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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  This car sucks - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Pali - August 4 - 10:00 am

  Dents VERY easy. Cheap parts.

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  2006 Mitsubishi Galant Review - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Bradley Aguirre - July 31 - 2:36 am

  The vehicle is very reliable. Its handling is excellent. It has lots of room and a great design.

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  dependable - 2010 Mitsubishi Galant
  By txdriver4 - July 30 - 10:41 pm

  My parents have fords and dodges and i drove those for quite some time then i recently got the galant. i have t say it is a very nice car and worth your money, and it seemed to perform much better than my parents cars.

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  STINKY CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Y - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The thing smells like rotten eggs. No matter what time of year, what the weather is like, it stinks. Ive taken it to the dealer 4 or 5 times, and they keep telling me to "change gas stations." Fuel economy is not the best 22mpg for 4 banger, my caddy get 26 and its an 8 cyln. Will never buy a Mitsubishi again.

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  Competant family car - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Huey - July 25 - 5:40 am

  I love this car. It has an aftermarket "INJEN" air intake, its very peppy for a four cylinder. The gas mileage is amazing. I love the styling its very sporty. The alloy rims that come from Mitsubishi are very elegant looking. The car comes loaded with standard features. The transmission delivers strong and at high speeds the car handles well. Its built as good as a Toyota or Honda. The rear seating is a bit tight for adults. The car has had no real problems other than normal maintance.

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  MY GALANT IS LOOKIN GOOD !!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By "CARIBBEAN AL" - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is a WINNER !!! Exceptional value, comfort & style - Allot of BANG FOR THE BUCK !!! The best part of MY GALANT was the FANTASTIC experience I had buying from Bill Seidel Mitsubishi in Davie, FL. From the moment I walked in the showroom, from the salesman to the manager, I was treated with patience & respect. The DEAL took "FOUR DAYS" & I never felt preasure or uncomfortable.The CLASS ACT !!! Something that was hard to find elsewhere.

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  Decent Car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MJ - July 4 - 4:46 pm

  Ive been driving the Galant for about 4 years now. No major repairs, so I cant complain.

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  GREAT CAR! - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jason in Laurel - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! I bought the ES 4 cyl model with the leather, moonroof, and spoiler. Not only does it look great, but it is a great car! The only problem Ive had is the timing belt. That was my fault. Its not a cheap fix, but its the only problem on the car with 151,000 miles!

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  mits galant 2000 - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kshwetz - June 26 - 10:00 am

  the only vbad thing about this car is the value drops fast.

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  2004 Galant GTS - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Daryl - June 22 - 8:50 pm

  This is my second purchase of the top end Galant that is offered from Mitsubishi. I love the control and power with out sacraficing comfort and luxury. I love the car.