[By NBC-1TV H. J Yook]Chevrolet today launched its first global midsize car, the all-new Malibu in Korea. GM Korea will start production this month at its Bupyeong manufacturing facility and begin sales in November.

“Korea is the first country to produce and sell the all-new Malibu,” said GM Korea President and CEO Mike Arcamone. “With expressive styling, a comfortable cabin, outstanding ride and handling, and top-notch safety, it will exceed the expectations of consumers.”

The Malibu nameplate may be new to Korea, but the Malibu is the industry’s longest-running midsize passenger car nameplate, spanning 35 years. More than 8.5 million Malibus have been produced in the United States since its debut in 1964. The product name also conveys the luxury character of the vehicle by creating a connection to the well-known enclave for wealthy celebrities in California.

The all-new eighth-generation Malibu carries on the award-winning heritage of the seventh generation, which has garnered more than 40 industry awards, including 2008 North American Car of the Year. It is the only midsize passenger car to be named a Consumers Digest Automotive “Best Buy” the past three years.

GM Korea engineers made sure that the new global vehicle would meet the demands of customers in the largest and most competitive segment in the Korean market.