Dealer on new Malibu:"It's going to be a home run"

[Northstar]

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic.../609300352/1148

The Chevrolet dealers who gathered Sept. 19 in a ballroom of the Venetian hotel and casino in Las Vegas for General Motors Corp.'s annual dealers meeting held their breath as the cover was pulled off a new car amid a light show and thumping music.

At first, dealers were baffled by the upscale-looking sedan on the stage, and then pleasantly surprised to find out it was the 2008 Malibu, Chevy's entry level sedan that typically starts at less than $20,000.

"It was a stunner. Just a beautiful car," said Jim Quinlan, a Chevy dealer from Knoxville, Tenn. "Nobody could figure out what it was at first. It looks like it would cost $35,000 to $40,000."

Chevy spokesman Terry Rhadigan said dealer reaction has been overwhelmingly positive.

The new Malibu has not been shown publicly but could make its debut at the Detroit auto show next year or one of other major U.S. auto shows.

Quinlan can't wait to get the Malibu on his lot in the latter part of 2007. "It's going to be a home run," he said.

[loki]

these seem so much like teaser articles... i'm sure lots of people can't wait, especially the media.

we know it'll have the 2.4L hybrid.... hopefully the other powertrains are great too

[Paolino]

I really can't wait to see.

[KillFort]

I remember talking to someone in the industry at the end of last year and they said the same thing... the upcoming Malibu is a real looker.

[T-Keith]

I hope they do well with it, but I'm disapointed to see GM get rid of their smaller midsize cars. A malibu/G6 size car is great because you have room for four adults, but still have a compact narrow car. The Cobalt is too small for most people, the Grand Am/G6 and similar GM cars have always been segment bridging cars that attracted a lot of people and were always so much nicer then their smaller counterparts.

[pow]

these seem so much like teaser articles...  i'm sure lots of people can't wait, especially the media.

we know it'll have the 2.4L hybrid.... hopefully the other powertrains are great too

199970[/snapback]

Hopefully it's a real hybrid, to take on the Camry.

[Mule Bakersdozen LS]

I hope for GM's sake, Malibu will be a home-run-the current Malibu is a pretty crummy car-it needs to be almiost perfect, spacious, and that trunk better be pushing at least 16 cubic feet, though 17 like the 1997-2005 model would be better. (2004-05 Classic, that is.) I'm waiting to see this car more than CTS, Enclave, Astra, or whatever else is coming for 2008.

[prototype66]

From the pics i've seen and the word on the street, this will be a great product that will appeal to many different groups.I for one will be looking to buy one myself.It may not appeal to everyone but no one car does. I think it will be a touchdown! Edited October 2, 2006 by prototype66

[Intrepidation]

I don't believe it will be a home run... I do believe it will sell well, and much better than the current one...but it's not something that will do for Chevy what the 300C did for Chrysler. Why? Because while revolutionary for Chevy as a brand, it's not revolutionary for the segmen like the 300 was for it's segment. It's still FWD, will have 4 cylinders and V6's and a hybrid, 6-speed automatics, a nice shape, and hopefully a nice interior...but all that does is make the car competetive. I seriously doubt there's something segment-busting about it.

Granted, from what I have seen so far i really like the car, and it's garunteed to sell much better than the current POS...I just don't believe it'll be a home run like the 300C for Chrysler.

Edited October 2, 2006 by Dodgefan

[Chicagoland]

Cars can have FWD and a 4 cylinder standard and be a 'home run'. But, it remains to be seen for real.

300C was a home run, but mostly in reviews, and it was only the top of the 300 line up. Now it is not really selling as hot its first year. Also, the 300c's 'aura' isn't offsetting all the unsold Dodge/Jeep SUV's. Or the unsold Magnums and Chargers. Heads are going to roll for the 'sales bank', for sure. So much for Chrysler being "the only Detroit makers who gets it"

[Cadillacfan]

First of all, the current Malibu isn't a POS. It can be a lot better but it's still a good, dependable car. I know a lot of people who own it and love it.

Secondly, you can't predict that the Malibu won't rock the segment. The new Camry is selling like wildfire across the country and it certainly isn't anything special. It offers nothing new to the segment and it draws so many visual cues from it's competitors (especially Mazda) that it should've been anything but a hit.

