A completely redesigned Chevrolet Malibu mid-size sedan was introduced for 2008, but the old version of the Malibu soldiers on, as the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. The Classic comes in one streamlined trim, with the 219-horsepower, 3.5-liter pushrod V-6 engine and four-speed automatic transmission. The so-called Maxx model, a hatchback or wagon version of the Malibu Classic, has been discontinued.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic's design, when it was originally introduced in 2003, stood out for its quiet and refinement inside, and for a commendable combination of a supple ride and decent handling--though the electric power steering can be uninspiring at times. The 3.5-liter V-6 can be coarse but provides plenty of power, and the four-speed automatic handles it well; what's more, the combination returns excellent fuel economy, with estimates of 18 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and near the upper end of that in real-world driving.