[WishIhadatruck]

A 4mpg bump in the city is a big deal when the Malibu already has 2nd best city fuel economy (I think the Altima is #1). 4 mpg is quite a bit, 18% improvement. For what little the hybrid option is I think it is quite a good deal. Sure a HSD or 2-mode will do even better but you'll pay even more for that.

People don't always buy hybrids because they make financial sense. New cars at all don't make good financial sense anyway. If gas prices keep going up the extra few mpg will become even more valueable.

I don't get the Aero change either. You really can't compare the '08 Aero fuel economy to the '09 car with the turbo-4 motor and an Aero appearance package. They are NOT the same car. Not that it isn't a good idea to offer the top model with the more fuel efficient powerplant since some may prefer that combo but the comparison is not really valid. I think the days are past where people should expect to buy the most powerful motor when getting the top of the line option package. Even those with money to burn that desire luxury options are starting to desire fuel efficient powertrains. The desire for more power is slowing down finally.