Chevrolet Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS News
03-20-2005, 12:18 PM
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DETROIT — Chevrolet's family of SS models will grow by three members when the General Motors division unveils the TrailBlazer SS, Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS at the auto show in New York this week.
The new 2006 models join SSR, Silverado SS and Cobalt SS Supercharged along with the 2006 Impala SS and Monte Carlo SS, giving Chevrolet an unprecedented eight SS models to sell.
The TrailBlazer SS, a midsize sport-utility, features a Corvette-derived LS2 6.0-liter V8, rated at 391 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. On sale this fall, the TrailBlazer SS is outfitted with a track-tuned suspension and can be ordered with all-wheel drive.
Also available this fall are the SS versions of the Malibu sedan and stretched Malibu Maxx. They are equipped with a 3.9-liter V6 engine rated at 240 hp with 241 lb-ft of torque.
03-20-2005, 12:27 PM
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GM: You dont name a vehicle SS with only 240HP (when Accord and Nissan make at least as much or more with no special badgin).
You are deluting the brand that way. You are saying SS stands for NOTHING SPECIAL!
WTF? Why do I sound like a smart ass when I comment on GM lately? What is wrong with those people lately?
You are deluting the brand that way. You are saying SS stands for NOTHING SPECIAL!
WTF? Why do I sound like a smart ass when I comment on GM lately? What is wrong with those people lately?
03-20-2005, 12:28 PM
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CHEVY MALIBU SS AND MALIBU MAXX SS: INCREASED PERFORMANCE AND VALUE IN MIDSIZE SEDANS
Strong SS heritage of affordable performance, luxury and value
3900 V-6 with VVT delivers 240 hp (179 kw) and 241 lb-ft (326 Nm)
Segment-leading 18-inch wheels and tires
SS-specific exterior and interior appointments
Production begins fall 2005
NEW YORK – Chevrolet announced production plans for the 2006 Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS, vehicles that deliver a strong combination of performance and value in the midsize segment. Product highlights include the 240-horsepower 3900 V-6 with VVT (variable valve timing), segment-largest 18-inch flangeless wheels, and sport-tuned suspension, as well SS-specific exterior and interior appointments.
The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS were introduced at the New York Auto Show, along with the production version of the TrailBlazer SS. The three new vehicles join the SSR, Silverado SS, Impala SS, Monte Carlo SS and Cobalt SS Supercharged, bringing Chevy’s heritage-rich lineup of exciting, attainable performance vehicles to eight.
“Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS bring real performance to a broad audience,” said Brent Dewar, General Motors North America vice president of marketing and advertising. “The SS name has always represented performance for mainstream customers, and these new products deliver it with uncompromising sedan versatility and value – in other words, it is guilt-free fun.”
Both vehicles build on the strengths of the solid Malibu sedan and Malibu Maxx extended sedan platforms, which are based on a rigid, European-designed structure that serves as the foundation for responsive and smooth suspensions, as well as exceptional quietness. The Malibu Maxx features a 6-inch-longer wheelbase yet is slightly shorter overall than the Malibu sedan, creating a unique package of expanded rear-seat room and cargo versatility.
The SS models retain the sedans’ virtues and include the following enhancements:
New 3900 V-6 with VVT delivers 240 hp and 241 lb.-ft. of torque
Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed transmission with manual shift mode and adaptive shift control
SS-specific front and rear fascias, with blacked-out cross-hatch grille pattern, larger grille openings, projector beam fog lamps, rear spoiler and dual chrome-tipped 3.5-inch exhaust outlets
Monochromatic exterior moldings and trim
Segment-largest 18-inch flangeless wheels
Sport-tuned suspension
SS-specific ebony interior with “gun metal” trim accents
New sport seats with larger bolsters, new three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and leather-covered shifter knob
Drivetrain & suspension
Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS are powered by the new 3900 V-6. It is a production variant of GM Powertrain’s new 60-degree V-6 OHV engine family, which is designed to deliver smoothness and quality while balancing strong performance and economy. It is rated at 240 horsepower (179 kw) and 241 lb.-ft. of torque (326 Nm).
