The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu isn't all-new -- that was last year's model -- but it is much improved, GM says. Will buyers agree? Photo credit: General Motors.
Most of the new products introduced by General Motors (GM +3.36%) since its 2009 bankruptcy have been very strong. The Chevy Cruze, Cadillac ATS, Chevy Impala, and the company's new pickups have all impressed reviewers who have been hard on GM in the past. Sales have been brisk.
The one exception to GM's string of product successes was the new Chevy Malibu, released early last year. It wasn't bad, but when Ford (F +3.45%) showed its striking new Fusion, the Malibu suddenly seemed like old news. Fusion sales have been setting records, but the Malibu's have been disappointing.
In the old days, GM would have responded by cutting the Malibu's price and playing out the string. But GM's new leaders don't play by the old rules: They fast-tracked a big overhaul for the Malibu. The refreshed 2014 version is on its way to dealers now. But will it be enough of an improvement? In this video, Fool contributor John Rosevear looks at the changes made to the Malibu, and gives his take on what GM still needs to do to turn its troubled sedan into a contender in this tough segment.
