The kids are taller than me now and suddenly it was harder for them to clamber in and out of my BMW 230i coupe. I was able to flat trade the used BMW for a brand new 2023 Chevy Malibu RS. A BMW for a Malibu? Yes indeed. The RS upgrades a number of components in a sporting direction, including a spoiler, leather steering wheel, 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, 18" wheels with higher performance Continental rubber, a taut suspension, a dual exhaust, and cosmetic improvements. GM is run by engineers now. It shows. This mainstream model is drenched in technology. A modern and refined 1.5 liter DOHC, 16-valve, direct injection turbo - and shockingly good CVT - deliver ever-ready acceleration in traffic, and strong fuel economy. An increasingly distinctive 4-wheel independent suspension that's very well sorted delivers a great ride, and crisp handling. Moreover, the steering feels right. The brakes feel right. It's the opposite of the old numbers-only GM. The Malibu drives much better than its numbers. State of the art electronics help when I run out of talent or attention - ABS, stability control, traction control, lane keeping assistance that turns the wheel instead of just vibrating like in my old BMW, and automatic braking for obstacles -including pedestrians - in case I don't see them. The seats are comfortable. The tilting and telescoping wheel dials in a just-right driving position. For convenience and entertainment I have Android Auto (and Apple Car Play) on an 8-inch user-friendly touch screen. Yes 8 inches is good enough and it's all about how they use it. It's intuitive and just works. OnStar brings WiFi to every phone and tablet on board. This Malibu is not for setting lap times. For transporting my crew over the California streets and freeways, it's truly excellent. What a steal.

I love everything about the vehicle. From the body, to the spaciousness, to the carplay and touchscreen navigation/stereo system with beats brand speakers. Moreover, I love the heated seats, power seats, electric emergency/parking brake, the engine, the smoothness of the ride and how much it saves on gas! Furthermore, I admire the option to take off auto stop, the forward collision option, the lane switch assist option, the backup camera and the way the mirrors tilt themselves when you’re parking to help. The car is overall luxurious as well as safe and saves on gas. Five Stars.