The large displacement of the 3900 V-6 – achieved with 99-mm offset bores and an 84-mm stroke – combines with torque-enhancing technologies such as active air intake to produce a broad, flat torque curve that translates into exceptional all-around performance and terrific off-the-line launch feel. With active air intake, air entering the engine is continuously tuned through a valve in the intake manifold to deliver optimized low-, mid-range and high-rpm torque. In fact, 90 percent of peak torque is available from 1800 to 5800 rpm.
Variable valve timing is used to bolster performance, enhance economy and reduce emissions. An electronically controlled cam phaser provides for infinitely variable adjustment of camshaft timing in relation to the crankshaft. By electronically controlling the camshaft, the optimum location can be selected for various engine operating conditions, maximizing torque and horsepower outputs. The 3.9L V-6 is the first production cam-in-block engine to incorporate cam phasing. GM’s new, more powerful E67 engine control module directs the valves’ opening and closing sequence.
Power from the 3900 V-6 is channeled to the front wheels through the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. Tested and challenged each season in championship-winning NHRA drag racing vehicles, the 4T65-E is designed for high torque loads and consistent performance and durability. It also features a manual shift mode and an aggressive 3.69 final drive ratio that enhances the performance driving characteristics of the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS. Adaptive shift control is used to optimize shift patterns during varying driving conditions.
Firmer, more responsive suspension systems complement the powerful 3.9L V-6 drivetrain by elevating the driver’s feeling of control and feedback. New springs in the front and rear are stiffer and work with specially valved struts and shocks to increase damping and response. The diameter of the front and rear stabilizer bars has been increased, too, to help reduce body lean while cornering. Also, a variable-ratio, hydraulically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system provides precise steering feel to create an “on rails” driving experience.
Transferring all the suspension enhancements to the tarmac is a set of 18-inch flangeless aluminum wheels and two available tire choices: an all-season 225/50R18 tire and a “summer only” performance 225/50R18 tire. Momentum is brought to a halt with an enhanced and larger four-wheel disc brake system with standard ABS. The system includes 11.65-inch (296 mm) vented front discs and solid 10.63-inch (270 mm) rear discs. A performance-calibrated traction control system also is standard and is governed by the transmission control module.
Styling & interior appointments
Every vehicle wearing the SS badge conforms to a special dress code that sets it apart from the crowd. For the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS, the upscale and sporty image is conveyed through all-new front and rear fascias, monochromatic body side moldings and exterior trim, rear spoilers – unique between the Malibu and Malibu Maxx – and 18-inch flangeless wheels.
The new front fascias incorporate larger center and lower grille openings, as well as a black cross-hatch grille pattern with gold center Chevy Bowtie emblem, projector beam fog lamps, and a prominent “chin” spoiler. The rear fascias provide a tauter overall look to the vehicles, accenting their performance stance, as well as incorporating cut-outs for the dual chrome-tipped 3.5-inch exhaust outlets.
Four exterior colors are offered: White, Black, Laser Blue Metallic and Silverstone Metallic.
Inside, the vehicles feature SS-specific treatment that emphasizes the performance and luxury touches that are woven into all SS models – a heritage of sportiness and comfort that dates back to the first production SS model, the 1961 Impala Super Sport. The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx’s features include:
All-ebony design theme, including the rear shelf of the Malibu and cargo area of the Malibu Maxx
New sport front seats with enhanced, leather-covered bolsters, contrasting stitching, sport cloth inserts and simulated leather headrests
Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with prominent SS badge
Leather-covered shift knob with contrasting stitching
The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS receive a unique instrument cluster with sport graphics, chrome-ringed gauges, red pointers and the SS logo. The instrument panel also has a redesigned “PRNDM” display, with the “M” designating the vehicles’ manual shift mode.
