A fleet of the current generation Chevrolet was spotted alongside the 2019 model year update of the mid-size executive sedan on the scenic mountains of southern Spain. The test mules are heavily cladded given that the carmaker is testing a mid-life update of the ninth-generation sedan.
The current gen Malibu was revealed in 2015 as a 2016 model year. So it is a fairly new car and was not in any need of an update. Nevertheless, Chevrolet thinks otherwise. The extensive cladding hints at a more than subtle cosmetic update. The headlights are covered completely which means a complete redesign of the current sleek units. The DRLs and possibly the grille will also be redone with the new update.
At the rear, the tail lights seem to be retained but we expect new lightning signature when it arrives. The entire rear is cladded which appears to receive some additional trims and a fresh design. Overall the new Malibu will appear a lot more updated than the newly launched Opel Insignia.
Under the skin, things will remain unchanged. The cabin and feature list will get subtle updates like the new MyLink infotainment system. However, there are rumours that GM might offer the new frugal 1.6-litre turbodiesel in the Malibu which currently powers the smaller Cruze sedan. The four-cylinder turbocharged 1.5-litre and 2.-litre motors will continue to power the American sedan. The nine-speed automatic introduced earlier this year should carry over along with the Malibu hybrid model.
The new and updated Malibu will be revealed next year. The Detroit Motor Show is the most probable stage for GM to reveal the new Malibu, however, it could be delayed further.
