Want a Chevy with a Swedish flavor? How about a Saab chassis? Do I hear “About time?”

The 2003 and earlier Malibus did not create a tremendous amount of excitement among auto reviewers. They were considered to be the quintessential fleet rental car — a “get you there” car with all the basic essential comforts and little personality.

The new Malibu has acquired a dash of European flavor to spice up its serviceable American motor.

The new Malibu sedan and hatchback Malibu Maxx represent a complete redesign of the model with a new modern European approach, using the current Saab 9-3 and Opel (GM European/German brand) chassis. This is a much stiffer and better handling chassis than its predecessor.

The model tested was the Malibu Maxx hatchback. It is a larger car bearing no resemblance to the old Malibu. It is powered by a 3.5-liter, 200 hp, 12-valve, ohv engine. Nothing new here, but it is in the GM tradition of using old, cheap to build, overhead valve engines for its vehicles. These engines are not as refined as their dual overhead cam Japanese competitors, but have plenty of low rpm torque and excellent fuel consumption. The four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is smooth and responsive.

The suspension, handling and steering in the Maxx is much better than the old Malibu, probably helped by the Saab body structure, though it is still a little crude over bumps. The steering is electrical rather than hydraulic, although one can’t tell any difference. Drivers will notice some “torque steer” under initial hard acceleration, however.

Behavior on the road is still not up to the competition’s standards, but is much better than the 2003 and earlier models — GM is headed in the right direction with this vehicle.

The cloth interior is inviting, but might be hard to keep clean. The instrument panel is richer than the usual GM panel, but is not quite up to the European or Japanese standard.

This is a useful hatchback with a large rear opening, flat-folding rear seats and a folding front passenger seat. The seating is particularly comfortable, with an excellent driver’s seat.

An interesting device standard on the $24,100 LT Maxx and a $150 option on the $21,600 LS Maxx is the remote start system. The doors must be locked before the start button is pushed. In cold weather, the heater automatically comes on and heats the interior, in hot weather the air conditioning starts. Unlock the car, enter, insert and turn the ignition key and you’re ready to go. Spooky!

The LS Maxx standard equipment includes four-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes, cargo net, floor mats, keyless remote entry, dual power mirrors, power adjustable pedals, dual front and rear head airbags, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, traction control and aluminum wheels. The LT Maxx has all of the above with power driver’s seat, leather heated seats and remote starter system.

Options on the LS include a preferred equipment group with the remote starter system, power driver’s seat and rear seat audio controls for $925. A sunroof will add $725, the OnStar communication system for directions and emergencies adds $695, an entertainment system with rear seat DVD/CD player, monitor and two wireless headphones another $995, upgraded stereo with in-dash six CD player, $300 and an XM satellite radio, $325 (you also need to sign up for a monthly membership fee).

Options on the LT Maxx include a preferred equipment group with garage door openers, automatic day/night rear view mirror and a power sunroof for $905, the OnStar communication system, upgraded radio, XM radio as for the LS.

The EPA fuel consumption estimates are 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway. This is a particularly economical engine on the highway.

The warranty is a little stingy at 36,000 miles or 30 months, and a good recommendation would be to buy an extension, as Consumer Reports says the previous Malibu’s long-term reliability does not compare well with its Japanese competition.

This is an attractive hatchback and indicates GM is serious about taking on the Japanese in this market segment. If you are in the market, visit Mossy Chevrolet of Encinitas, who provided the test car for this column, and drive one. Then compare it to all the others and see what you think. A $1,000 incentive or equivalent low-interest financing are available through June 1.

Motoring since 1952, Austin Lynas has owned 55 cars and at one time raced mini-sedans in England. An aerospace engineer, he was instrumental in developing the anti-skid systems used in British military aircraft that preceded today’s ABS systems. Lynas can be reached by e-mail at austin@sandiegometro.com.