The full market release of the 2013 model year Chevrolet Malibu is almost upon us and when it does reach dealerships later next year, it will be motivated by an all-new powerplant. Under the hood will be the next variant in General Motor’s stable of high-tech four cylinder engines and the start of the next chapter in the Ecotec family line. Chevrolet engineers went out of their way to make the Malibu’s engine as efficient, quiet and refined as possible.
Displacing 2.5 liters, the new Ecotec is expected to deliver 190 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque; both of which are higher than the current 2.4 liter Ecotec’s ratings. Working hand-in-hand with the Malibu’s aerodynamically potent physique, over 30 mpg on the highway should be achieved. Using technologies such as a variable-displacement oil pump and an actively controlled thermostat, internal friction was reduced by 16 percent. Work was done to the cam phasing, so nothing besides smooth power should be felt during the variable valve timing. Double overhead camshafts and direct injection all add up to a much more refined and softer engine. According Mike Anderson, GM’s global chief engineer, the new 2.5 liter is 40 percent quieter than the 2.4 liter it will replace.
“Engineers also tuned the 2.5L to deliver more of its torque at lower rpm, giving the Malibu a stronger feel at launch and during on-demand maneuvers, such as passing or accelerating on a freeway entrance ramp.”
Source: General Motors
