Malibus, and the difference is like night and day. This setup cures the Maxx SS of the regular model’s poor steering feel and directional stability. The 225/50R18 Goodyear Eagle LS2 tires offer superb grip and don’t squeal much when pushed. The Maxx SS will slide wide when run hard into a corner, but with proper braking technique before entering a turn the car remains neutral and composed. Body roll is evident but not significant. Ride quality on L.A.’s sectioned concrete freeways is a bit busy, but the Maxx’s body weight is nicely managed over dips, the suspension reacting not too stiffly and not too softly. The tires are quiet, but the suspension lets some significant impact harshness affect the cabin over really bad pavement breaks.
Overall, the 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx SS is entertaining, if not downright fun. The weak brakes don’t inspire confidence, but otherwise this is a legit sports sedan.
Comfort
Brian Chee’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
No one ever said that the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx was uncomfortable. In fact, it is an exceedingly comfortable vehicle, especially in back where there is a fair amount of room for a pseudo-wagon-sedan-thingy. The SS model actually improves on the comfort and livability of the Maxx, with firm and comfortable leather sport seats up front, along with a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. This combination helps to make the Maxx SS a car that’s easy to sit in and drive. The leather, the all-black interior, and the steering wheel improve on what is already a versatile car by adding a splash of comfort and sporty trendiness.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
A standard power driver’s seat, well-bolstered sport seats, and adjustable lumbar support combine to produce a relatively good driving position. The tilt-telescoping steering wheel and power adjustable pedals are also welcome signs that the interior offerings may be far more enjoyable than the exterior styling indicates. The lack of pronounced theater-style seating means rear seat passengers won’t have a great view of the road ahead, but the standard rear skylights work to alleviate that minor shortcoming. The extra thick D-pillar and sliver of a rear-quarter window present a slight rearward visibility problem, but turning one’s head for a view out back isn’t an entirely futile task. Rear seat legroom is especially commodious and the split-folding sliding and reclining bench seat provides additional comfort and utility. A gripe that remains is the limited functionality of a cargo area. The floor is not made entirely of the same composite material found on the rear seatbacks, which, by the way, aren’t flush with the cargo floor when folded. C’mon now, let’s take brand identity a little further than slapping a bow-tie badge on the front grille and drop in a more complete and functional cargo area/rear seat set up as can be found on the HHR or Pontiac Vibe.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
Like I said, the more time I spent in the 2006 Malibu Maxx SS, the more I started to appreciate the improvements Chevrolet has made. Granted the SS is new this year, but I feel it reflects the standard car and its quality, too. The seats have good upper side bolstering, but lack sufficient side bolstering on the lower cushion. Head and legroom abound in both the front and back seats with equally good ingress and egress. The two small sunroofs above the back seat are a nice touch but why delete the front sunroof? Seems having both would be ideal. The Malibu Maxx SS has ample rear storage with the rear seats in the up position and has a low liftover height, but the hard cargo cover simply gets in the way and makes loading difficult. It is also awkward to remove and replace when necessary. My big negative here was the use of what seems to be 60-grit sandpaper in the tailgate pull-down slots. A textured rubber would make more sense and be less abrasive to your fingertips.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Comfort:
Visibility is terrific over the hood and in the large, triangular side mirrors. The rear window is somewhat small, and the rear headrests are a bit intrusive. The Malibu Maxx’s D-pillars are pretty thick, too. Drivers enjoy a commanding position behind the wheel, and it’s easy to find a perfect setup thanks to the tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, and seat height/tilt adjuster. The steering wheel is thick and nice to grip; the upper door panel is soft and wide to serve as an armrest while driving. Seats are a terrific combination of firm support and plush comfort, and though it looks bolstered those flared cushions and seatbacks don’t hold you in during really hard driving. Rather, that job falls to the grippy fabric inserts, which, BTW, collect animal hair like a lint brush. This is an easy car to get into and out of, front and rear. The back seat is tall, supportive, and roomy, with lots of rear legroom even when four large adults are on board. The rear seatbacks even recline, and the seat slides fore-and-aft for added comfort or cargo as necessary.
