Chevrolet’s all-new sedan's price to start at RMB 179,900/Rs 8.31 lakh.
28 Feb 2016 | 4389 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
Chevrolet has launched the Malibu XL, the brand’s new flagship sedan for China. The ninth generation of the American car is offered in six trims, with a price between RMB 179,900 (Rs 8.31 lakh) and RMB 249,900 (Rs 25.43 lakh).
Chevrolet’s latest hybrid technology will also be available in ...
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Chevrolet has launched the Malibu XL, the brand’s new flagship sedan for China. The ninth generation of the American car is offered in six trims, with a price between RMB 179,900 (Rs 8.31 lakh) and RMB 249,900 (Rs 25.43 lakh).
Chevrolet’s latest hybrid technology will also be available in the Malibu XL lineup later this year.
Derived from GM’s new midsize global architecture, the Malibu XL benefits from a comprehensive array of advanced safety, connectivity and fuel efficiency technologies. It challenges the defined boundaries of its segment – hence the XL, or ‘Cross Limits’, designation.
“The Chevrolet Malibu XL represents the start of an exciting new era for Chevrolet in China, as the brand introduces 20 new and upgraded models within the next five years,” said SAIC-GM president Wang Yongqing.
The Malibu XL is the first sedan in its class in China to offer available built-in OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity. Users can connect up to seven mobile devices within 700 square meters of the car.
The vehicle is also equipped with Chevrolet's new-generation MyLink infotainment system, which supports more than 40 functions for communication, entertainment and driving. When coupled with an iPhone, the system can access apps such as voice navigation and media players through Apple CarPlay. There’s also a Bose premium sound system as an optional buy. Other highlights include LED daytime running lights, keyless entry, remote engine start and the tyre pressure monitoring system with a digital display.
High fuel efficiency
The Malibu XL comes with a choice of two engines with fuel-saving start/stop technology. GM’s popular Ecotec 1.5-litre turbocharged engine delivers a maximum output of 125 kW and peak torque of 252 Nm at 2,000 rpm.
The Malibu XL with a 1.5L turbocharged engine is 120 kg lighter than the current Malibu thanks to the application of lightweight materials. According to Chevrolet, it delivers class-leading fuel efficiency of 6.0 litres/100 km, and is eligible for the Chinese government’s 50 percent purchase tax cut for vehicles with small-displacement engines.
The engine is matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that is agile, quiet and efficient. The engine and transmission were put through over 4.25 million km of rigorous testing globally, ensuring long-term dependability.
The Malibu XL is also available with a 2.5L direct-injection engine. Through valve timing adjustment and precise fuel delivery control, the engine offers maximum output of 147 kW and peak torque of 253 Nm. It also affords class-leading fuel efficiency of 7.3 litres/100 km. The engine is mated to an all-new six-speed DSS intelligent transmission.
Safety matters
Enhancements were made to key parts through high-precision simulation to boost the body’s strength for better occupant protection in the event of a collision. About 40 percent of the structure consists of ultra-high-strength steel, for added protection. This also contributes to the exceptional body stiffness and the solid performance of the chassis, suspension and steering systems.
The newly upgraded sport-tuned chassis is claimed to deliver agile and accurate handling. Improvements in the Malibu XL’s MacPherson front suspension – such as the addition of aluminum parts, a high-quality hollow stabilizer bar and hydraulic bushings – augment its agility. The four-link independent rear suspension in the Malibu XL has an upgraded link between its rear axle and connecting rods, improving adaptability to different road conditions.
Front ventilated brake rotors receive Ferritic Nitro-Carburizing (FNC) treatment, a GM-patented process, to reduce corrosion and abrasion of friction plates and rotors. This has the added benefit of reinforcing braking performance while reducing vibration and noise.
Perceptive Protection
Manufactured to meet global five-star safety standards, the Malibu XL comes with 10 new-to-Malibu active safety features. They include:
- Front Pedestrian Alert that uses a forward-looking camera to help avoid or reduce the severity of impact to pedestrians ahead of the vehicle, as the system can apply automatic last-second braking;
- New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning;
- Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert;
- New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator;
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert;
- Front and Rear Park Assist;
- Intellibeam, which automatically switches the headlamps to high beam for better road illumination and improved visibility;
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking;
- Automatic Parking Assist.
The Malibu XL also introduces a new traction and electronic stability control system, which helps limit wheel slip and assist the driver in maintaining control, especially in slippery road conditions.
Starting with two models in 2005, Chevrolet has expanded its portfolio in China to 12 model lines with 53 variants.