They're hard to find in the capital district and even in Buffalo because they're selling so many of them. I know this because a cousin from the DC area is looking to buy one and they have no available there or here. The Greater Buffalo/Niagara region is Chevy territory and yet the Camry is still selling out. Why is that? Well, even though it's a Toyota, it still looks good to most people. We live in an age where brand loyalty is no longer a main reason to buy a new car. If a product looks good and upscale for a cheaper price, people will go for it. If Chevy can do that with the Malibu and offer all the same options when the new model comes out, it could do a lot of damage in the segment.

Hey, you may be right. But all the hints we've been given points to a certified hit for Chevy.

Edited October 2, 2006 by Cadillacfan

[sciguy_0504]

Count me as having low expectations after the Aura. I know GM can do trucks and SUVs well but that has not transferred over to its cars. Plus, low expectations can lead to a big (positive) surprise.

[titan]

I don't believe it will be a home run... I do believe it will sell well, and much better than the current one...but it's not something that will do for Chevy what the 300C did for Chrysler. Why? Because while revolutionary for Chevy as a brand, it's not revolutionary for the segmen like the 300 was for it's segment. It's still FWD, will have 4 cylinders and V6's and a hybrid, 6-speed automatics, a nice shape, and hopefully a nice interior...but all that does is make the car competetive. I seriously doubt there's something segment-busting about it.

Granted, from what I have seen so far i really like the car, and it's garunteed to sell much better than the current POS...I just don't believe it'll be a home run like the 300C for Chrysler.

200305[/snapback]

I see your point, and agree with most of it. Though the next Malibu won't shake the segment to it's core, it's seems that it will finally, finally be a true competitor to the bread and butter leaders of the segment. If it can finally put real dent in Camry's sales, then Chevy's got a success. The next Impala, from all the rumors and CGI's I've seen will be absolutely awesome. I think the Impala and Malibu will both draw customers into the showroom, and sales will feed off each other, and help elevate the entire lineup. In esscence, the Malibu WILL do for Chevy what the Fusion DIDN'T do for Ford... not say the Fusion's a sub-par product, because it's not. But it (nor the 500) were the saviors of Ford that Ford thought they would be.

[Northstar]

I don't believe it will be a home run... I do believe it will sell well, and much better than the current one...but it's not something that will do for Chevy what the 300C did for Chrysler. Why? Because while revolutionary for Chevy as a brand, it's not revolutionary for the segmen like the 300 was for it's segment. It's still FWD, will have 4 cylinders and V6's and a hybrid, 6-speed automatics, a nice shape, and hopefully a nice interior...but all that does is make the car competetive. I seriously doubt there's something segment-busting about it.

Granted, from what I have seen so far i really like the car, and it's garunteed to sell much better than the current POS...I just don't believe it'll be a home run like the 300C for Chrysler.

200305[/snapback]

The only reason the 300 was so successful was because of the Hemi and styling, and I think most of it was styling. Not many cared that it was RWD. If the Malibu has knock-out and looks like a $30-40k car for $17k, then I see no reason why it won't be a home run.

Most cars in the segment fit your description of the Malibu. FWD, I4/V6, hybrid option, 6-speed auto. However, what most of them lack is standout styling, and certainly none of them offer knock-out styling. That will be the Malibu's ace in the hole if all the reports are true about its looks.

[ocnblu]

I'm still not sure why people keep saying LX buyers "don't care" that the car is RWD. I have not seen documentation.

[Angry Dad]

Count me as having low expectations after the Aura.  I know GM can do trucks and SUVs well but that has not transferred over to its cars.  Plus, low expectations can lead to a big (positive) surprise.

200406[/snapback]

Cripes, Toyota could put it's badge on a Yugo and you'd be here declaring it superior to a Ferrari.

The current Camry is a dud in styling following on the heels of a confusing at best Avalon and yet to be released but already declared failure Tundra. And yeah I've got insight on this one, the Malibu kicks the Camry in every direction styling wise. Just like the Aura has already done. Don't get it, read the others on this board that haven't blindly followed the orders from the great Kool-Aid dispenser.

