4 Star Reviews for Mitsubishi Galant

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.45/5 Average
757 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 161 through 170 of 757.00
  • Great car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    This is a reliable and sporty ride. Its quick and good looking. The only negative is after 3 years, the black paint became spotted with white dots and the dealer in Florida would not warrant the repainting. This is my 2nd galant purchase brand new, this one being the V6. It now has 86,000 and with the new paint job(silver) looks great. The resale however is poor.

  • Most reliable car Ive ever owned - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    Yes I was one of "those" who bought this car brand new. Of course after two Fords and a Chevy, Id wanted to give the foreign market a try. Honda and Toyota were too expensive and the Galant turned out to be a great commuter car. 146K miles later and I must say its been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. No major work outside of schedule maintenance. Changed the oil every 5K. Id rate this car just as high as any Honda or Toyota from the same year. Are there things that could be better? Yeah usually there are, but Im very pleased with the Galant.

  • Its no evo - 2012 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    This Mitsubishi isnt special or have bells and whistles yet its a comfortable ride and spacious. My model was a base, however Im sure there are better options available.

  • POOR PAINT JOB! - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    I like my Mitsubishi Galant but the paint on the roof and hood rusted out after only two years. Otherwise I love the car!

  • My first new car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    I love my mitsu. Dont see a lot of GTZs, in fact I had to purchase mine in a different state. This was the most car for the money and of course the special financing of 0.9. I have to buy a new one now as I need to give this one to my daughter, but I cant find anything to compare with all this had to offer, except another mitsu.

  • Great Value - 2010 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    Edmunds review of this vehicle is REALLY harsh. I test drove many other mid-sized sedans including the Camry, before I purchased my 2010 Galant. A 2010 Camry with close to 20k miles on it would have cost me the same as the brand new 2010 Galant I purchased, with 12 miles. I got a brand new 2010 left over Galant for just over 17k. The sticker price is close to 23k for this vehicle. You will not find a new Camry or Accord out there for anywhere close to this price. For the price the Galant is a great value. I would not pay 5k more for a Camry or Accord, I think the Galant is very close in quality after driving all of them.

  • very satisfied - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    My wife found this car for my son. It had 100k miles on it. It was the first car I bought with 100k miles. My son has been traveling back and forth from college with this car and its been a very reliable car NO PROBLEMS. We have had the car now 4 years and its hasnt cost a penny for maintenance other than normal oil changes and such.

  • Strong daily driver - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    My 1999 Mits Galant is one of the best cars I have bought so far. Strong engine and Transmission, OK suspension, roomy and classy interior, and great body style. Only improvments needed would be the suspension. It seems that Mitsubishi wanted to make this car more sporty and stiffened the shocks and struts.

  • Has Been a Pretty Good Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    Just traded my Galant in after putting 86,000 miles on it. Still drove great. However, the resale values on Mitsubishis are pretty bad so beware of buying a new one. Never had any problems with this car with the exception of squeaky brakes that the dealer never was able to fix. Pretty roomy for four people and it is comfortable and quiet for long trips. V6 200 horsepower engine is really nice. Nice looking exterior, the best of all the model years. Cant stand the look of the current Galants.

  • I Love my Sporty Galant! - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
    By -

    I got my 2002 red Mitsubishi Galant ES used for $9,999 with just under 15,000 miles on it back in 2003. I fell in love with the side profile and spoiler. This is my second car (my first was a 1990 Mazda MX-6). I would say most of these reviews are accurate. This is an excellent used car to buy. The only problem Ive encountered required a new front oxygen sensor. Otherwise its mechanically sound. Despite my inexperience with cars, I feel this car handles very well. The acceleration is pretty decent too. I cant wait to throw some moderately flashy 18" rims on it to make it really stand out. As far as the inside is concerned, yes the back seat is a little cramped, but its fine with me because Im the driver..hehe.

Mitsubishi Galant Reviews By Year:
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