General Motors officially discontinued the Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan in November 2024, ending a 60-year legacy. This decision marks the end of a popular and affordable sedan. The Malibu’s starting price is $26,195, making it an accessible option for consumers in the US and cheaper than competitors like the Hyundai Sonata.
Despite its popularity, the Malibu’s low price point led to thin profit margins. With U.S. consumer preferences increasingly shifting towards SUVs and pickup trucks, the sedan’s market position diminished. GM’s strategy to accelerate its shift towards electrification also contributed to the Sedan’s discontinuation. However, recent renderings of a redesigned Malibu have stirred up excitement, suggesting a potential future for the vehicle in electric form.
Electric Malibu Design Inspired by Equinox EV RS
The latest rendering of the Malibu, created by a virtual design artist, envisions a fully electric sedan aligned with General Motors’ focus on electric vehicles. The design draws notable cues from the Equinox EV RS trim, although its resemblance to the Hyundai Sonata’s styling has sparked some controversy.
One key rendering feature is the straight-line daytime running lights below the bonnet line. This design choice emphasizes a future-focused electric vehicle aesthetic with a wide light strip that spans the width of the front. Below that, a hexagonal grille fills the front section, with high-gloss black accents along the borders to enhance the vehicle’s sophisticated appearance.
Grille Design and Possible Sonata Influence
The grille design features a frame that divides the front into two areas, with a diamond-shaped pattern applied to both the top and bottom sections. A narrow-area headlamp is integrated into the top of the frame, further adding to the vehicle’s sleek, modern look. However, some critics have noted that the straight-line daytime running light at the top of the grille strongly resembles the “seamless horizon lamp” featured on the Hyundai Sonata facelift. This comparison has sparked discussion among consumers.
Additionally, the hexagonal layout of the grille is similar to that of the 8th-generation Hyundai Sonata EV, though there are some differences in the design. Despite the subtle distinctions, many overseas netizens have pointed out the similarities to Hyundai’s design, contributing to mixed reactions. The front lip extends beneath the bumper, adding a sharp, sporty touch to the overall appearance.
Chevrolet Malibu Electric Vehicle Revival: Is It Coming Back?
There has been speculation about a potential revival of the Malibu, this time as an electric vehicle. Sources cited by General Motors Authority suggest that the 10th-generation Malibu could be released as early as 2025. However, no official plans have been confirmed yet.
Many American consumers, particularly those who valued the vehicle’s affordability, have been disappointed by its discontinuation. However, the possibility of an electric Malibu offers some hope, and all eyes are now on General Motors to see if the brand will introduce an electric version of this iconic sedan.
