Chevrolet introduced the Malibu nameplate in 1964.
The Malibu began as the upscale version of Chevrolet’s new Chevelle midsize car. It was offered in several body styles, including a sedan, sport coupe, convertible and station wagon, giving Chevrolet a broad competitor in the growing intermediate-car market.
For its first years, Malibu was not an entirely separate model line. It identified a higher trim and equipment level within the Chevelle family. The name later became independent as Chevrolet changed its model range and discontinued the Chevelle name.
The Malibu is sometimes mistakenly dated to the 1970s because that was when the name became more prominent as a standalone identity. Its first appearance, however, was with the 1964 Chevelle lineup. The name is associated with Malibu, California, a coastal community known for its beaches and affluent image.