The Chevrolet Malibu gets a makeover inside, outside and under the hood for 2013 that helps an already pleasing car close the gap on its competitors in the affordable midsize sedan field. The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu may not overtake the likes of the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry, but it stands ready and willing to give them an even better run for their money.

Chevy staggered the rollout of the new-look Malibu, starting things off with a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, a vehicle that uses what experts are calling a mild hybrid system that combines a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder gas engine with an eAssist electric motor. The combination, paired with a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission, produces 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque.

The Eco differs from true hybrids in that it does not have the capability to run on the electric motor alone. In the case of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, the electric motor seamlessly helps with acceleration, powers accessories and handles an automatic start/stop system that conserves fuel by shutting the engine off at traffic lights. Call it a hybrid-lite.

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco slots between conventional gas engines and hybrids in fuel efficiency and in other areas as well. It gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city/37 highway and 29 mpg combined. Reviewers are not impressed by its mileage numbers, but they do like its regenerative braking system, its electric power steering and the way it rides, among other aspects of the vehicle.

Chevrolet dropped the V6 option from the Malibu lineup. The LS, LT and LTZ join the Eco as trims of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. Besides the Eco's mild hybrid powertrain, the automaker will offer two 4-cylinders, an all-new 2.5-liter engine along with a turbocharged 2.0-liter that will be good for 259 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, intended to make buyers forget the V6.

The experts for the most part approve of other changes to the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, too, including a somewhat more aggressive and stylish exterior that some call handsome. As part of the exterior redo, the 2013 Malibu Eco received plastic panels underneath and "shutters" behind the grille to improve its aerodynamics and thus fuel mileage.

The comfort and quality of the ride improves with the new Malibu, as well, in part because of Chevy’s determination to cut down on the noise level in the cabin, a goal it has managed to accomplish. The revamped interior draws praise from reviewers for its looks along with the quality of its materials and layout of gauges and controls.

The 2013 Chevy Malibu checks in at 3 inches wider and about a half-inch shorter than the 2012 version, and that results in a little more shoulder and hip room in the back seat in particular. The wheelbase, though, is a little over 4 inches shorter, and that cuts into legroom.

Heated mirrors, automatic headlights, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate controls, OnStar, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a 6-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface all come standard.

Chevy offers a sunroof as a standalone option for the 2013 Malibu, and other features come in groupings such as the Power Convenience Package (remote ignition and an 8-way power driver’s seat and rear-view camera). The Premium Audio package adds an upgraded Pioneer sound system, the Leather Package tacks on leather upholstery and heated front seats, and the Navigation Package includes all of that as well as a navigation system and memory for driver's settings.

The Malibu traditionally scores well in safety tests, and the 2013 version features 8 airbags, including a knee bag, as well as traction and stability control.