Overview & Reviews
For decades, the Mitsubishi Galant assumed the role of fringe player in the family-sedan game. While representing a good value for the budget-conscious consumer, it was no match for the class leaders due to its small backseat, mostly mediocre powertrains and uninspiring interior design and execution.
Having watched other automakers successfully supersize their sedans with premium features and larger V6s under the hood, Mitsubishi knew not to fight the tide when it came time to redesign the Galant. Consequently, the latest, fifth-generation model was engineered exclusively for the North American market. Its dimensions grew considerably, as did the power of its top engines.
While the Mitsubishi Galant is certainly a bargain in SE trim, most four-cylinder-powered midsize competitors would ultimately be a better, more rewarding choice. Folks who don't necessarily follow the crowd or demand the latest glitz and glamour from their midsize sedan may be tempted, but in general, you can do better.
Current Mitsubishi Galant
The Mitsubishi Galant midsize sedan comes in two trim levels -- base ES and SE. The ES has the basics, including air-conditioning, full power features and a CD player. The SE adds alloy wheels, a sunroof, some stylized trim, a rearview camera, automatic climate control, a power driver seat, heated front seats, Bluetooth, a navigation system and an upgraded sound system. Options include leather upholstery and port-installed accessories like an iPod interface, remote ignition and for ES models, a rearview camera.
A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is the only choice and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Power output is weak, at only 160 horsepower, and trails almost all competitors. Fuel economy is merely average.
With unique styling inside and out, the Galant features one of the more distinctive cabin designs in its class, with a cascading center console and bright blue backlighting at night. It's distinctive, but it also looks a bit like a boom box and it's constructed of some low-grade plastics. The front seats are agreeable and roomy, while rear-seat comfort is adequate but not up to class leaders in terms of support. Unfortunately, the seatback doesn't fold down, but there is a ski/cargo pass-through to increase utility.
Though underpowered, we've found the Mitsubishi Galant to be one of the more fun-to-drive family sedans. When cornering, the Galant remains flat and predictable and feels smaller than it is. The ride is smooth and composed, yet a surprising amount of feedback from the road is transmitted through the steering wheel. In terms of overall refinement and feature content, however, the Galant has been surpassed by newer competing models.
Used Mitsubishi Galant Models
The most recent generation of the Mitsubishi Galant debuted for the 2004 model year. The trim levels initially offered were the four-cylinder DE and ES, alongside the V6-powered LS and GTS. That V6 was a 3.8-liter mill that produced 230 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. While initially competitive, this output was quickly eclipsed by most competitors and its fuel economy was comparatively poor. Its standard four-speed automatic was always behind the times until it was replaced by a five-speed for '07. A four-cylinder SE model, featuring leather upholstery and automatic climate control, was added for '06.
For '07, the LS was dropped and the high-performance Ralliart debuted, which featured a higher-output 3.8-liter V6 with 258 horses and 258 lb-ft of torque. The next year, the GTS model disappeared, leaving just the DE, ES and Ralliart. For 2009 a new grille and taillights debuted, while trim levels were shuffled -- the base DE trim was dropped and the Sport Edition (SE) and Sport V6 appeared.
For 2010, the Galant lineup was pared down to only two trim levels -- the ES and SE. The V6 engine was also cut, leaving only the weak four-cylinder under the hood. Not all was lost, though, as premium audio, navigation and a rearview camera were added to the SE.
Safety features such as antilock disc brakes, traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags were variously (depending on year and trim level) have been available on the Galant. Stability control was not offered until 2010.
If you're looking for a used current-generation Galant, you should be able to score a good deal on one, as resale value is not a strong point. As such, a well-maintained specimen qualifies as a genuine used-car bargain though reliability may be a notch or two below Japan's best.
The previous-generation Mitsubishi Galant was available from 1999-2003. It was the first Galant to come with a V6 engine, and its exterior styling drew favorable comparisons to BMW sedans. In 2002, its design was again freshened inside and out, with trim and content changes like Infinity sound systems, a sunroof and 16-inch wheels sprucing things up through the following year. For shoppers on a budget who can overlook the small backseat, average powertrains and uninspiring materials and refinement, a Galant of this vintage can offer true low-cost value as an entry-level ride or possibly a second car.
The only other Galant one will likely encounter with any frequency will be the generation offered in the U.S. from 1994-'98. It soldiered on through those years, juggling content and trim levels, but was destined to remain a second-tier value player due to its relatively compact dimensions, cramped interior, four-cylinder power and lack of overall refinement. Don't expect great things from this generation, but if you manage to find one, it's likely to be bargain-priced.
