The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO: A Deep Dive Into the Details
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO, presented by General Motors, boasts a brand new Ecotec 2.5L engine with direct injection. This engine, making its debut in the summer, is the standard engine for this Malibu model. It is set to offer drivers an improved experience, providing a respectable 190 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque, according to GM's estimate. These figures not only indicate a power upgrade from the previous Malibu engine, but also an enhanced low-rpm torque response, making for a more agile driving experience.
The Powertrain Innovation
Chevrolet's eAssist light-electrification technology has also found its place in this model. It is an integral part of the Malibu ECO, promising the most fuel-efficient Malibu ever manufactured. Remarkably, the advanced eAssist system claims to save fuel without sacrificing driving performance. This system's key components include a lightweight lithium-ion battery and an electric motor-generator. Their combined weight is just 65 pounds, a modest addition to the trunk that doesn't significantly encroach on cargo space.
The eAssist system is paired with an Ecotec 2.4L direct-injection four-cylinder engine and a next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. This powerful duo, together with the eAssist system, is projected to deliver an impressive fuel economy of 26 mpg in city and 38 mpg on highways.
Structural Enhancements
The 2013 Malibu ECO comes with a significantly stiffer body structure, reportedly 19 percent more rigid than its predecessor. The use of high-strength steel in its construction is not an accident, but a calculated move to provide passengers with a more secure and comfortable ride. Furthermore, the model’s new proportions, featuring a wider stance, promise to deliver a more planted feel on the road.
The Suspension Makeover
The car's suspension has undergone a significant transformation. From the McPherson-strut front suspension with dual-path mountings to the hydraulic ride bushings in the front control arms, everything is tailored to improve the ride quality and handling precision. All these features have been meticulously calibrated, providing the driver with an enhanced feeling of control while keeping the ride smooth and comfortable.
Steering and Chassis Control
Equipped with a dual-pinion, rack-mounted electric power steering system, the Malibu ECO aims to deliver superior steering response and on-center characteristics. To provide a better feeling of control, it includes a premium ZF steering gear and a variable-effort steering feature. This technology increases power assistance during low-speed maneuvers, like parking, and decreases assistance at higher speeds.
Moreover, an array of electronic chassis control systems have been integrated into this model. All under the umbrella of the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, these enhancements are designed to provide a safer journey by adjusting and adapting to the driving conditions. This includes a suite of advanced braking features to assist the driver in a variety of conditions.
Final Thoughts
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO seems to combine technological innovation with practical driving needs. It houses an array of advanced systems and technologies, such as eAssist light-electrification technology, an upgraded suspension system, and an array of electronic chassis control systems. These features, together with the new Ecotec 2.5L engine, make this model a significant offering from Chevrolet. However, we will have to see how these claims hold up in real-world conditions.
