Holden Malibu launched from $28,490

Holden has launched the new mid-size Holden Malibu today, starting from $28,490 plus on-road costs. Available in two trim levels and two engine options, the Malibu takes over the baton from the unloved Holden Epica.

Holden Executive Director Sales and Marketing, Philip Brook, said Holden Malibu was entering the market at a crucial time for Holden.

“Today’s launch sees Holden deliver three fantastic new cars in the important small, medium and large car segments in the first half of this year,” he said.

“With our engineering and technology advances Cruze has been critically acclaimed and VF Commodore, the most technologically-advanced car ever created in Australia, will also hit showrooms this month.

“Both Cruze and Commodore are strong performers for Holden, but it’s been over 5 years since we had a new entrant in the medium size segment.

“When Malibu goes on sale, it completes the revitalisation of our sedan range and has us poised for real sales growth in the second half of the year.”

Built on General Motor’s Epsilon II platform, which was developed by Opel in Germany for the Opel Insignia and Saab 9-5, the Malibu is offered in two highly-specified trim levels, CD and CDX, with either a 123kW/225Nm 2.4-litre DOHC petrol engine or an optional 117kW/350Nm 2.0-litre common rail turbo diesel.

Both are paired with a standard six speed automatic gearbox with Active Select. The petrol claims 8.0L/100km of combined average fuel consumption, while the diesel is rated at 6.4L/100km (or 6.5L/100km for the CDX).

The Malibu has also undergone extensive local engineering programme to create a unique-for-Australia ride and handling set up. It wears specially developed Right Hand Drive Bridgestone performance tyres, 17-inch tyres for the CD and 18-inch for the CDX. In addition, Holden engineers have calibrated the auto transmission for the Malibu on sale in Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Korea, with a unique throttle and pedal map for Australia.

All Holden Malibu’s are equipped with a large 7” colour touchscreen with Mylink app-enabled infotainment system and driver assistance technologies, including reverse, rear park assist, proximity key and push button start.

In addition, the CD features 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, auto headlamps, power height adjustable seats and electric park brake.

Stepping up to the CDX cost a $7,500 premium and brings 18-inch alloy wheels, leather appointed heated front seats with eight-way power adjustments, leather steering, rain sensing wipers and dual zone climate control.

Exterior styling of the CDX is further enhanced with front foglamps, chrome exterior highlights and LED taillights.

The Korean-built Holden Malibu is available in seven exterior colours – Summit white, Moulin Rouge, Carbon Flash Black, Ironite, Snowflake White Pearl, Smokey Eye Grey and Nitrate Silver.