Chevrolet Malibu (2012) first official pictures

This is the new 2012 Chevrolet Malibu - an executive-sized four-door saloon aimed at the US. But this one could come to Europe and the UK, as a halo car for the Chevrolet brand, CAR understands.

Previous generations of the Malibu have indeed been primarily for US market consumption. However, as GM seeks to create a global Chevrolet product line out of its mixture of Korean- and America-developed models, the Malibu will now be sold globally.

The new Malibu will replace the Chevrolet Epica model in most markets. And it'll be engineered for right-hand drive, making UK sales possible.

Styling-wise, the Malibu resembles an evolution of the current car, with elements of the Epica around the headlights. At the rear, a complex tail-light cluster is inspired by the Chevrolet Camaro.

Inside we get a glimpse of the centre console in spy shots - that LCD display is the central part of Chevrolet's touchscreen MyLink infotainment system.

The Chevrolet Malibu will be unveiled online via a live Facebook event on 18 April, and at the Shanghai motor show on 19 April, 2011.

By Mark Hamilton