Quality
Brian Chee’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Black is such a forgiving color. Take the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS: subpar plastics on the inside don’t look quite as garish when the color scheme is black on black, instead of brown on beige. Shoot, they even look like they fit together better, though a semi-close inspection will reveal uneven gaps and finish issues throughout the cabin. What makes the SS model different from the Regular Joe Malibu Maxx, however, is that some of the materials used throughout the cabin are actually better. Of course, you should expect leather if you’re paying the SS premium on a Maxx – indeed, you should expect a bit more, such as attention to detail throughout the cabin’s construction. There are some upgrades worth mentioning, though frankly the list is short. There’s the aforementioned leather seats. The 18-inch wheels. The rear spoiler. As a result, it looks nicer than the regular Maxx, and Billy Crystal says that it’s better to look good than it is to feel good. Bottom line: if you want tight gaps and quality fit and finish, step away from the Maxx SS.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Fifteen years ago, GM build quality saved my hand from serious injury as my uncle unknowingly slammed the door of his Chevy Celebrity closed while my hand was on the B-pillar. I like to say that I was spared that day due to the large gaps between the doors and body of the car. Staring at the Malibu Maxx fifteen years later, I can’t say that I’d be so lucky if the same thing were to happen this time around.
However, several small areas are causes for concern for me as a potential buyer. The trim pieces adorning the steering wheel and below the glovebox would be better if they didn’t look and feel like the adhesive was still setting. Open the center console cover or either of the sunshades covering the rear skylights and be prepared to bear witness to more questionable workmanship. The exposed screws hinging the center console to the armrest held on for dear life as I examined the strength of the flimsy door when opened. It’s a good thing that the bottom portion of the console demonstrates as much flex as the top and sways in unison because if stable, the fasteners stand a good chance of being ripped off at the lack of free play.
By far the most telling part of the car, as far as quality is concerned, is the attention to detail paid to the clasping mechanism for the rear skylight sunshades. I sure hope this is a pre-production model because holding the track-less spring-loaded retractable sunshades closed is a metal clasp fastened to a poorly cut portion of the plastic trim surrounding the skylights – a piece of work that at best resembles a hastily completed trim job with a Dremel rotary tool. Sharp bumps in the road or a set of curious hands may send either sunshade whipping towards its natural at-rest position, potentially taking other objects out with it.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Quality is where I feel the Malibu Maxx SS shines. I was surprised that everything looks nice and has a quality feel – with the exception of the dated digital display on the radio. Materials are acceptable for a car in this price range, and I found no loose parts or floppy pieces. Gauges are easy to read and the biggest surprise for me was the firm shift action of the transmission lever. So many times Chevrolet models have sloppy, rubbery movements that impart a feeling of low quality with the first shift into drive. Outside, the quality theme continues. The Maxx has no loose, floppy parts as seen on other GM models. Nice 18-inch alloy wheels with decent size rubber are under the Malibu SS and the dual chrome exhaust tips are an added nice touch. The only issue I had was with the latch not catching on the tailgate but that likely is nothing more than an adjustment issue.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS Quality:
Cheap plastics, especially the silver painted trim pieces on the dash and surrounding the control pods on the doors and steering wheel spokes, are in evidence here but the dash pad and upper door panels are soft, low-gloss material that speaks of quality. Chrome accents dress up the stereo and climate control knobs, gauges, and shifter surround. The nice mesh woven headliner imparts a sense of upscale ambience, and the grippy cloth seat inserts feel durable, but the leather bolsters feel dry and insubstantial. Is it even real leather? I’ll bet this stuff will crack as the car ages.
Bad pavement brings out the structural creaks, but there were few rattles and squeaks in our test vehicle. Loose console trim under the dashboard’s center stack is a throwback to the bad old days of GM build quality, there was lots of wiggle to the gray plastic dash garnish on the passenger side, and I found some gap inconsistencies on the steering wheel and center stack. But for the most part the car is screwed together pretty well.
