2011 Chevy Malibu will have four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock control to
fight lock-ups in emergency stops. Traction control that aids off-the-line grip
also is standard, as is an antiskid system (also called electronic stability
control) to fight sideways slides. Malibu is among the heaviest cars in its
class and feels only adequately powered with the four-cylinder engine. The
livelier V-6 brings performance in line with that of V-6 editions of the Honda
Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima. With the weight of its engine and
transmission over the driving wheels, Malibu has good traction in snow. And
while handling in general is competent and secure, the large, weighty Malibu
never feels as athletic or composed as comparable versions of Accord, Altima, or
even the Ford Fusion. Malibu regains points with fine bump absorption and a
notably quiet bearing.
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