The all-new eighth generation Chevrolet Malibu is not only the first in the nameplates’ 35-year long history to be offered globally but also the first to launch outside the United States.
On Tuesday, General Motors released the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu in South Korea, which is the first market to receive the mid-size sedan. Local production will begin later this month at GM Korea’s Bupyeong manufacturing plant while sales are scheduled to start on November 1.
“Korea is the first country to produce and sell the all-new Malibu,” commented GM Korea President and CEO Mike Arcamone. “With expressive styling, a comfortable cabin, outstanding ride and handling, and top-notch safety, it will exceed the expectations of consumers.”
The 4,865mm-long 2013 Malibu is offered in South Korea with a choice of two four-cylinder Ecotec petrol engines, both linked to an automatic transmission.
The entry-level 2.0-liter unit is rated at 141HP and delivers a combined fuel economy of 12.4km/lt (equal to 29.2mpg US or 8.0lt/100km), while the larger displacement 2.4-liter engine produces 178HP and returns a fuel economy of 11.8km/lt (27.8mpg US or 8.5 lt/100km).
The new mid-size Chevy is due to launch in China before the end of this year, followed by the United States and Europe next Spring, and Australia towards end of 2012 (as a Holden).
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