Whereas the old Malibu was dowdy and uninspiring, the redesigned one is much more competitive in its class. Two engines are offered: a 169-hp four-cylinder and a 252-hp V6. A mild-hybrid version of the four-cylinder engine is also available. The car is quiet, rides well, and has responsive and secure handling. The LTZ is tauter, but that doesn't result in compromised ride comfort. The V6 is quick and refined, and the four-cylinder is less noisy than the version we tested in our Pontiac G6. That engine gets a six-speed automatic for 2009. ESC is standard on most trims. The interior is roomy and mostly well put together. IIHS crash-test results are good.