Bottom line is GM has caught it's stride styling wise. Toyota still has it's shoelaces tied.

[regfootball]

First of all, the current Malibu isn't a POS.  It can be a lot better but it's still a good, dependable car.  I know a lot of people who own it and love it.

Secondly, you can't predict that the Malibu won't rock the segment.  The new Camry is selling like wildfire across the country and it certainly isn't anything special.  It offers nothing new to the segment and it draws so many visual cues from it's competitors (especially Mazda) that it should've been anything but a hit.  

They're hard to find in the capital district and even in Buffalo because they're selling so many of them.  I know this because a cousin from the DC area is looking to buy one and they have no available there or here.  The Greater Buffalo/Niagara region is Chevy territory and yet the Camry is still selling out.  Why is that?  Well, even though it's a Toyota, it still looks good to most people.  We live in an age where brand loyalty is no longer a main reason to buy a new car.  If a product looks good and upscale for a cheaper price, people will go for it.  If Chevy can do that with the Malibu and offer all the same options when the new model comes out, it could do a lot of damage in the segment.

Hey, you may be right.  But all the hints we've been given points to a certified hit for Chevy.

200371[/snapback]

problem is the Camry in no way looks 'upscale'.

I'm still not sure why people keep saying LX buyers "don't care" that the car is RWD.  I have not seen documentation.

200513[/snapback]

those I know who have got a 300 bought it for the penis extender (or penis provider) factor more than anything. I can guarantee the two I know who got a 300 likely have no clue which wheels are doing the driving. The third person I know who looked at one but ultimately got a Town and Country instead, had a previous 300 and likely had no clue as well.

That said, I am sure some charger buyers are buying on RWD alone. Too bad they are getting a hellaciously ugly car on that RWD chassis.

Edited October 2, 2006 by regfootball

[Northstar]

I'm still not sure why people keep saying LX buyers "don't care" that the car is RWD.  I have not seen documentation.

200513[/snapback]

I don't have documentation, but I do first-hand experience. One of my dad's co-worker's wife was looking at the 300, and they had test drove it and everything, and then when I asked her if she knew it was RWD, she said, "No, it is? I don't know if I want it then." So, obviously some dealerships are touting that it's RWD in order to sell it, or she would have known that already. Few people are going to be drawn into the showroom because a vehicle is FWD or RWD. They get drawn into the showroom because of styling.

Heck, someone asked me if the Solstice was FWD. Obviously they didn't like it because it was RWD, but because it's drop-dead gorgeous.

[Cadillacfan]

problem is the Camry in no way looks 'upscale'.

That's your opinion. But many people I know who own it and like it (which is only a handfull) and the auto magazines (yeah, I know they're a little biased) have said it looks much more upscale to the previous model. I'd have to agree. Especially with it's high belt-line and stance of the vehicle. Now, upscale doesn't mean beautiful, but it's much better then the previous model.

If GM is going for the same approach with the new Malibu as Toyota did with the new Camry, it will do well. It looks like they are aiming directly at the Camry this time judging from the spy photos.

Edited October 2, 2006 by Cadillacfan

[turbo200]

I don't have documentation, but I do first-hand experience. One of my dad's co-worker's wife was looking at the 300, and they had test drove it and everything, and then when I asked her if she knew it was RWD, she said, "No, it is? I don't know if I want it then." So, obviously some dealerships are touting that it's RWD in order to sell it, or she would have known that already. Few people are going to be drawn into the showroom because a vehicle is FWD or RWD. They get drawn into the showroom because of styling.

Heck, someone asked me if the Solstice was FWD. Obviously they didn't like it because it was RWD, but because it's drop-dead gorgeous.

200538[/snapback]

you're absolutely right. however, one massive argument in favor of RWD, and I know you're not making this a FWD v. RWD thing, I just want to defend the RWD camp and play the underdog....one massive argument in favor of RWD is that it is because of the setup of this type of chassis that can allow for such drop dead gorgeous looks and proportions. Additionally, RWD has a certain feel to it that many will find addicting and even, gasp, pleasureable, once they do give it a chance, that is why the solid road feel and neutral handling benefits of RWD can often sway the purchase, even if RWD was not a list of priorities on the buyers' list and even if they do not know they are buying a RWD car.

