GM's hybrid strategy includes using a mild hybrid system on a few sedans and small SUVs, while working toward its more robust two-mode hybrid system, already present on a few full-size SUVs.
The 2008 Malibu has been a real success story for GM, winning awards such as the North American Car of the Year. It shows significant improvement in quality over past GM models.
GM's mild hybrid system is called belt alternator starter (BAS). It can't run the car under electric power, as with more robust systems, but it does provide some boost during acceleration. The gas engine in the Malibu Hybrid is a 2.4-liter four cylinder.
As a hybrid, the Malibu has a gauge on the right showing electric boost and charging. An Eco light also comes on when you are driving in an economical manner.
If you want to see track information for an MP3 CD, you have to push the scan button. Scanning can take a while, and the results aren't saved in the car.