Outside, sloppy detailing lowers the quality rating. Look too closely, and you might find inconsistently mounted lights front and rear, misaligned trim along the lower part of the greenhouse, and inconsistent gaps here and there. But you’ve got to look closely, which ranks as an improvement over GM models of yore.
Design
Brian Chee’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
At first glance, the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS has a surprisingly sporty look to it, a unique appearance courtesy of its stretched platform, wagon-esque body and the addition of a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and a fake front air dam fascia. Dual exhaust pipes, fog lamps and large headlights also add an immediate appeal.
But then you wake up…and you realize that you’re driving a Malibu Maxx with an SS badge on the doors and a bunch of bolt-ons that make it look as though there’s more sport than what’s really going on. That’s enough to elicit a good moan, to be sure, so do yourself a favor. Look at it twice before you buy it. If you still like it, if it still tickles your senses, then God Bless you.
On the inside, this car is Maxx functional, with nice room in back, controls placed correctly, a 60/40 split rear seat, and a hard cover for the cargo area. Highlights specific to the Maxx SS include those twin exhaust pipes, silver trim on the grille,l and that all-black color scheme. Weird oddities that continue with the SS include a rear sunroof that doesn’t open. All in all, the SS version of the Malibu Maxx improves a little on a design that has, since its inception, told the world that its buyers are on a budget.
Yukon Chow’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
You really have to hand it to GM’s hard-nosed approach to developing innovative ideas born from good intentions. However, the company’s ability to achieve maximum appeal by executing and packaging that innovation successfully leaves much to be desired. Sure, the Malibu Maxx isn’t nearly as hideous looking as the (gulp) dead-and-buried Pontiac Aztek that fell short in its execution, and one can see that good intentions were in mind for both cars. In the spirit of the now defunct Pontiac though, the Malibu Maxx SS is an all-purpose wagon (five-door hatch, sports tourer – call it what you will) with an attractive ingredients list that has yet to reach it’s maxximum potential when it comes to offering an attractively styled, cohesive product.
Take for instance the exterior – it’s not quite off-putting, it’s not entirely polarizing, but it looks odd enough that if crossovers could talk, the first words uttered would likely be “so what are YOU supposed to be?” If the design team wasn’t aiming for ‘quirky’, then it’s as if they couldn’t decide on a universal design direction for the exterior. A particular qualm I have is the bumper-to-headlight treatment, which makes it seem like either the headlights are mounted too high or the angle of the headlight design clashes with the angle of the bumper. The interior of the Malibu Maxx SS is much more welcoming than the exterior.
Overall, it seems like development around the Malibu Maxx was stretched too thin and fell short of delivering what could have been another surprise hit like the HHR. Instead, Chevy produced a work-in-progress in need of another pass through the drawing board.
Ron Perry’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
Dated! That’s the first thought that comes to mind when I think of the Malibu Maxx SS. Even though this car is new, it looks old. The design is somewhat reminiscent of the AMC Gremlin. When I look at the Maxx SS, that old tag line, “where’s the rest of your car, toots?” comes to mind. I just can’t believe there weren’t better drawings on the board when this car was sent for approval. Maybe the design guys need to dig through the trash and recoup some of the designs that were tossed. Then again, if this was the best they had, maybe not! There are no smooth lines on the Maxx SS. Everything is choppy and cobbled together. The 2006 Malibu Maxx with its “SS” upgraded trim does improve the car’s overall design but this thing still looks like it would be at home on the set of the original Brady Bunch TV series.
Christian Wardlaw’s Opinion of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS’s Design:
This is not an appealing vehicle thanks to strange dimensions. But the Malibu Maxx’s front end is nicely cleaned up for 2006, and the car is no longer flat-out ugly. On the SS model, big brushed aluminum 18-inch wheels and dual exhausts help give the Maxx a more substantial and better balanced appearance.
