Chevrolet Malibu 2012 design sketches leaked

More of an intentional leak, design sketches for the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu were filed with the U.S. patent office, after which they automatically became public property.

All over the internet by now, some even went ahead and modified the sketches to give an idea of what the finished product will look like.

Reports suggest that General Motors is killing the current platform, and moving the 2012 Malibu to the Opel Insignia platform to reduce costs. The consequences of this is obvious in the images. The American Malibu has a much longer wheelbase than the European Opel, and in their attempt to retain the Malibu’s length, the final design looks odd with its long overhangs, both front and rear. This is one case where the new product actually looks like it’s a step backwards, even if details such as the Camaro-inspired tail-lights are attractive.

Pick up the current model while you can. Full details and prices are available in the Chevrolet Malibu buyer guide.