Used 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
Buying Guide for the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx:
At Chevrolet, they say that the all-new Malibu Maxx delivers
the comfort of first class at a coach ticket’s price, and
they aren’t kidding. This new adaptation of the Malibu sedan
(covered separately) is actually called a five-door extended
sedan. That is primarily because of its rear end, which features
an angled liftgate that provides extensive interior room.
So really, the 2004 Malibu Maxx is like a cross between a
station wagon and the smooth-running Malibu sedan. It gives
the best of both worlds: excessive space and cargo-carrying
versatility as well as nice handling and driveability.
Under the Hood
Both the base LS and top-line LT model have a 3.5-liter V6
engine with 200 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque
at 3200 rpm. It is mated to a 4-speed automatic overdrive
transmission, giving it an estimated fuel economy of 21/29
mpg (city/highway).
Independent front and rear suspension allows the Malibu Maxx
to hover calmly over bumpy roads and uneven surfaces. Power-assisted
variable-speed rack-and-pinion steering provides nice, sharp
responsiveness.
Along with the Malibu, the Malibu Maxx uses GM’s Epsilon
architecture. The Epsilon body structure gives the Malibu
Maxx a high degree of structural stiffness, which greatly
enhances both vehicle handling and interior acoustics.
For safety, the Malibu Maxx has antilock brakes with Dynamic
Rear Proportioning, traction control and dual front airbags.
Curtain side airbags are optional.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The 2004 Malibu Maxx has a six-inch advantage in wheelbase
over its sister Malibu, yet it is a half-inch shorter overall.
That means all the extra room is reserved for the interior.
This results in 106 cubic feet of passenger space and a luxurious
41 inches of legroom with the rear seats pushed all the way
back—another nice feature of the Malibu Maxx.
The all-new Malibu Maxx seeks to distinguish itself further
with a standard fixed rear glass skylight. Both driver and
passenger-side rear occupants have the option of opening or
closing a standard split/retractable shade to control the
amount of light coming through the skylight.
There are plenty of comfort options available for the debut
year as well. Some of the names on the list include heated
front seats, a remote vehicle starter system, XM satellite
radio and a DVD rear seat entertainment system.
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