From the official Press Release:

Compared to the 2007 model, the new Malibu is more than three inches (76 mm) longer, with a six-inch-longer (162 mm) wheelbase that delivers a "wheels-at-the-corners" stance and helps provide a smoother, more direct driving experience.

Highlights of the 2008 Malibu design include the all-new contemporary exterior with new dual-port grille design that represents the new face of Chevrolet and twin round taillamps. The interior features two-tone trim and gauges with blue backlighting.

From the official Press Release:

Design

With its strong stance and bold proportions, the 2008 Malibu has a profile that reinforces its substantial feel.

Clean, pure lines and wheels pushed to the corners, as well as a visually lower yet longer greenhouse and a shorter deck suggest motion, agility and attitude. The body sides are clean and elegant, interrupted only by distinctive, wheel-oriented forms that communicate an aggressive, stable stance and a rear profile that connects to Chevrolet’s rich performance heritage.

The Malibu's dual-port grille is characteristic of the new face of Chevrolet cars and the twin round taillamps are Chevrolet cues, too, with LTZ models distinguished by front fog lamps and LED-lit taillamps.

The design elements are complemented with precise details, including minimized panel gaps, a tight wheel-to-body relationship and select use of chrome trim. V-6 models also receive dual chrome exhaust outlets.

Interior

The interior’s attention to detail matches the Malibu's exterior, with an ergonomic design using premium materials that convey quality and value, including a cast skin material on the instrument panel.

The integrated, flowing instrument panel features a Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit design, with prominent gauges backlit in blue, and metallic or wood grain accents.

The new Malibu has greater storage, too, with thoughtful features that maximize utility, including a deep center console with a sliding cover that opens to accommodate larger items.

Also standard is an auxiliary in-dash storage compartment on the instrument panel for sunglasses, CDs and other items. An available rear power center provides a household-style 110-volt AC power outlet.

Features

The Malibu adopts a family of economic DOHC powertrains, including a 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder and a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing.

It is available in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ.

Standard equipment include head-curtain side air bags and front-seat thorax air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, XM Satellite Radio and OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation – a fully integrated GPS navigation system. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on LT and LTZ models.

Among the optional features is a large panoramic sunroof.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu - Preliminary Specifications

Above: the 2007 Chevrolet Malibu model

(Source: Chevrolet)