chevy's secret weapon

New car launches affect automaker positioning. The U.S. auto market looks stable for 2016. So the stage is set for General Motors to reintroduce a vehicle that's been in and out of the Chevy line-up since 1964.

The Chevy Malibu

2016 Chevrolet Malibu

The U.S. auto market hasn't been exactly friendly to larger sedans. The market has been ruled by SUVs and trucks. Chevy is most likely taking a larger than normal risk with the Malibu. However the car has potential to make a mark with car buyers this year. The timing is good as Chevy has the Malibu well positioned to grab a decent portion of the market share.

Auto industry watchers have said that the U.S. auto market is ready for a new larger sedan. Malibu just might be the ticket. With four doors, the Malibu will get onto the radar of those who are looking for more room and want a car.

General Motors has been trying to bolster family sedans. That's no secret. Its two major competitors are the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. GM has ambitious sales goals for the vehicle, of between 200,000 to 300,000 units per year.

What makes the Malibu special? Comfort and technology. It has an 8-inch touchscreen and a really cool front end which adds to its upscale look. A 160-hp turbo 1.5-liter four-cylinder is under the hood; a 250-hp turbo 2.0-liter four is optional.

The Chevrolet brand has the name to deliver and with the new Malibu they're positioned to grab a good share of the four door sedan market. 

MSRP $22,500 - Lease $418 per month

 The hybrid Malibu: 48 mpg city and 45 mpg highway.

caranddriver.com and businessinsider.com were sources for this post