The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu unveiled at the NYIAS

Thanks to the close-up teasers of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu from General Motors, we knew to expect a revised back end but with those sporty new taillights come a new front end and new dimensions thanks to the new Epsilon II chassis. The 2013 Malibu is shorter and wider to help make the vehicle friendly for the 100+ markets around the world that will get this new sedan…but Chevy has changed the exterior dimensions without compromising the interior passenger and cargo space.

Across the front end of the 2013 Chevy Malibu, we see bigger, bolder styling although there are clear styling cues taken from the current Malibu. The large split grille returns but the nose of the vehicle has been drawn out with new, aggressive lines that run from the lower front fascia all the way through the hood. Similarly, the back end has a far less vanilla design thanks to the Camaro-like taillights and the molded rear adds to the sportier nature of this new mid-sized sedan.

General Motors has been a little short on the details of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu but we know that the initial engine option when the 2013 models hit the streets with be a 2.5L Ecotec 4-cylinder making 190hp and 180lb-ft of torque – a combination which GM expects to offer better than 30mpg. Also, like the new Buick Regal that rides on the same platform, the 2013 Malibu is expected to see the benefits of forced induction to add a little power to the efficiency.

In addition to debuting the new look of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, GM also surprised the New York crowd with the new 2013 Malibu Eco model. This high efficiency trimline features technology like the self-actuating shutters in the front fascia to improve highway aerodynamics coupled with the eAssist system first introduced in the Buick brand. Buick introduced the eAssist Regal on the Epsilon II platform earlier this year and this 2.4L 4-cylinder drivetrain uses a mild hybrid electric support system complete with regenerative braking to yield an impressive 26mpg in the city and an incredible 38mpg on the open road. These are both great numbers for a vehicle of its size and capabilities but for now, these are strictly GM estimates – left to be confirmed by the EPA once we get closer to the actual release date of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu.

Check out the gallery below for a closer look at the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu!

Other GM News:
GM CEO Akerson makes $2.3 mil in 2010 – in 4 months
The 2012 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6 gets more power, loses the manual trans
Information on the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette leaked online
Introducing the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette
General Motors recalls 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sedans for steering wheel risk
The Chevrolet Volt outsells the Nissan Leaf in March 2011