Comfort and convenience options on both models includes a sunroof, six-disc CD changer, OnStar and XM Satellite Radio. Visit onstar.com and gm.xm.radio.com for more information about OnStar and XM Radio.
Production of the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS will take place at GM’s Fairfax Assembly Plant near Kansas City , Kansas , with production scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2005.
Strong SS heritage of affordable performance, luxury and value
3900 V-6 with VVT delivers 240 hp (179 kw) and 241 lb-ft (326 Nm)
Segment-leading 18-inch wheels and tires
SS-specific exterior and interior appointments
Production begins fall 2005
NEW YORK – Chevrolet announced production plans for the 2006 Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS, vehicles that deliver a strong combination of performance and value in the midsize segment. Product highlights include the 240-horsepower 3900 V-6 with VVT (variable valve timing), segment-largest 18-inch flangeless wheels, and sport-tuned suspension, as well SS-specific exterior and interior appointments.
The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS were introduced at the New York Auto Show, along with the production version of the TrailBlazer SS. The three new vehicles join the SSR, Silverado SS, Impala SS, Monte Carlo SS and Cobalt SS Supercharged, bringing Chevy’s heritage-rich lineup of exciting, attainable performance vehicles to eight.
“Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS bring real performance to a broad audience,” said Brent Dewar, General Motors North America vice president of marketing and advertising. “The SS name has always represented performance for mainstream customers, and these new products deliver it with uncompromising sedan versatility and value – in other words, it is guilt-free fun.”
Both vehicles build on the strengths of the solid Malibu sedan and Malibu Maxx extended sedan platforms, which are based on a rigid, European-designed structure that serves as the foundation for responsive and smooth suspensions, as well as exceptional quietness. The Malibu Maxx features a 6-inch-longer wheelbase yet is slightly shorter overall than the Malibu sedan, creating a unique package of expanded rear-seat room and cargo versatility.
The SS models retain the sedans’ virtues and include the following enhancements:
New 3900 V-6 with VVT delivers 240 hp and 241 lb.-ft. of torque
Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed transmission with manual shift mode and adaptive shift control
SS-specific front and rear fascias, with blacked-out cross-hatch grille pattern, larger grille openings, projector beam fog lamps, rear spoiler and dual chrome-tipped 3.5-inch exhaust outlets
Monochromatic exterior moldings and trim
Segment-largest 18-inch flangeless wheels
Sport-tuned suspension
SS-specific ebony interior with “gun metal” trim accents
New sport seats with larger bolsters, new three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and leather-covered shifter knob
Drivetrain & suspension
Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS are powered by the new 3900 V-6. It is a production variant of GM Powertrain’s new 60-degree V-6 OHV engine family, which is designed to deliver smoothness and quality while balancing strong performance and economy. It is rated at 240 horsepower (179 kw) and 241 lb.-ft. of torque (326 Nm).
The large displacement of the 3900 V-6 – achieved with 99-mm offset bores and an 84-mm stroke – combines with torque-enhancing technologies such as active air intake to produce a broad, flat torque curve that translates into exceptional all-around performance and terrific off-the-line launch feel. With active air intake, air entering the engine is continuously tuned through a valve in the intake manifold to deliver optimized low-, mid-range and high-rpm torque. In fact, 90 percent of peak torque is available from 1800 to 5800 rpm.
Variable valve timing is used to bolster performance, enhance economy and reduce emissions. An electronically controlled cam phaser provides for infinitely variable adjustment of camshaft timing in relation to the crankshaft. By electronically controlling the camshaft, the optimum location can be selected for various engine operating conditions, maximizing torque and horsepower outputs. The 3.9L V-6 is the first production cam-in-block engine to incorporate cam phasing. GM’s new, more powerful E67 engine control module directs the valves’ opening and closing sequence.
