While those Camaro-inspired square tail lights look rather neat, the new Chevrolet Malibu is not as radically styled as some might have expected.
Chevrolet has played it safe with its new global mid-sized sedan - after all, it will have to satisfy nearly 100 markets around the globe. It might not pencilled in for South African introduction yet, but GMSA are willing to reconsider if market conditions change.
Slotting above the Cruze in Chevy's line-up, the Malibu is powered by a brand new 2.5-litre four-cylinder direct injection petrol engine, putting out 141kW and 245Nm and mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Combined with what GM calls a class-leading chassis, based on the European Opel Insignia's design - including multilink rear suspension - the Malibu was designed to be a really good steer in every respect.
GM has packed a good helping of gadgets into the cabin, a highlight being the MyLink infotainment system that integrates online services like Pandora Internet Radio and Stitcher SmartRadio and also allows hands-free use of selected smart phone applications via Bluetooth.
The dual-cockpit-style interior is also more spacious than before and its insulation system was engineered to make it the quietest car in its segment.
Safety kit includes 10 airbags, lane departure warning, forward collision warning and a rearview camera system.
The Malibu goes on sale 'Stateside early next year, offering LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Yet one has to wonder whether it'll thrive on that side of the pond without a V6 engine - unless GM has one in the pipeline…