The Chevrolet Malibu was a series of mid-size cars that debuted for the 1964 model year. The Malibu name was a designated upgrade from the base  Chevrolet Chevelle, eventually becoming its own model in 1978. Production of the Malibu ended in 1983, yet the name was revived in 1997, and continues to be manufactured. Chevrolet has offered nine generations of Malibu: 1st Gen (1964-1967), 2nd Gen (1968-1972), 3rd Gen (1973-1977), 4th Gen (1978-2005), 5th Gen (1997-2005), 6th Gen (2004-2008), 7th Gen (2008-2013), 8th Gen (2013-2016), and 9th Gen (2016-2021).