2007 Detroit Auto Show: The New 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

Troy Clarke, president, General Motors North America, confirmed today (Tuesday, Nov. 21) that the new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu would make its worldwide debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Clarke, speaking to Detroit’s Automotive Press Association, said he couldn’t reveal details on the car but that the new Malibu has “great design, high styling and appointments not expected for the price.”

He said sales success in the midsize car class, in which the Malibu along with the new Saturn Aura compete, is a “critical priority” for GM.

The automaker released a sneak peek photograph that shows the roomier Malibu cabin with Chevy’s classic dual cockpit design. In a press release from GM, Ed Pepper, Chevrolet general manager, said the next-generation Malibu's interior “showcases the precision and detailed execution that will differentiate it among the mid-size car segment.”

He added: “The 2008 Chevy Malibu will offer a number of striking and progressive interiors that use premium materials to demonstrate quality and value not seen before in this segment.”

GM added that the new Malibu builds on the success of its current model, which garnered many awards such as the 2005 J.D. Power Initial Quality Award and the 2006 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “Top Safety Picks” silver medal.