[turbo200]

problem is the Camry in no way looks 'upscale'.

200528[/snapback]

you're wrong. bam snap crackle pop.

okay, the point of that little excersize was to show you that your opinion will not always be shared by others. it'll be better for the sake of discourse if you start thinking like that.

Camry is definitely an upscale looking car. Fish face aside, the shape is generally luxurious and Lexus-like, that's what most people, who are already import buyers and have been successfully converted and secluded and secured, like about it. It is anonymous, but it isn't cheap looking, that's for damn sure. Interior materials aren't a cut above though, Accord has it on Camry.

[turbo200]

I don't believe it will be a home run... I do believe it will sell well, and much better than the current one...but it's not something that will do for Chevy what the 300C did for Chrysler. Why? Because while revolutionary for Chevy as a brand, it's not revolutionary for the segmen like the 300 was for it's segment. It's still FWD, will have 4 cylinders and V6's and a hybrid, 6-speed automatics, a nice shape, and hopefully a nice interior...but all that does is make the car competetive. I seriously doubt there's something segment-busting about it.

Granted, from what I have seen so far i really like the car, and it's garunteed to sell much better than the current POS...I just don't believe it'll be a home run like the 300C for Chrysler.

200305[/snapback]

cautious optimism is best, I'm in this camp. Dealers don't usually know stud from a loser.......but some of them can tell the difference, perhaps if they are multi-brand. I expect for it to be segment competitive, and it's looks to be killer, I hope this will be enough to ricochet the segment. I won't have expectations like that for a GM vehicle because they have yet to prove my faith is justified...except in concept form.

[ketch]

While many who still consider American iron will consider this new version (me for example), I fear those turned off by bad experiences and even heresay about someone else's poor luck, will run away from this car. There is a whole generation that will never return to American cars, and thats at least sad, and at worst extremely niave and shortsighted. I just don't see how this car will out do the percieved value of a Camry or Accord to sway them, no matter how good it is.

[daves87rs]

While many who still consider American iron will consider this new version (me for example), I fear those turned off by bad experiences and even heresay about someone else's poor luck, will run away from this car. There is a whole generation that will never return to American cars, and thats at least sad, and at worst extremely niave and shortsighted. I just don't see how this car will out do the percieved value of a Camry or Accord to sway them, no matter how good it is.

200609[/snapback]

Maybe for a few years...but I think that will change.

Even those who I know feel that way-a few are already breaking away..

One already traded his civic for a G5.

So times are changing...even if it is slowly...

[Croc]

you're wrong. bam snap crackle pop.

200574[/snapback]

OK mr. rice krispies...

okay, the point of that little excersize was to show you that your opinion will not always be shared by others. it'll be better for the sake of discourse if you start thinking like that.

200574[/snapback]

...and maybe reg doesn't share your opinion? don't tell him how to think...i think he's old enough to think for himself however he sees fit.

[GMman]

There is a whole generation that will never return to American cars, and thats at least sad, and at worst extremely niave and shortsighted.

200609[/snapback]

Well said.

[FUTURE_OF_GM]

I hope it is a home run...

Is it just me or 1) does it seem like the Aura is failing to sell that well so far OR 2) They must've ramped up awfully fast!

[boblutzfan]

I hope it is a home run...

Is it just me or 1) does it seem like the Aura is failing to sell that well so far OR 2) They must've ramped up awfully fast!

200712[/snapback]

Haven't heard any numbers about the Aura yet. But sadly - I haven't seen many ads for the Aura either. If they have ramped up production then why are they hard to find on San Antonio Dealer lots?

For some reason - it takes GM launch vehicles about six to twelve months to get traction. Even if the Aura has a slow start - I wouldn't count it out until this time next year. When the Outlook launches - I suspect dealer traffic will be higher than ever. Many people may then see the Aura for the first time. Let's hope that the Saturn dealerships have the right mix of vehicles for potential buyers to see and drive.

