Chevrolet Malibu named 2008 North American Car of the Year

The Chevrolet Malibu was chosen by this year's media jury from a field of 15 cars and 13trucks. GM vehicles captured four of the final six candidate spots for the awards; last year the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Silverado were winners.

"This award is the result of our intensive efforts to put a renewed emphasis on design, execution and craftsmanship into our cars and trucks," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman.

"We're honored that both automotive journalists and consumers are recognizing our efforts. The fact we had four of the six finalist vehicles is more than we could have hoped for."

The NACTOY awards are given annually by prominent automotive journalists who evaluate the vehicles on factors including value for the dollar, innovation, handling, performance, safety and driver satisfaction. This year's jury consisted of 45 automotive journalists from throughout the United States and Canada.
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers strong performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in Chevrolet's global signature design. A broad range of detailed, well-appointed and efficient models is offered, including a fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid model. Sales of the new Malibu began last November.

"Our goal with the 2008 Malibu was to give customers a stylish, uncompromising package that can challenge even the most formidable competitors in the midsize segment," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

"Customers are getting that message, because the new Malibus are selling faster than we can put them on dealers' lots."

In November 2007 the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) signed an agreement with General Motors for the operation of ten hybrid vehicles, of which five will be the hybrid Chevrolet Malibu. The agreement came as a first step in a government-initiated comprehensive plan to reduce pollution caused by vehicle exhaust systems, and to make all vehicles in Dubai friendly to the environment.