Quietness
Low interior noise was a major factor in this car search, and the Malibu Eco was easily the quietest car I tested with the Buick Regal a close second. Camry and Accord had significantly more cabin noise from the engine and road.
Fuel economy
So far the dash display average is fluctuating between 37 and 40 mpg with mixed interstate (65%)/suburban (35%), "light accelerator foot," speed limit driving; at least 40% better than my prior V6 Toyota Solara.
Powertrain performance
Quite pleased for my low-key, safety and economy-oriented driving style; e-assist feature is almost unnoticeable starting from rest or accelerating, can feel regenerative function associated with deceleration or braking but it is slight.
Feature availability
Leather package option, well-designed dash and steering wheel controls (essentially same as Regal). Reasonably-priced nav package includes terrific Pioneer sound system, Bluetooth, memory seats and mirrors, express up/down windows
Materials & workmanship
Best of any car I have recently purchased; appears to have been carefully assembled with attention to detail which I thought had been forgotten with distant-past GM purchases; for my needs this vehicle appears to be an exceptional value.
Ride smoothness
Though excellent on paved surfaces, some lateral movement on grooved concrete which I suspect to be related to the Goodyear Assurance tires; when these are worn, I plan to replace them with Bridgestone Ecopia 422's.
Rear seat room & comfort
This is tight if front seats are postioned at or close to the back of their range; shorter wheelbase in this model compared to prior version. Rear seat access is excellent (i.e, for infant car seats, small item transport).
Cargo capacity
Reduced due to battery pack in trunk - expected. A couple of golf stand bags can be placed back there, but it is tight. Rear seats fold down, but pass-through is relatively small; more realistic to place items in back seat when trunk is full.
Discounts & incentives
Minimal at launch given that it is a new model; likely to change as more units become available.
Past personal experience
Lots of problems with GM vehicles in the 70's and 80's - first purchase from them in 28 years; but this was easily the best vehicle I tested for my current wants and needs. We'll see. TrueDelta reporting will reflect my experience.
