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2016 Malibu Hybrid
Posted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 7:59 am
by kevm14
http://www.motortrend.com/news/2016-che ... CA44D94E51
That 2.0T isn't that far from an STS Northstar or even 750iL.
Re: 2016 Malibu Hybrid
Posted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 9:25 am
by Bob
I am interested to rent the new Malibu someday. Unfortunately, it does not seem to have appeared in fleets yet.
Re: 2016 Malibu Hybrid
Posted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 9:29 am
by kevm14
A Fast Lane Car quick take of the new Malibu hybrid quoted the Malibu chief engineer as saying they hope to minimize fleet sales with this new one. However, I do believe in the idea of GM sprinkling some nice Malibu's around different rental agencies (perhaps giving them a deal, but not in volumes) just as PR for people who rent them.
Re: 2016 Malibu Hybrid
Posted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 1:51 pm
by Bob
GM always says they want to minimize fleet sales then they end up dumping their unsellable products in fleets

The only major OEM that successfully avoids fleet sales is Honda.
In all seriousness, I think it is a good idea to put some of your latest and greatest products in rental fleets at major airports. By doing so, you get access to high income consumers who may not otherwise drive or even consider your products. My perception of certain cars has been positively changed by on more than one occasion based on a rental experience.
Re: 2016 Malibu Hybrid
Posted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 1:55 pm
by kevm14
Right. I don't think "no fleet sales" is really the goal. More like don't rely on fleet sales to move large volumes of cars. I seem to recall, also, that when you see high trim level cars for rent, and I don't mean a specific luxury line, that's usually because the OEM upgraded it. I'm sure the economics doesn't work out at all for Enterprise to buy LTZ Malibus or whatever, but it doesn't help GM as much if they are all LS models with zero options.