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:
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:
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.
Text and photos: Chevrolet