New 2017 Chevy Malibu Sport

Redesigned for the 2016 model year, the Malibu became a better looking and more upscale sedan. The Malibu received new engines with enhanced fuel economy, winning two extra mpg with the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Now with a sportier appearance and a high-tech interior with increased space, the Malibu Blue Line continues to enjoy the success of its predecessor, while bringing new customers into Chevrolet showrooms.

The new 2017 Chevy Malibu Sport package adds some verve to the midline LT model, bringing a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob to the interior, as well as a rear spoiler and a set of 18-inch, 10-spoke wheels to the exterior. Unlike last year, the LT is no longer split into two sub-trims, the 1LT and the more powerful 2LT. Instead, the 2LT has effectively been killed off, leaving the LT with a single powertrain: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission, a combo it shares with the Malibu L and LS.

The production-ready concept received quite a few extra goodies on the outside. The first thing that catches the eye is the Genesis White paint, which offers a transitional look between bright white and light gray, depending on lighting conditions. The white exterior is highlighted by blue-tinted windows and double five-spoke wheels finished in Slate Blue Metallic. The rims measure 18 inches and feature a concept design that will likely go into production in the future.

Paint and wheels aside, the Malibu Blue Line also comes with a black grille, black “bow-tie” emblems, and tinted headlamp and taillight lenses. A “ground effects” kit adds a more prominent front splitter, side skirts, trunk lid spoiler, and rear diffuser for a sportier look. The sedan is rounded off by a pair of polished exhaust tips for a high contrast against the black diffuser.

The interior of the concept car is pretty close to the standard model, gaining three extra features. The standard door sills have been replaced with illuminated units, while the floor has liners with premium metal badging. The sedan also received a sport pedal kit to go with the more aggressive exterior. The features are nice and add value to the Malibu, moving it closer to the more premium offerings in this segment.

Drivetrain updates include suspension and brakes. The sedan features a new suspension lowering kit that include springs that lower the ride height by 0.4 inches. This gives the Malibu a sportier stance and more responsive handling. Chevy says that the suspension setup was designed for models equipped with the optional 2.0-liter engine, so it’s safe to assume that the Blue Line gets its juice from the turbocharged four-banger. The unit sends 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque to the wheels through the eight-speed automatic that replaced the previous six-speed for the 2016 model year. Stopping power was also upgraded by means of a Chevrolet Performance brake kit.

Stop by Apple Chevrolet today to get a look at the new 2017 Chevy Malibu Sport!