Malibu's must be improrving...

I haven't seen serious complaints on the newer Malibu. Certainly not like the 1998-2003. GM must have gotten a message somehow. That's good because I'm about due for a new one. (Or perhaps a recent model Buick Allure, I really like the 3.8 engine)

The '08-'11 Malibu is really a body style makeover of the previous generation ('04-'07, particularly the Maxx hatchback in terms of wheelbase). Many parts are shared between the two generations, so GM has had plenty of time to get the current generation right.

There's another new Malibu coming soon ('12 or early '13, depending on whom you believe), which will be similar to the just-released Regal in terms of platform and size. This one will be all-new, so expect some problems in its first year. If you like the current generation, better get an '11.