[DGthe3]

The take rate on V6 midsize cars is pretty low these days and most people who buy those V6 cars do so because of other features and options rather than the engine itself. Designing for only one engine configuration lets automakers take out a good deal of weight from the car. Everything from mounting brackets to the size and shape of the engine bay can be optimized for that one particular engine. This in turn results in better fuel economy and better driving dynamics (and reduces the need for larger engines). And don't forget, many 4 bangers these days are producing power comparable to what entry level V6's got 10-15 years ago (such as the 3400 series V6's that GM put in just about everything). Lastly, if the Malibu is 4 banger only that allows the for more differentiation with the larger Impala.

That said ... I picked my Grand Am because it was about the smallest car I could get with a V6.