2006 CHEVROLET MALIBU MAXX NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx?
The lineup for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx expands slightly. There's a new SS trim available and it comes with a 240-horsepower, 3.9-liter V6. The existing trim levels have also been renamed: last year's base model is now the LS, the former LS is now the LT and the LT becomes the LTZ. Other minor changes to the Malibu Maxx this year include a new front-end appearance and wheels, updated interior trim pieces, a four-spoke steering wheel and child-proof door locks for the rear doors.

Advantages of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx:

• Impressive rear passenger room
• Euro-engineered platform
• Optional DVD entertainment system
• Optional remote starting system
• Utility of reconfigurable cargo area and hatchback

Objections to the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx:

• No all-wheel-drive option
• Poor straight-line stability thanks to lifeless electric steering

Editor's Advice:
If the standard Chevrolet Malibu doesn't have what it takes to attract attention in the crowded mid-sized sedan marketplace, the functional Malibu Maxx sure does. This is an interesting concept, but we're not as fond of it as other wagons. Part of the problem is styling – the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx is not attractive, and that's what doomed the otherwise appealing Pontiac Aztek. The other part of the problem is that the sloped hatchback eats too much cargo space. It's a lot tougher to put a Golden Retriever in the back of the Malibu Maxx than it is with a Volkswagen Passat wagon or Pontiac Vibe. There's no problem if you drive a Maxx and you like it. Just make sure you drive a few other wagons, as well, for comparison.