User Reviews:
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Finally Got a Good One - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By Tracy - April 18 - 4:00 pmAlthough Ive only had it a month.... I love it! It is my dream car! Its very classy and sophisticated yet still sporty and stylish for young peoples tastes. Im still figuring the fuel economy, but so far, its better than my past 2 Chryslers and my Ford. Im a bit curious as to the transmission.. it doesnt shift as smoothly or as quickly as when I first drove it. Handling is very fun (on dry roads anyways, shouldve gotten traction control). AC is awesome, sun/moonroof is awesome, stereo sounds great except for a rattling speaker, overall I love it!
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Short Honeymoon - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By Joseph - March 4 - 10:00 amAside from price, I looked at getting good gas mileage in the city. Todate, that milage is about 35% less than what was qouted. The service manager told me the car needed to be broken in before I would see better gas mileage numbers, however, he also said that my city driving would only yield about 18 MPG instead of the 23 MPG as adversited; with the explaination, that the 23 MPG qouted was an estimate. So far Im getting a little less that 15 MPG, in my opinion, a far cry from the qouted numbers.
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ES V6 Good Car for the Buck - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
By jerroranda - March 3 - 9:03 amGood Financing considering other Japanese Cars.
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Galant Lover, Hot body, Sexy tail ... - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By galantlee - January 27 - 4:06 pmThis piece of art should be placed in the museum someday. How did they make the exterior look so high class? I just love all the lights, the placements, the designs, and the options. If only the accelation was even better and more sensitive this would be the ultimate racing machine. Girls dig it, women wants it, boys are jealous and men just dont have enough gas to hunt this sexy beauty down, except for the rich folks. I wish everyone realized what a historical piece this will become and how safe, fast, smooth, reliable, fair pricing, and cool looking driving pleasure this is. Is a different feeling, being a parent and can still look young and cool. Be that parent, my friend! You will feel FREE!...
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A Whole Lot of Car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By tennis_playa - January 21 - 10:00 amI bought a used 2003 Galant a month ago and I am very happy I did. Great looks, fun to drive and peppy! If you are looking for a newer car and you seek a good value, then a Galant should definitely be considered! Buying this new is not a good idea, but buying it used is a great deal!
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Good Family Car, but not a sports sedan. - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By Adam C - January 1 - 10:00 amI bought this car used last year because I like the styling & speed. Its a reliable car & fast as heck. However, the handling leaves much to be desired and the brakes are a constant maintenance. I understand Mitsu did a change over on the brakes mid year, I guess I got the bad half. Overall, great car for the $$$.
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I Love It - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By fmason79 - December 24 - 5:10 amI purchased my Galant in October of 2004 with about 30,000 miles on it. I now have over 100,000 miles on it with no major issues. I replaced the temperature control switch for the heat / air conditioning. I have kept up with regular maintenance and it has paid off! The only complaint I have is the gas mileage could be better. I get about 22 or 23 mpg with mixed city and highway. Compared with a Honda this is low! All in all I enjoy my Galant though!
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What a car. - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
By Whitey92 - November 19 - 10:00 amIll tell ya this is my first car and it has given me no major problems. I got it around 70,000 miles, and it purrs. Only problem at 75,000 miles on cold winter night altenator belt snapped while on highway, got home safely battery was drained but only problem. Fast car has got some sack if you know what I mean. Handles amazingly.
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Galant offers pleasing alternative - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By Mike Smith - November 16 - 11:16 amI have had my Galant for a little over a year. The car is absolutely beautiful and very fun to drive. I have put about 17500 miles on it as of this writing and the vehicle has held up great. The gas milage is good. The front seating could be a little bigger and the road noise can be a bit loud at times. Overall Id recommend this car to anyone considering a Honda Accord or a Toyota Camry but doesnt want to pay extra money for a label.
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My Saddened Galant Loyalty - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By MARTIN HODES - October 27 - 10:00 amThis 2004 is my 5th Galant. This 2004 has front and rear suspension which reduces my comfortability. Every road defect is disturbingly transmitted. On 4/16/04 I drove another 2004 Galant, the bumping and jarring were not as frequent and severe as in my auto. Same day I spoke with a MItsubishi "engineer". He confirmed, 2004 is a newly designed vehicle. Is supposed to give firm, non-swaying ride. I asked if less firm and rigid shocks could be installed. "No, this is the way the car is designed and we wont make any changes in your vehicle." I have requested a visit by a Factory Rep. Martin S. Hodes
