2006–2007 Chevrolet Malibu SS (Revival) | Specs, History

2006–2007 Chevrolet Malibu SS — The Revival Generation’s Sleeper Athlete

Historical Context and Development Background

The 2006–2007 Chevrolet Malibu SS represents the performance apex of the sixth-generation Malibu, the so‑called Revival generation that rode on GM’s Epsilon architecture. Arriving as part of GM’s mid‑2000s push to reinvigorate mainstream nameplates with credible SS variants, the Malibu SS joined contemporary stablemates such as the Cobalt SS, Impala SS, and TrailBlazer SS. Beneath the marketing was genuine hardware: a larger-displacement 3.9‑liter pushrod V6, recalibrated suspension, quicker steering, and larger rolling stock.

Epsilon was GM’s global midsize front‑drive platform, underpinning cars like the Saab 9‑3 and Pontiac G6. For Malibu duty, it delivered a long wheelbase, a spacious cabin, and an independent rear suspension—a marked step forward over the prior-generation chassis. The SS arrived for 2006 in both sedan and Malibu Maxx SS hatchback forms, distinguished by deeper fascias, mesh grillework, rocker extensions, a subtle deck spoiler (sedan), and 18‑inch alloys. Inside, the SS added heavily bolstered seats and trim unique to the variant.

In period, the Malibu SS faced a crowded and increasingly sophisticated midsize field: Honda’s Accord V6, Toyota’s Camry SE V6, Mazda’s sharp‑edged 6s, Ford’s Fusion V6, and the Malibu’s platform cousin, the Pontiac G6 GTP. Against these, the Malibu SS leaned into American muscle cues—torque‑rich power delivery and relaxed long‑legged cruising—rather than high‑rev theatrics.

Engine and Technical Specifications

At the core of the SS is GM’s High Value 60‑degree V6, coded LZ9. It’s a 3.9‑liter, cam‑in‑block (OHV) design with electronic throttle control and sequential multi‑port fuel injection. For SS duty it was tuned for a broad torque curve, pairing well with the 4‑speed automatic.

Transmission is a 4‑speed automatic (4T65‑E) with SS‑specific calibration. Final drive and shift logic were chosen to keep the V6 in its fat midrange, trading outright ratio count for tractable real‑world pace.

Driving Experience and Handling Dynamics

The Malibu SS’s road manners reflect its brief: accessible performance and long‑distance composure. The LZ9 V6 delivers immediate, low‑rev thrust—useful in urban cut‑and‑thrust and relaxed on the highway. Throttle mapping is decisive without feeling jumpy, and the torque plateau masks the 4‑speed’s wider ratio gaps better than the base V6.

Chassis tuning steps beyond the standard Malibu. The SS rides on stiffer springs and dampers, thicker anti‑roll bars, and 18‑inch wheels with performance all‑season rubber. Steering features a quicker ratio with recalibrated assist; effort builds more convincingly than in the regular car, though modest torque steer can surface under hard throttle on broken surfaces. The Epsilon platform’s independent rear suspension adds stability mid‑corner and a planted feel in fast lane changes.

Braking hardware brings four‑wheel discs with ABS and specific pad compound. Pedal feel is consistent and heat management acceptable for a midsize performance variant. Balance tends toward benign understeer, but turn‑in is tidy and the chassis is happiest with smooth inputs—classic SS character in a family‑friendly wrapper.

Performance Specifications

Variant Breakdown

Both SS variants shared core mechanicals and most cosmetics; paint palettes mirrored mainstream Malibus with SS‑specific badging and trim execution.