Inside, you’d better like black and gray, because that’s all you get except for some chrome detailing. The light gray pillar covers and headliner help lighten the mood, but the twin rear sunroofs over the back seat are just plain silly. Stereo and climate controls are a little busy but clearly marked and easy to use. Displays are a nice dot-matrix design, the three-spoke SS steering wheel is sporty and contains handy satellite audio controls, and the gauges are racy if marked by small numbers. Vents are highly functional. I dislike the “Malibu” insert above the center stack – it looks cheap and should be replaced by a larger hazard button.
For a car that touts utility, the glovebox is too small. At least the center console is large. Good-size front door pockets, twin rear storage nets on the seatbacks, and a small center console inside rear center armrest provide additional space to stash stuff. Our test car had standard rear audio controls, but not the optional DVD player. The rear seats fold and the front seat folds, but the result is not a flat load floor. The handy cargo cover is a tray that can be placed in any of three locations to maximize storage options, and it comes with a leg to serve as a tailgating table.
Advice
Brian Chee’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you like the Chevy Malibu Maxx, skip the LTZ trim and buy the SS model. For about the same amount of money, you’ll get the Malibu Maxx’s utility with a spunky 240-horsepower V6 engine, nice leather sport seats and even a rear spoiler. Whoo-hoo! Just ignore the four-speed automatic transmission, the fact that there’s no manual transmission, the not-quite-ready-for-SS performance level, the poor fuel economy, the bad plastics, and the lousy quality of construction. Ignore the fact that you can buy a 2006 Mazda MazdaSpeed 6 for about $3,000 more, or a Subaru WRX for more than a thousand less, or the fact that General Motors is basically slapping an SS badge on anything that moves. Ignorance is, after all, bliss – with two S’s and a cool looking spoiler.
Yukon Chow’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you’re in the market for a stylish, roomy, semi-sporty and responsive car with the added utility of a wagon, the Malibu Maxx SS might be able to squeak itself in along with a broad swath of similarly packaged cars. On paper, it’ll run with the likes of a Dodge Magnum, Chrysler PT Cruiser, or other traditional wagons and new offerings that defy segment names. Reserve your impressions until after a test drive though, because you should never judge a book by its cover alone.
Ron Perry’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
If you’re a die-hard buy-American car shopper and you’re looking in this price range, consider the Malibu Maxx. But do get the SS version and not the standard model. The small amount of additional cost is worth it. I wouldn’t, however, put the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS at the top of my “best buy” list.
Christian Wardlaw’s Advice about the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS:
I’m almost embarrassed to admit how much I like the Malibu Maxx SS. In terms of functionality, comfort, user-friendliness, and daily-drivability, I have no qualms recommending this car. Even the styling, with the enhancements of the SS package, is palatable. And the price, especially figuring the usual rebates and dealer discounts, makes this car a worthy consideration. But I’d still choose the Malibu SS sedan over the oddly-proportioned Maxx for my own personal set of wheels, and only if I could get out the door for less than $21,000. I do, after all, need to justify my purchase to my neighbors, who will judge my intelligence on the wisdom of my automotive purchase whether I like it or not.
Specifications
Test Vehicle: 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS
Price of Test Vehicle: $25,015 (including $625 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 3.9-liter V6
Engine Horsepower: 240 at 5,800 rpm
Engine Torque: 240 at 2,800 rpm
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Curb weight, lbs.: 3,620
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 18/26 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 18.4 mpg
Length: 187.8 inches
Width: 69.8 inches
Wheelbase: 112.3 inches
Height: 58.1 inches
Leg room (front/rear): 41.9/41 inches
Head room (front/rear): 39.4/39.4 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: Five
Max. Cargo Volume: 41 cubic feet
Competitors: Chrysler PT Cruiser GT, Dodge Magnum, Mazda 6 Hatchback, Pontiac Vibe GT, Subaru WRX
Photos courtesy of General Motors