[Northstar]

We'll see how the Aura did last month pretty shortly when sales figures are released.

[ponchoman49]

First of all, the current Malibu isn't a POS.  It can be a lot better but it's still a good, dependable car.  I know a lot of people who own it and love it.

Secondly, you can't predict that the Malibu won't rock the segment.  The new Camry is selling like wildfire across the country and it certainly isn't anything special.  It offers nothing new to the segment and it draws so many visual cues from it's competitors (especially Mazda) that it should've been anything but a hit.  

They're hard to find in the capital district and even in Buffalo because they're selling so many of them.  I know this because a cousin from the DC area is looking to buy one and they have no available there or here.  The Greater Buffalo/Niagara region is Chevy territory and yet the Camry is still selling out.  Why is that?  Well, even though it's a Toyota, it still looks good to most people.  We live in an age where brand loyalty is no longer a main reason to buy a new car.  If a product looks good and upscale for a cheaper price, people will go for it.  If Chevy can do that with the Malibu and offer all the same options when the new model comes out, it could do a lot of damage in the segment.

Hey, you may be right.  But all the hints we've been given points to a certified hit for Chevy.

200371[/snapback]

There are many 07 Camrys at our 2 local dealers in Upstate, NY. As far as the Camry looking good: a turd pig can wear lots of lipstick but a good looker it will never make!

Edited October 3, 2006 by ponchoman49

[CARBIZ]

I have to take exception to the remark that there is a whole generation of people who will NEVER consider an American car.

First of all, never is a LONG time.

Secondly, from what I am seeing/hearing, this is going to be a cycle that will work itself out. Both Ford and GM have gotten religion, product wise, but even if that turns out not to be true, the horror stories from the Honda/Toyota camp are increasing. It is inevitable that the circle will complete itself.

The generation that is being referred to will drink the Japan Inc koolaid for a while, but as their quality problems mount and the true cost of ownership becomes evident (and those who bought these cars take their blinders off and realize they paid too much), there will be a backlash.

I am already witnessing some of it. Customers complaining how they were treated at the import stores, either during the sales process or a service horror story, and the sheer audacity of the employees at the dealership level is going to haunt them in the long haul, too.

And the constant GM/Ford bashing by employees at the import dealers is starting to annoy people, too.

This too shall pass.

[Spike]

We'll see how the Aura did last month pretty shortly when sales figures are released.

200837[/snapback]

It sold 3,183 copies...

[FAPTurbo]

I hope it is a home run...

Is it just me or 1) does it seem like the Aura is failing to sell that well so far OR 2) They must've ramped up awfully fast!

200712[/snapback]

Haven't heard any numbers about the Aura yet.  But sadly - I haven't seen many ads for the Aura either.  If they have ramped up production then why are they hard to find on San Antonio Dealer lots?

For some reason - it takes GM launch vehicles about six to twelve months to get traction.

200821[/snapback]

Maybe because people are waiting for Consumer Reports' Auto Issue before they even consider purchasing an Aura...

[Mr.Krinkle]

Maybe because people are waiting for Consumer Reports' Auto Issue before they even consider purchasing an Aura... 

200919[/snapback]

im thinking the word of mouth will be good on the aura.

there really arent too many cars people run out to buy. even the camry had a lackluster start and thats a shoe in to sell well.

the malibu will strike a similar chord the 300 hit if its not overhyped by then.

Edited October 3, 2006 by Mr.Krinkle

[I hope GMRULES again]

The title of the thread "New Malibu will be a home run" made me think of Madonna's current hit "I've heard it all before" "I've heard it all before" "I've heard it all before" .

[frogger]

Its hard to imagine it being a home run, I guess its a lot more interesting than a slightly modified Aura. Maybe its just a home run compared to the current Bu.

[turbo200]

I have to take exception to the remark that there is a whole generation of people who will NEVER consider an American car.

  First of all, never is a LONG time.

  Secondly, from what I am seeing/hearing, this is going to be a cycle that will work itself out.  Both Ford and GM have gotten religion, product wise, but even if that turns out not to be true, the horror stories from the Honda/Toyota camp are increasing.  It is inevitable that the circle will complete itself.