Ownership Notes: What Enthusiasts Should Know

• Powertrain durability: The LZ9 3.9‑liter is a robust pushrod V6 with a timing chain and straightforward service access. Routine oil changes and cooling system maintenance are the keys to longevity.
• Transmission: The 4T65‑E is widely used across GM; regular fluid/filter service is advisable even if original literature implied extended intervals. Harsh or erratic shifting can often point to a pressure control solenoid issue.
• Steering and front end: Intermediate steering shaft clunk and front strut‑mount wear are known service items. Alignment and fresh bushings markedly improve steering precision on higher‑mileage cars.
• Cooling and gaskets: The High Value V6 family improved upon older GM V6 gasket designs; nonetheless, watch for thermostat housing seepage and aged hoses. Coolant health (Dex‑Cool) is important.
• Brakes and hubs: Front rotor warpage complaints typically trace to heat cycling and pad quality; quality rotors and proper torque sequence help. Front hub assemblies can develop noise with age.
• Parts availability: Excellent interchange with other Epsilon cars and high‑volume GM models keeps wear parts, sensors, and transmission components widely available and affordable.
• Service intervals (typical guidance): engine oil ~5,000–7,500 miles; transmission service ~60,000 miles; coolant ~5 years/100,000 miles; spark plugs ~100,000 miles. Inspect belts, mounts, and suspension annually.
• Restoration difficulty: Low to moderate. Body trim unique to SS is the trickiest to source in perfect condition; mechanicals are straightforward.

Cultural Relevance and Market View

The Malibu SS is notable for returning real performance intention to a nameplate that had been primarily pragmatic for decades. It wasn’t a homologation special nor a track refugee; instead it was a torque‑rich American counterpoint to revvier Japanese and European rivals. Period press often praised its highway composure and value while wishing for a more contemporary multi‑ratio transmission and sharper on‑limit balance.

On the collector spectrum, the Malibu SS remains an under‑the‑radar choice. It generally trades below comparable era sport sedans, with the cleanest, low‑mileage examples and rare colors commanding the strongest money. Documented sales in enthusiast venues have frequently landed in the four‑figure to very low five‑figure range depending on condition, mileage, and body style, with the Maxx SS’s hatch practicality attracting a small but loyal following.

Motorsport pedigree is limited; the SS badge here signifies a factory performance package rather than competition intent. Nevertheless, as the first SS‑badged Malibu of the modern era on a globally competent platform, it has a quiet significance within Chevrolet’s mid‑2000s performance renaissance.

FAQs

How much horsepower does the 2006–2007 Malibu SS have?
Factory rating is 240 hp at 6,000 rpm and 240 lb‑ft at roughly 2,800 rpm from the 3.9‑liter LZ9 V6.

Is the Malibu SS reliable?
With regular maintenance, the LZ9 V6 and 4T65‑E transmission are durable. Common aging issues include front hub bearings, intermediate steering shaft clunk, strut‑mount wear, and—less frequently—transmission pressure control solenoid complaints. Proactive fluid service and quality replacement parts go a long way.

What is the 0–60 time?
Published instrumented tests in period typically recorded 0–60 mph in the high‑6 to ~7‑second range for the sedan, with the Maxx SS slightly behind due to weight.

Does the Malibu SS have rear disc brakes?
Yes. The SS features four‑wheel disc brakes with ABS, unlike some non‑SS Malibus that used rear drums.

What transmission is in the Malibu SS?
A 4‑speed automatic, GM 4T65‑E, with SS‑specific calibration. No manual was offered.

What distinguishes the SS from an LT V6?
The SS adds the 3.9‑liter LZ9 V6, firmer springs and dampers, thicker anti‑roll bars, 18‑inch wheels with performance tires, unique exterior fascias and mesh grille, SS badging, a quicker steering ratio, and sport seats/interior trim.

Are production numbers known?
GM did not publish a detailed public breakout specific to Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS by year and body style. They remain low‑volume within overall Malibu production.

At‑a‑Glance: Technical Snapshot

Why the 2006–2007 Malibu SS Matters

It’s the accessible, torque‑led, American interpretation of the midsize sport sedan formula from a moment when GM was modernizing its global platforms and rekindling the SS identity. For enthusiasts, it offers easy parts support, honest speed, and a usefully understated demeanor—especially compelling in the rarer Maxx SS hatchback.