With GM’s management trying to get over some of the issues around older versions of the Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet is planning a redesign for the 2013 model year that they hope will wow customers and improve the reputation of this mid-size car. Reviewers looking at the data on the upcoming 2013 Malibu model reveal that sizing changes will be a bit confusing for this car: although the model is slated to lose 4.5 inches on wheelbase, overall space should increase with a frame about 2.5 inches wider. Overall, the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is said to gain a sportier look, to help it compete with other new stylish choices like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, as well as the new Ford Fusion that’s been getting a lot of attention from fans of domestic auto makers.

Chevrolet designers call the styles changes a “logical progression” and talk about getting back to some 70’s era styling, though the corresponding 70’s era sizing is definitely not in the cards. In the end, buyers won’t get the new muscle of the Dodge Charger or other high powered rides, but according to GM engineers, some of the era’s “sculpting and muscularity” will be visible in the new Malibu model. Reviewers for the Detroit Bureau cite a “coke-bottle style shape” reminiscent of the hot-rodding Chevy Camaro of years past.

Preliminary data from MotorTrend shows pricing for this car starting at around $23,000. The 2013 Malibu will have a 2.4 L four-cylinder engine, with a hybrid model likely to be included. A six speed automatic transmission will complement this block. Auto analysts have noted that the choice to move away from V6 models is another part of what will help Chevrolet compete, since Ford is utilizing the same strategy as customers flock to more fuel-efficient cars. In rough estimates of future EPA numbers, the 2013 Malibu slated to get nearly 40 miles gallon on highway, (38 mpg to be precise) with about 26 miles per gallon in city driving. It’s slated to go on sale late in 2012, so buyers will have to wait a while to see this new offering in the flesh. Meanwhile, the 2012 model starts at around $22,000 and offers 33 miles per gallon. Chevrolet loyalists or buyers just casting around for new options will want to keep an eye on all of what’s in store for this emerging best-seller as next year’s lineup changes over.