Next Malibu tackles weight, space challenges

DETROIT -- The next-generation Chevrolet Malibu will have more interior space and weigh 300 pounds less than the current car, General Motors said today.

Chevrolet will unveil the redesigned 2016 Malibu midsize sedan at the New York auto show next month, along with the next-gen Chevy Spark minicar. The Malibu is expected to go on sale by year end.

Chevy released a teaser shot of the Malibu today that shows a sleeker silhouette with fastback styling.

“The roofline has been stretched rearward, giving a more sleek profile, while the front wheels have moved forward and front and rear overhangs have been reduced," GM global design chief Ed Welburn said in a statement. "Along with the sculpted body side, these cues help Malibu appear more dynamic and sophisticated.”

General Motors divulged few other details of the car, but made clear that engineers addressed two of the biggest problems with the current Malibu: The cramped rear seat and its bloated weight relative to competing sedans.

GM said the Malibu will be built on a new vehicle architecture, with a wheelbase nearly 4 inches longer than the '15 model, creating more rear legroom and interior space.

A lighter high-strength steel structure helped reduce the vehicle's weight, "which benefits the sedan's fuel economy and handling," GM said.

The Malibu was quickly re-engineered following the spring 2011 introduction of the current-generation model, which was panned for its stale front-end styling and tight rear seat. Despite improvements for the 2014 model year, sales have struggled.

Malibu sales fell 6 percent last year, the only one of the top seven midsize sedans to post a decline.