Chrevrolet's latest entry into the mid-size segment, the all-new 2004 Malibu, was introduced Jan. 7, 2003, at the North America International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The sedan is based on GM's "Epsilon" global architecture and will be available in three trim levels -- standard, LS, and LT. Two new powertrains will be offered: a 2.2-liter, 140-horsepower four-cylinder and a 3500, 200-horsepower V-6. The new Malibu also boasts a flexible interior with adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, five-position power seats, and a fold-flat front passenger seat. It also will offer a segment-first factory-installed remote vehicle-start package, allowing drivers to start the car from up to approximately 200 feet away. The 2004 Malibu has dual-stage air bags and is equipped with the first passenger car application of a capacitance-based Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) to suppress air-bag deployment if a child or small adult is in the front passenger seat. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2003 in GM's Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, KS.

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