SPIED!! 2012 Malibu

[Shane]

of what is believed to be the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu were just taken by our spy shooters in Europe, while the vehicle was being tested. Known as the Epica in overseas markets, the new Malibu is expected to be sold as the Holden Epica in Australia, and the Chevrolet Epica elsewhere, replacing the Daewoo Tosca, as GM phases out use of the Daewoo brand name in Korea and worldwide.

The taillights show a strong resemblance to those on the Camaro sports coupe, while the headlights look similar to those on the recently unveiled Sonic compact. However, GM is well-known for putting prototype sealed-beam headlamp units on its test vehicles that don’t necessarily reflect the style of the production cars. It is unknown if the new Malibu is going to follow suit of the Sonic, or stick with more conventional flush composite headlamps.

The New Malibu shares its platform with the recently-introduced Buick Regal, which itself is a near-clone of the Opel Insignia.

The new Malibu is believed to have a slightly shorter wheelbase than the current model. The overall shape and profile closely mirrors that of the Regal, but with a more pronounced trunklid and what appears to be a slightly longer overall length. Powertrain details are yet unknown.



For all the latest on the next-generation Chevrolet Malibu, stay tuned right here to Motor Trend!

[robertisaar]

a malibu longer than a regal?

LOL, WTF GM?

[bszopi]

The only thing that concerns we with regards to them comparing it to the Regal, is that the Regal is only available as a 4-cylinder. Even the turbo version is a turbo'd Ecotec. Granted, its putting out like 320hp or something, but its still a 2.4L Eco. I was hoping it was like the 2.8L turbo from the Saabs.

[robertisaar]

import Opel Insignia OPC(or is it OTC?), throw on regal badges = instant WIN

[markpetersonii]

import Opel Insignia OPC(or is it OTC?), throw on regal badges = instant WIN

Completely agree! I would love an OPC!


Sent from my mind using Telekinesis.

[Jonpro03]

I think they should sell it like that, with the fuxed up headlights and the shark teeth bra

[pocket-rocket]

of what is believed to be the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu were just taken by our spy shooters in Europe

I didn't know you had spy shooters in Europe!

The only thing that concerns we with regards to them comparing it to the Regal, is that the Regal is only available as a 4-cylinder. Even the turbo version is a turbo'd Ecotec. Granted, its putting out like 320hp or something, but its still a 2.4L Eco. I was hoping it was like the 2.8L turbo from the Saabs.

320 from an Ecotec?

Sent from my mind using Telekinesis.

That's got to be one of the funniest things I've seen on this site for some time! I even lol'd.

[robertisaar]

the 2.8 turbo is pushing ~320HP, the turbo 2.0 in the regal is only at a whopping 220HP...

[pocket-rocket]

Either way, 320 is still a nice number, even from a 2.8 with all of it's new found added glory.