Introduced more than 40 years ago, the Chevy Malibu has endured numerous body style changes and consumers' fickle buying patterns. But now that it has reached middle age, the midsize staple has a new look and it's still a desirable choice.

Older Malibus are instantly distinguishable on the road, and they're now collectible. The 2006 models, however, which represent another new style change, don't leave much recognizable from yesteryears' editions. Yet, that's not a bad thing.

On the contrary, the angular 2006 models lean toward efficient simplicity. My test drive for the week, the Malibu Maxx hatchback SS, is another in the ever-expanding supply of crossover sedans that also serve as versatile, small family SUV-type vehicles. In industry terminology, the Maxx is a "crossover wagon."

The Maxx features a 3.9-liter, 240-horsepower engine, and like all five Malibu versions available, has a four-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode. The Maxx isn't especially quick or powerful, nor is it sluggish in any driving scenario. It just gets the job done without any particular fanfare.

While satisfactory in city or freeway conditions, the Malibu gets high marks in ride quietness. That nicety is complemented by a spacious, well-designed interior. The seats and steering wheel, for example, are positioned ideally, and there's easy entrance and exit with wide doors. Leg room in the front and rear seats is plentiful for four or perhaps five smaller adults. The hatchback area offers 22.8 cubic feet of capacity. The rear seats fold down and the front seats adjust forward for expanded room for hauling bigger items. There's also a hatchback shelf that affords two-level cargo area loading. The shelf can also serve as utility bench or picnic table.

The Malibu's interior also includes two unique features: a glass skylight over the rear seat and a a rear-seat DVD system with wireless headphone, video game console and a remote control. One outside, feature, oddly styled teardrop side mirrors, might be problematic for those accustomed to more traditionally shaped side mirrors. But after a few days of driving, I adjusted to the mirror style without issue.

Numerous option packages -- called Preferred Equipment Groups -- offer myriad features: remote keyless entry to lumbar adjustment and an upgraded sound system to alloy wheels. Add a majority of the options and the base price of $26,610 will easily approach -- or surpass -- the $30,000 plateau.

The Maxx's instrumentation and console functionality is efficient, but not particularly stylish. Still, what the wagon lacks in elegance is overshadowed by its appreciable, leg, head and shoulder room. It's a five-passenger vehicle with as much interior room as some vehicles marketed for more passengers.

There are better performing vehicles on the market, but considering the overall package of good performance, spaciousness and a quiet ride, the Malibu Maxx is a worthwhile choice.

2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx: The Weekly Driver

Safety features -- Driver and passenger front and side airbags; antilock brakes,

Fuel Mileage (estimates) -- 18 mpg (city), 26 mpg (highway).

Warranty -- Bumper to bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 3 years/36,000 miles miles; Corrosion, 6 years/100,000 miles.

Base price -- $24,610

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