Simple car question: GMC Acadia or 2008 Chevrolet Malibu?

[Jmob26]

My favorite SUV and my favorite sedan. I drive a 2002 Chevy Tracker, and even though it is low to the ground, I'm used to the SUV's driver view. I'd like the AWD, because I'm from the Chicago area. However, I really like the new Malibu. It's definitely a greener car, and my parents have bought one of each of the last two models. For those of you who have driven these two cars, what are your opinions?
This would be the first car I bought on my own. I'm actually not even about to buy one, but since I will be starting to work in less than a year, I have been looking at cars a lot more. I just have a feeling of hypocrisy if my first car were to be an SUV and I am a believer of climate change.

 

[Kat M]

I know Chicago has gotten a record amount of snow this year; however, being from an area of Michigan that received almost twice the snow Chicago has this year, you can definitely get around in a Malibu. My family has a minivan because we have three small children that we cannot fit into a small car; but it's the only vehicle we have. If you don't have kids, a band, a traveling sales job, or a handicapped relative (or live in the Rockies), you don't need an SUV. The savings in gas mileage of a car over the SUV will blow your mind. I don't know about Chicago, but e85 is cheaper in Michigan than regular fuel. I would also like to make the point that my mom has a '99 Malibu and has yet to get stuck in Michigan snow. =)

I recommend the Malibu; just make sure you're prepared to replace the brakes every year.

 

[purrfectpals5]

First of all, you do not need AWD in Chicagoland; believe me, I lived there for 37 of my 38 years and you do NOT need it. Now if you lived in upstate Wisconsin, that would be a different story!

Second, while the Acadia gives you a higher ride (so would the Chevy Equinox BTW), the Malibu would give you greater fuel economy. As for e85, it is SO not worth it; it will only save you about $80 over the entire life of the vehicle. e85 is more expensive and burns faster, and gives you lower gas mileage.

I can tell you that I have driven both and I have sold both; and if my family could fit into a Malibu, there would be one in my driveway right now. Considering that the Malibu has been compared to the BMW 325i, I would say it is well worth the money!

 

[Ted]

I would take the Malibu any day over the Acadia.

 

[Chad D]

I'm not an SUV(or CUV) person so I'd go with the Malibu out of those too. The only sedan I want from GM is the Pontiac G8. *drools* Oh and the CTS.