Auto Shanghai: global Chevrolet Malibu unveiled

Chevrolet has launched the 2013 Malibu at joint events in the US and China as the New York and Shanghai motor shows prepare to open their doors to the public this week.

The Malibu, a midsize sedan which will be sold in nearly 100 countries, has been given a facelift, new engine options and a technology overhaul ahead of its global launch next year.

Designed to compete with other bestsellers such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the new Malibu is an attempt by General Motors (GM) to ensure that the model stays as relevant and popular as it is now - in 2010, it was the company's best-selling vehicle.

The new version is slightly wider and shorter, designed to look more aggressive with a shorter wheelbase and sportier, more aerodynamic stance.

The increased width gives the vehicle's occupants a wider cabin (113 liters more interior volume, according to GM), along with some new innovative storage touches such as the radio face which moves up and down to reveal a six-inch-deep storage area.

Engine options are set to include several new fuel-efficient engines (dropping the car's previous V6 option), including a 2.5L four cylinder Ecotec engine for the US market, although European engine options haven't been revealed.

Pricing is set to be announced later this year.

Also at the Auto Shanghai event, Chevrolet's sister brand Buick unveiled its Envision SUV concept, a global debut which was developed in China and is designed to show the development direction for Buick's future Chinese SUVs.

Incorporating a plug-in hybrid powertrain, solar energy roof and lightweight chassis, it's clearly indicative of a green future for the automaker, although no expense has been spared on the high-tech interior, which includes Bluetooth connectivity, micro-cameras instead of a rearview mirror and a heads-up display.

Auto Shanghai runs April 21-28 in Shanghai, China, and the New York International Auto Show runs April 22 - May 1 in New York City.

http://www.autoshanghai.org/en/