Autoblog

When the Chevy Malibu was launched back in the fall, we were promised a four cylinder version mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and it's finally here. The newest Malibu will achieve 22 mpg in city driving and 32 mpg on the highway, which is a monumental improvement over the 17/26 fuel economy of the 3.6L V6. The four cylinder LTZ will not only save green-backs at the pump, but it'll also cost less at the dealership with a base price that is over $1,000 less than the V6 model. The lone downgrade of note is that the four cylinder LTZ gets 17 inch rims standard, versus 18s for the V6.

Earlier in the year, we reviewed a 2.4L Malibu with a four-speed slush box, and while it wasn't as engaging as the 3.6L model, it still had plenty of get up and go for most driving situations. With a six speed auto, driving characteristics can only improve, and the six-mpg improvement over the V6 model makes the four cylinder LTZ Malibu look like a very good option for folks that want high-end equipment without such a thirst for petrol. Hit the jump to read GM's press release.

[Source: GM]