New Tranny Propels Malibu Past Accord, Camry
I mentioned previously that the 2009 Ford Fusion would see some important mid-cycle updates including the addition of a new, fuel-saving 2.5L engine. Ford, like General Motors (and to a lesser extent, Chrysler) have the products to compete in the ultra-competitive mid-size car category. The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord have long led in sales, but Ford and GM have been fighting back — hard.
The Malibu's Six Speed Automatic Transmission
GM isn’t waiting for a new model year to unveil a new six-speed manual transmission which will immediately be available for the LTZ version of the Chevrolet Malibu. Pairing its 2.4L Ecotec engine with a Hydra-Matic 6T40 transmission, the Malibu is expected to see an increase in highway fuel mileage from 30 mpg to 32 mpg, besting the Accord and Camry by 1mpg (33 mpg for 2009).
Perhaps most importantly, GM is throwing the gauntlet down in front of its competitors — the Malibu is the only car in this segment with a six-speed automatic transmission. Later this year, the remaining Malibu models will also get the transmission, further securing GM’s technological leadership in this category.
The Money Making Cars
Midsize models are the bread and butter vehicles for most automakers as this is the segment where the most sales are realized. For GM, the all-new for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu represented a watershed moment for the company — the car frequently tops quality and consumer appeal surveys, something the previous model could not achieve.
The sticker price for the LTZ, the top of the line Malibu model, is $26,545. The LS is the Malibu’s value model while the LT offers additional amenities and is situated between the LS and LTZ. A hybrid Malibu is also available. Interestingly, the Malibu with the new transmission returns 22/32 mpg while the hybrid achieves just 24/32 mpg.
(Source: GM Media)
Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in Cary, North Carolina. Matt provides magazine, web content, and article writing services to clients all over the world serving the automotive, human interest, and business communities. The Auto Writer is his automotive weblog.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - New Tranny Propels Malibu Past Accord, Camry