By Christian Seabaugh, Motor Trend - When we first drove the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, we felt safe proclaiming it "the flavor of the week," as it was good, just not exactly class-leading material. We had higher hopes for the Malibu's two other powerplants but didn't yet know how potent they'd be -- until now. Chevrolet has announced the power outputs of the 2013 Malibu's 2.5-liter naturally aspirated I-4, and more importantly, its turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4.The 2013 Malibu's new 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 will likely be the engine to get enthusiasts (if there are any in the midsize family sedan segment) hot and bothered. The Ecotec turbo four produces 259-hp and a stout 260 lb-ft of torque between 1700 and 5500 rpm. Chevy says the engine produces more horsepower than any V-6 previously offered under the hood of the malibu. Chevy expects 2013 Malibu's equipped with the turbocharged engine to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, though we'll wait and see how fast it really is once we get our hands on it on the test track.
The Malibu's volume engine will likely be the new naturally aspirated 2.5-liter I-4. The four-banger produces 197-hp and 191 lb-ft of torque, which Chevrolet proudly proclaims is "the most torque of any naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the segment." A quick glance at the segment favorites like the 2012 Toyota Camry and the 2013 Ford Fusion reveal that that is in fact, true. The Camry produces 178-hp and 173 lb-ft of torque, while the 2013 Fusion's base four-banger will likely make around 170-hp and 170 lb-ft of torque -- though that figure could change as it nears production.
When the 2013 Chevy Malibu hits dealers it'll initially be available only with the 2.5-liter I-4 and the Malibu Eco's 2.4-liter I-4 and electric motor combo. The 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 is set to join the rest of the lineup this fall.
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