Malibu hybrid: Not coming to a dealer near you?

Will only be available in 11 markets

According to AutoWeek, due to limited supplies, GM's Chevy Malibu hybrid will only be available "11 key U.S. markets in the Northeast and the West Coast, with none in the Southeast, Deep South or Midwest." And, don't expect this to change until the Fall of 2008, when the 2009 model begins hitting dealerships.

In terms of hybrid cars, I'm not always a big fan of mild hybrid technology, such as will power the Malibu hybrid. However, considering how hot the Malibu is going to be, I would much rather have consumers buy the Malibu hybrid than the conventional Malibu. Unfortunately, many consumers might not have such an option.