EDITOR'S NOTEBOOK: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Day 1

Read Phil Floraday's comments on driving the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.

I was pleasantly surprised by this hybrid Malibu. The overall driving experience was pleasant and the mild hybrid system isn't terribly expensive. It doesn't seem to add the weight and complexity of a traditional hybrid system and the car looks like a regular Malibu.

The switch from electric to gas power is a bit abrupt and rough, but the same problem has plagued other automakers for years. Chevy isn't playing the hybrid card too much with this car. There are some badges on the side that alert others to the hybrid system, but the car looks like a regular Malibu and generally feels like a regular Malibu when you're driving it. I suspect there is a sizeable group of buyers looking for something a little greener than a regular midsize car, but not wanting to shout their eco-consciousness from the rooftops. A Malibu hybrid should serve them nicely.