Chevy takes Malibu to the Maxx
Chevy’s 2006 Malibu Maxx SS (Super Sport) brings new excitement to the larger mid-size lineup, something we found uplifting during our recent weeklong test drive. Both the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS receive power from GM’s more technical, yet still overhead valve, 3.9-Liter V-6 engine that pumps out 240 horsepower. When coupled with the nimble Maxx SS infrastructure, drivers and passengers can buckle in for some real driving fun.
Most notable is Maxx’s variation from sibling Malibu sedan. From the B-pillar forward, the Malibus are identical. However, as we move further rearward, Maxx rides on a wheelbase that is 6 inches longer than the sedan, while its overall length is a half-inch shorter. The result is a roomier interior for a car this size and a “hatchback/wagon” layout that offers versatile cargo options.
Power from the V-6 is channeled to the front wheels via GM’s 4T65-E four-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control. We’d love to see a manual transmission offered, as the automatic does nothing for the “SS” moniker that dates back to the Impala model in 1961. However, with an aggressive 3.69 final drive ratio, performance is enhanced as we timed our SS to 60-mph in just under 7 seconds. In the quarter-mile, it ran 15.2 seconds at near 92-mph at Maple Grove Raceway near Reading, Pa.
Malibu Maxx models include many standard features, such as power-assisted driver’s seat height adjuster, 6-speaker CD audio system, all the powers, air, and a factory-installed remote vehicle starter system that allows the driver to get a head start on the car’s interior heating and cooling from up to 200 feet. When you live in the northeast, this is a great feature.
Safety wise, all Malibus feature dual-stage frontal air bags for driver and passenger; three-point safety belts for all occupants; head curtain front, rear and side-impact air bag with front seat-mounted thorax side-impact air bag; standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes with traction control; and 19 out of 20 stars in the government crash test.
One of the top selling points of the Maxx is interior versatility. Its 60/40-rear seat slides almost 7 inches fore and aft, and also reclines. Maxx’s rear cargo area features a standard power outlet and a multi-functional cargo panel with four positions for two-tier loading. The cargo panel can be positioned as a table for picnics or tailgate parties, while hooks on the cargo panel help secure nets or smaller items, such as grocery bags. This is ingenuity at its best!
We like what’s underneath, as a fully independent sport tuned front suspension with MacPherson struts and a four-link independent rear helps plant SS in the turns. Unlike the LS, LT and LTZ models that feature less sensitive electric power steering, the SS comes with hydraulic power steering for better feel of the road and execution. The result is much better handling in all aspects.
Malibu Maxx SS offers a distinguished interior and exterior, helped by largest in class 18-inch ultra bright alloy wheels and tires. The model features an upgraded front motif with sporty, SS specific, crosshatch dual-port grille and embedded fog lamps. The platinum-style grille surrounds, rear spoiler and dual chrome-tipped 3.5-inch exhaust outlets finish the treatment.
Other features emphasizing the “SS” legacy are an ebony interior with gunmetal trim accents; sport seats with larger bolsters; three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel; and leather-covered shifter knob. Maxx SS also receives an exclusive instrument cluster with sport graphics, chrome-ringed gauges, red pointers, and the SS logo.
Important numbers include a curb weight of 3,620 pounds, 112.3-inch wheelbase, 18 city and 26 highway EPA, (we averaged about 19), and 41 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.
The only option on our tester was a $325 XM Satellite radio, which pushed the final tally to $25,015 with the $625 delivery charge added.
OK, Chevy; job well done. Malibu Maxx receives an 8.5 on a scale of one to 10.
Likes: Price, abundant power, neat concept, nice looks, interior roominess, versatility.
Dislikes: A bit of torque steer, fuel economy, and if it’s an SS, where’s the 5-speed manual transmission?