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:
Showing 111 through 120 of 757.00-
Great sporty sedan with lots of pep. - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By dcjimenez - May 6 - 6:46 pmWonderful lower priced sporty sedan that looks great and is faster than most vehicles in its class (3.0 190 HP V6).
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I Love Mitsubishi! - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
By DrivinFool - May 2 - 11:13 amWhen I first got this car in 2006, I was really worried because it had over 106k. I bought the extended warranty and that eventually expired. The only thing Ive had to replace on the car in 3.5 yrs was a windshield ($130), a new battery ($50), new tires ($250), the engine belt was squealing but I didnt replace it until it broke as I was on the highway and caused overheating and needed a new radiator, old one cracked (my bad). Oh, and brake pads. THATS IT! Love my car and intend on buying another Galant when the time comes.
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my 2003 galant es - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By rysco - May 2 - 10:00 amThe car has decent pickup for being a 4 cyl. Very comfortable sets w/8way adj drivers seat. Very good on NOT using all your gas on short or long trips! The car handles very well not sluggish at all. The cd/player and speakers have great sound. I love the look and usefullnes of the fogg lights. It is a great car!!!!!!!!!!
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Fine by me - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By HappyBum - May 1 - 6:53 amI bought my 03 new in February 04. I can say it has been a good car. I have 83K on it now. I had to replace the battery (last week) the 02 sensor, and just replaced the brakes at 81000 miles. Aside from that it has been fine. I drive it mostly on the highway and get an average of 27 mpg. For the money spent I have no complaints. I like the soft ride and the car handles fine. I have the 2.4 4 cyl, 6 would be better. However, it has get up and go enough for the commute to work everyday. Looks good, runs fine.
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Piece of junk!!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By honeybee27332 - April 18 - 6:56 amI purchased my 2004 galant used in 2007. It was a fantastic car until 2010. We have changed both converters 3 times & o2 sensors once. Also hsve had to have a new starter & a new altenater put on. Not to mention the AC doesnt work anymore either. Going to fix it & get rid of it. Will NEVER own a Mitsubishi again!!!!
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Excellent 4 Door Sport Sedan - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
By JDeauseault - April 4 - 10:46 amMy driving experience has been excellent: good road feel, firm, not stiff or jarring ride. I would and will buy Mitsubishi vehicles from now on due to this being my 4th purchased from the manufacturer. All have had the same qualities: excellent fit and finish, above average powertrains with power and efficiency, outstanding, unique styling (many compliments from friends and strangers alike).
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Not Bad! - 2010 Mitsubishi Galant
By Chet Baker - April 2 - 9:53 amI do agree with Edmunds regarding comparison with other vehicles in the 24K range, but lets put things into perspective... Mitsubishi is letting these cars go for about the same price that you would pay for a well equipped Civic! I was able to purchase the SE model for 18K. For the money, I know that a reliable, fun to drive, and not bad looking car was purchased. The warranty cant be beat. I do wish that the gas mileage was a little better, but its not terrible.
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Buy This car if you want to be safe - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By luvarabhorse - March 23 - 3:37 amI have had this car for nearly 70K miles. It is incredibly reliable. The only thing wrong is its comestic defects, like the finish becoming dull with age. I have had problems with the air conditioner, like many of the other reviews state and currently need a new air compressor. If you want a car that will save your life should you ever get into an accident get this one. It gets great gas mileage on the highway, but not so great mileage in town. Reliable reliable reliable though! I love my car
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Good Buy - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
By Galant Owner - February 15 - 9:03 amI got my LS after its original lease ended and the car had 25K miles on it. Have been driving it for over 3 years now. Not a single problem with the car. What a difference from my previous Audi A4 which was breaking down every week. Like the interior - mine has leather seats, sunroof, side airbags, CD player. Back room is really for kids and not for adults. It is fun to drive and it easily goes 90-100 mph on highways - stable and solid run. Great car for the money. Not as refined as Maxima or Accord, but youd pay much more for those.
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Vet no more - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
By vet no more - February 6 - 10:50 amI started with a corvette and traded 4 expedition, decided I wanted a smaller family car, it has been the best car I have ever owned, NO problems @ all I drive around 20,000 miles a year, so I lucked out w/ this car!