  The generation that is being referred to will drink the Japan Inc koolaid for a while, but as their quality problems mount and the true cost of ownership becomes evident (and those who bought these cars take their blinders off and realize they paid too much), there will be a backlash.

  I am already witnessing some of it. Customers complaining how they were treated at the import stores, either during the sales process or a service horror story, and the sheer audacity of the employees at the dealership level is going to haunt them in the long haul, too.

  And the constant GM/Ford bashing by employees at the import dealers is starting to annoy people, too.

  This too shall pass.

200884[/snapback]

it won't work itself out. there are people who wouldn't be seen driving an American car. That's not a good reason, imo, so I usually look at those people in a pretty disgusted way. Others won't drive because they think they are inferior in a number of way, I too think this is too general of a reason so I usually pry if that is the answer. Why do you think they are inferior? They just seem cheaply made. That sometimes is the answer, other times it can be a more general vague remark.

To think the circle will complete itself is rather naive and ludicrous. To think that all of a sudden quality and workmanship will start to decrease for no good reason other than Toyota/Honda's mutual masterful discipline all of a sudden had a great lapse is pretty ludicrous too. It will take a long time, and a lot of incredible, never before seen designs to steal back consumers. It will also take the typical refinement that is expected in those cars. And still, most Honda/Tioyota buyers will still stick with what they know best. They know the car, they trust the car, they place thier heart in the idea that this will be the car that will serve them well. It is very very hard to undo that thinking.

[I hope GMRULES again]

it won't work itself out. there are people who wouldn't be seen driving an American car. That's not a good reason, imo, so I usually look at those people in a pretty disgusted way. Others won't drive because they think they are inferior in a number of way, I too think this is too general of a reason so I usually pry if that is the answer. Why do you think they are inferior? They just seem cheaply made. That sometimes is the answer, other times it can be a more general vague remark.

To think the circle will complete itself is rather naive and ludicrous. To think that all of a sudden quality and workmanship will start to decrease for no good reason other than Toyota/Honda's mutual masterful discipline all of a sudden had a great lapse is pretty ludicrous too. It will take a long time, and a lot of incredible, never before seen designs to steal back consumers. It will also take the typical refinement that is expected in those cars. And still, most Honda/Tioyota buyers will still stick with what they know best. They know the car, they trust the car, they place thier heart in the idea that this will be the car that will serve them well. It is very very hard to undo that thinking.

201008[/snapback]

I pretty much agree with your statement. I don't see hardly any import buyers coming back to the fold. There may be a few here and there but probably a very small percentage. Hate to be so negative but I see market share and sales for the big 2.5 continuing to decline year after year with no end in sight. Import buyers are staying with imports and current detroit owners are defecting day after day.

[turbo200]

I pretty much agree with your statement. I don't see hardly any import buyers coming back to the fold. There may be a few here and there but probably a very small percentage. Hate to be so negative but I see market share and sales for the big 2.5 continuing to decline year after year with no end in sight. Import buyers are staying with imports and current detroit owners are defecting day after day.

201020[/snapback]

it's not being negative, it's being realistic. you don't have to feel down for them either, they have had plenty of warnings and have been told what changes were needed. the biggest problem they are all facing is image. image needs product to change it. the problem has always been they haven't been able to figure out what they are doing wrong with product to achieve the image they have. the answer is mostly everything they have done has been wrong in one way or another. sit in a tahoe today, brand new, excellent engine chassis and look, the interior still looks outdated, still feels flimsy, still has lousy tolerances in some areas, and just fails to impress all around. they could be doing more to change still. they had a window of opportunity these last few years, but kept with 0% instead and no major good product intros. the leaders of the pack, STS, G6, impala have been all completely uninspired and riddled with image problems thanks to the same mistakes made over and over again.

[pow]

I pretty much agree with your statement. I don't see hardly any import buyers coming back to the fold. There may be a few here and there but probably a very small percentage. Hate to be so negative but I see market share and sales for the big 2.5 continuing to decline year after year with no end in sight. Import buyers are staying with imports and current detroit owners are defecting day after day.

