Houston Cars

Autobytel reviews the 2008 Chevy Malibu and comes away with this - ‘Chevrolet is quick to point out that the Malibu is not a sport sedan, and nods toward the Saturn Aura – the ‘Bu’s platform-mate – as filling GM’s role in that corner of the mid-size segment. However, the Chevy is no mushmobile, with a controlled on-road ride that’s firm but compliant. In curves body roll is subdued, and there’s enough grip to keep the driver mildly entertained, if not thrilled. Four-cylinder models use GM’s electrically assisted steering, which is numb and somewhat vague. The V-6 uses a conventional hydraulic assist, which is better, but neither will give the kind of feedback enthusiasts prefer.’

Chevy made a good call by not marketing the Malibu as a sport sedan.  That term is overused and abused these days, and gets applied to all sorts of cars where it doesn’t belong.  I think that applies to the Aura too - it’s a nice family sedan, but no sport sedan.

Read more about the 2008 Chevy Malibu.