The new sedan will be powered by a gas-electric powertrain and will be rated at 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, GM says. The hybrid powertrain will boost economy by 2 mpg over the non-hybrid four-cylinder Malibu, which made its debut at January's Detroit auto show.

The powertrain will combine a 36-volt electric motor with GM's 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder and a four-speed transmission. It will have start/stop functionality, and regenerative braking.

The hybrid option will be available on the base Malibu LS. That vehicle will also be outfitted with electric power steering, automatic climate control, and stability control.

Cosmetic changes to the Hybrid edition will be minimal. Unique badges get backed up by 16-inch, low-rolling-resistance tires and a new gauge cluster with operational information.

Chevrolet hasn't talked about pricing, but the emphasis is on making the Malibu Hybrid an "affordable" option. Sales will begin after GM begins production in October. GM will apply an eight-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty to the car's five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

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