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Not that my opinion matters, but I thought I'd toss it out anyway...
I really do not like the Malibu - I test drove a LTZ v6 before I got my 08 9-3 (to replace my 06 9-5 Aero), and I've rented 4 cylinder models a couple times (not by choice).
When I drive my 9-3 I think about how much better the Malibu could be (they're built on the same platform, after all). To me, the v6 LTZ felt heavy and floaty (ie. drives like an American car). Yes, it has some grunt, but if you think it drives better than an 06 9-5 Aero, then there must have been something wrong with your 9-5.
The 4 cyl doesn't seem as heavy, but it's still a bit floaty, and it's lacking the v6's "grunt".
I really wanted to like this car, too. I grew up in Michigan, worked at GM for a short time and always look at the Detroit iron before I buy another Saab. However, I always buy another Saab because there always seems to be a design flaw in the car that I cannot over look.
For example, in the Malibu, the arm rest on the driver's side door flows into an arm rest built into the side of the car. This creates a corner that sticks out and hits my lower leg whenever I sit in the car (and forget about the corner that sticks out and jams into my leg). This probably isn't an issue for short drivers, but I'm 6' 4'' and when the seat is all the way back, it is very difficult to get in and out without gouging your leg on that corner.
Maybe it's not fair to compare the mid-priced Malibu to the "luxury" Saab, but they also discount Saabs much more than Malibus.
Stan
posted by 76.224.113...
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