Power from the 3900 V-6 is channeled to the front wheels through the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. Tested and challenged each season in championship-winning NHRA drag racing vehicles, the 4T65-E is designed for high torque loads and consistent performance and durability. It also features a manual shift mode and an aggressive 3.69 final drive ratio that enhances the performance driving characteristics of the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS. Adaptive shift control is used to optimize shift patterns during varying driving conditions.
Firmer, more responsive suspension systems complement the powerful 3.9L V-6 drivetrain by elevating the driver’s feeling of control and feedback. New springs in the front and rear are stiffer and work with specially valved struts and shocks to increase damping and response. The diameter of the front and rear stabilizer bars has been increased, too, to help reduce body lean while cornering. Also, a variable-ratio, hydraulically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system provides precise steering feel to create an “on rails” driving experience.
Transferring all the suspension enhancements to the tarmac is a set of 18-inch flangeless aluminum wheels and two available tire choices: an all-season 225/50R18 tire and a “summer only” performance 225/50R18 tire. Momentum is brought to a halt with an enhanced and larger four-wheel disc brake system with standard ABS. The system includes 11.65-inch (296 mm) vented front discs and solid 10.63-inch (270 mm) rear discs. A performance-calibrated traction control system also is standard and is governed by the transmission control module.
Styling & interior appointments
Every vehicle wearing the SS badge conforms to a special dress code that sets it apart from the crowd. For the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS, the upscale and sporty image is conveyed through all-new front and rear fascias, monochromatic body side moldings and exterior trim, rear spoilers – unique between the Malibu and Malibu Maxx – and 18-inch flangeless wheels.
The new front fascias incorporate larger center and lower grille openings, as well as a black cross-hatch grille pattern with gold center Chevy Bowtie emblem, projector beam fog lamps, and a prominent “chin” spoiler. The rear fascias provide a tauter overall look to the vehicles, accenting their performance stance, as well as incorporating cut-outs for the dual chrome-tipped 3.5-inch exhaust outlets.
Four exterior colors are offered: White, Black, Laser Blue Metallic and Silverstone Metallic.
Inside, the vehicles feature SS-specific treatment that emphasizes the performance and luxury touches that are woven into all SS models – a heritage of sportiness and comfort that dates back to the first production SS model, the 1961 Impala Super Sport. The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx’s features include:
All-ebony design theme, including the rear shelf of the Malibu and cargo area of the Malibu Maxx
New sport front seats with enhanced, leather-covered bolsters, contrasting stitching, sport cloth inserts and simulated leather headrests
Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with prominent SS badge
Leather-covered shift knob with contrasting stitching
The Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS receive a unique instrument cluster with sport graphics, chrome-ringed gauges, red pointers and the SS logo. The instrument panel also has a redesigned “PRNDM” display, with the “M” designating the vehicles’ manual shift mode.
Comfort and convenience options on both models includes a sunroof, six-disc CD changer, OnStar and XM Satellite Radio. Visit onstar.com and gm.xm.radio.com for more information about OnStar and XM Radio.
Production of the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS will take place at GM’s Fairfax Assembly Plant near Kansas City , Kansas , with production scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2005.
03-20-2005, 12:52 PM
#7
GEEZER
what a shit box.
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03-20-2005, 12:53 PM
#8
Suzuka Master
Originally Posted by gavriil
...WTF? Why do I sound like a smart ass when I comment on GM lately? What is wrong with those people lately?
I'm afraid that GM's profit warning was the beginning of a death spiral for GM. Maybe if they wind up declaring bankruptcy they can reorganize and secure more profitable terms for funding their onerous healthcare and pension liabilities and have enough to reinvest in the business?
03-20-2005, 03:38 PM
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Originally Posted by SpeedyV6
It seems that GM doesn't make enough profit to be able to reinvest in their business and come up with innovative new products the way honda and Toyota can.
I'm afraid that GM's profit warning was the beginning of a death spiral for GM. Maybe if they wind up declaring bankruptcy they can reorganize and secure more profitable terms for funding their onerous healthcare and pension liabilities and have enough to reinvest in the business?
