2017 Chevy Malibu Review

The Malibu LT with the Convenience and Technology package is well-priced and gets you a nice assortment of luxuries, though we're not big fans of the 1.5-liter engine. Happily, the Malibu Hybrid is equipped similarly to the LT, and it too can be outfitted with the Convenience and Technology package.

The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan is offered in four main trim levels: L, LS, LT and Premier. The Hybrid is a stand-alone trim level.

The base L is indeed pretty basic. It comes standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (160 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry and ignition, cruise control, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, OnStar, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker audio system. Notably, Bluetooth streaming audio is not provided.

You'll likely be happier with the LS and its 16-inch alloy wheels, laminated (i.e., quieter) side windows and windshield, 4G LTE connectivity with mobile Wi-Fi, Bluetooth audio, and the MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen that includes smartphone integration.

Upgrading to our recommended choice, the LT trim, will also get you 17-inch wheels, heated mirrors, an eight-way power driver seat, rear climate vents and satellite radio.

We like the Hybrid, too, because it's essentially comparable to the LT in terms of equipment and additionally boasts a gas-electric hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (for a combined 182 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque).

If you can swing it, we recommend opting for the Convenience and Technology package, which includes remote ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging and two additional USB charging ports. This also opens the door for the Leather package, which adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a six-way power passenger seat (with power lumbar) and a nine-speaker Bose audio system.

Or if you just want to get everything, the Premier includes all of the above features plus a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), a nine-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, upgraded exterior styling details, ventilated front seats, driver memory settings, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control and a navigation system.