201020[/snapback]

The new Malibu should help GM with the on-the-fence buyers, those who are lured in by Camrys and Accords but haven't made the switch yet.

[GMman]

Import buyers are staying with imports and current detroit owners are defecting day after day.

201020[/snapback]

What are you basing this on?

I happen to know an ass load of folks who left bmw for cadillac, so my personel observations don't support that. I just didn't know if there specific sales numbers to the contrary.

Edited October 4, 2006 by GMman

[CARBIZ]

The car business is cyclical, my friend. Don't get sucked up into the media's casting of this market share drop: GM's absolute numbers have not dropped by that much.

And there was a time, not too long ago when people wouldn't be caught dead driving that "Jap Crap." I remember the reaction of my highschool auto mechanics class to a friend's Datsun 200SX, surrounded by a sea of Mustangs, Camaros, Skyhawks and the like. The buying public is very fickle.

Some import buyers are defecting, once confronted with the sky high shop rates and prices of replacement parts. It is clear that GM has "gotten it" with respect to the product. The new Impala is better than the previous, one, etc. If the Malibu turns out to be amazing to look at there will be all kinds of people who will jump on the bandwagon, whether they are driving a Camry or not.

Sheeple, remember? CR is slowly coming around. Even they are sucking in their breath about the new Avalon. They were cautiously optmistic about the Cobalt.

I have said this before, but I will repeat it: not too long ago, Toyota only had 4 or 5 models to worry about. Now, they have triple that and adding more every year. Welcome to reality, Toyota - let's see how well you can juggle 20 balls in the air.

[ToniCipriani]

While many who still consider American iron will consider this new version (me for example), I fear those turned off by bad experiences and even heresay about someone else's poor luck, will run away from this car. There is a whole generation that will never return to American cars, and thats at least sad, and at worst extremely niave and shortsighted. I just don't see how this car will out do the percieved value of a Camry or Accord to sway them, no matter how good it is.

200609[/snapback]

Didn't we had several age census here? Most of us are in the 20s range. So I don't see the point about "this generation".

[nferr]

First of all, the current Malibu isn't a POS.  It can be a lot better but it's still a good, dependable car.  I know a lot of people who own it and love it.

Secondly, you can't predict that the Malibu won't rock the segment.  The new Camry is selling like wildfire across the country and it certainly isn't anything special.  It offers nothing new to the segment and it draws so many visual cues from it's competitors (especially Mazda) that it should've been anything but a hit. 

They're hard to find in the capital district and even in Buffalo because they're selling so many of them.  I know this because a cousin from the DC area is looking to buy one and they have no available there or here.  The Greater Buffalo/Niagara region is Chevy territory and yet the Camry is still selling out.  Why is that?  Well, even though it's a Toyota, it still looks good to most people.  We live in an age where brand loyalty is no longer a main reason to buy a new car.  If a product looks good and upscale for a cheaper price, people will go for it.  If Chevy can do that with the Malibu and offer all the same options when the new model comes out, it could do a lot of damage in the segment.

Hey, you may be right.  But all the hints we've been given points to a certified hit for Chevy.

200371[/snapback]

Yeah, I have a current Malibu Maxx and we love it. Great everyday car. Quick, handles decently, lot's of room. Seems to be screwed together pretty well and has a great ride. We also have an 04 Escalade and an 06 BMW X3 and the Malibu gets lots of use anyway. I just think they missed the boat on the sedan styling, I like the looks of the Maxx but hatchbacks don't seem to sell very well.

[prototype66]

Are there ANY pics w/o cammo yet?

[mustang84]

I don't know about you guys, but I have noticed a lot of new domestics on the road here at my college. One of my friends just bought a 2005 Escape, another just bought a Saturn Vue, and a co-worker from last summer is looking into a Fusion. I'm seeing tons of new G6s, Mustangs, Cobalts, and Focuses on campus...and even some Fusions now and then. It seems like my generation doesn't share the same bias toward American cars as many of the Boomers do...we didn't live through the "bad times."

Whereas some Boomers seem to just care about reliability, younger people largely care about the style of their vehicle. This is why it's great to see the Big 2.5 pumping more dollars into the styling department...bland isn't going to win people over anymore.