I'm afraid that GM's profit warning was the beginning of a death spiral for GM. Maybe if they wind up declaring bankruptcy they can reorganize and secure more profitable terms for funding their onerous healthcare and pension liabilities and have enough to reinvest in the business?
03-20-2005, 04:55 PM
#10
I feel the need...
Originally Posted by titan
Very insightful. I've followed GM's business case, and you have some valid points. But, though it's pension costs are high, that's not the main reason their on the ropes. Some of the blame is their's, and some is out of it's hands. Nissan, Toyota, Honda, etc., has factories in the U.S. but aren't bounded by the union. GM simply can't assemble alot of their vehicles as cheaply as the competiton. But in truth, all of these issues would be a moot point if they actually sold cars. They don't sell cars because they have yet to put out product people want to drive. It's really troubling. The material's they used are often substandard; they continue to make all black, all gray, monochrome interiors. The exteriors aren't much better. Somewhere between concept and reality, something's lost in the translation. The G6 concept was perfect for Pontiac, IMO. The real deal is a let down. Especially the interior. Technically speaking, they continue to lag behind the competiton in both engine and transmission offerings. Mercedes will start trickling in it's 7SP auto soon, and Caddy's got a 5SP. Every vehicle within GM should be equipped with atleast a 5SP... Buick and Caddy's should have 6s..
Painfully obvious, yet true nonetheless.
Obvious of course to everyone but the designers at The General, who've been belching mostly crap for the last 30 years.
03-20-2005, 05:15 PM
#11
The sizzle in the Steak
Pure Crap!!!
03-20-2005, 05:54 PM
#13
Suzuka Master
The interior above looks like something I'd expect in a Chevy Cobalt/Cavalier. The Malibu needs to compete with cars like the Nissan Altima and simply is nowhere near being in that league.
03-20-2005, 06:13 PM
#14
I feel the need...
Only 2/3rds of GM's sales are "retail". 1/3rd of their sales are fleet and employee sales - yet another reason why the downward spiral of incentives continues to haunt GM more than anyone else.
IMO - the interior of the Malibu SS is probably one of their more tastefull ones, and yet it just shows how pitifully behind they still are.
IMO - the interior of the Malibu SS is probably one of their more tastefull ones, and yet it just shows how pitifully behind they still are.
03-21-2005, 10:05 AM
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Originally Posted by SpeedyV6
It seems that GM doesn't make enough profit to be able to reinvest in their business and come up with innovative new products the way honda and Toyota can.
03-21-2005, 10:08 AM
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Originally Posted by SpeedyV6
I'm afraid that GM's profit warning was the beginning of a death spiral for GM. Maybe if they wind up declaring bankruptcy they can reorganize and secure more profitable terms for funding their onerous healthcare and pension liabilities and have enough to reinvest in the business?
I agree here. And the competition is fearing this. They know that GM would exit Chapter 11 as a much stronger company (financially).
For something's got to give with regard to the pension issue. It's out of control and it's not sustainable.
03-21-2005, 10:10 AM
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Originally Posted by SpeedyV6
The interior above looks like something I'd expect in a Chevy Cobalt/Cavalier. The Malibu needs to compete with cars like the Nissan Altima and simply is nowhere near being in that league.
I would not even order this interior even for the Cobalt.
talk about a third-rate attempt to bring excitement back to the Malibu name...
03-21-2005, 10:16 AM
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Originally Posted by domn
3.9L and 240HP
In all fairness we knew about this engine last year. It's just that I did not realize that, THAT will be the SS version. I dont mind a low output, large pushrod engine. It's tuned for low rpm HP/torque and low gas consumption. Fine. But dont call it the SS with only 240. The Malibu SS should be equipped with the supercharged 3.8L from the Pontiac GTP making at least 270HP. And no matter what the HP output should smoke all Altimas, Camrys and Accords available including the manual trann-ied ones.
03-22-2005, 12:22 PM
#24
Engineer
what a terrible way to destroy the SS heritage...
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