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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  I like my Galant - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Julie - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I really like my 2009 Mitsubishi Galant. I have been driving it for a little over a month, and have no complaints. It had 29,000 miles on it when I bought, and now has 31,000 miles on it. I was driving a 1986 Lincoln town car, so it is a new experience. Other than feeling every little bump on the road, compared to the smooth ride of the Lincoln, it is a dream. The pick-up (acceleration) getting on the freeway is great, even before its completely warmed up. The rear window defogger works pretty fast. The defrost works good, and the air-conditioning will freeze you out of there. The stereo system is good, with a nice cd player and radio, and the handling is good. I wouldnt trade it.

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  Reliable, poor fuel economy,poor resale - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By phil9164 - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Engine is reliable but it consumes too much fuel for a 4-cylinder. Noticeable road noise and not too smooth a ride. My 94 Accord still gives me 30 miles/gal and still is a more solid ride. Dont buy this car brand new as the value goes right out the window by quite a chunk as soon as you leave the car lot( or keep it for a year and youll see how much its worth)

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  SHARP LOOKING CAR - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By FRANK LANZA - November 26 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS MY FIRST GALANT,THE 4CYL IS FAST,SHOULD HAVE MOVE THE CUP HOLDERS.

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  Drive this car. - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By EBW - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Excellent. Had the car five days and I love it. Great road feel, lots of interior room, strong 4 cylinder, very smooth automatic, tight build quality, attractive and "user friendly" controls, map lights, keyless entry, power everything, adjustable driver seat height, four wheel disk brakes. Spacious and comfortable back seats with cupholder armrests. Great sound system, "Ice Blue" dash lighting very easy on the eyes and contrasts well with orange indicators. The people at Kevin Day Mitsubishi were great, low pressure, friendly, and professional.

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  Fun Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Kevin T - November 19 - 10:00 am

  We bought the LS brand new and we are not sorry we did. Great car. Growing family wanted something sporty safe and with a little more room. I would recommend a Galant.

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  Great Sedan - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By atl842 - November 15 - 10:00 am

  I was a little bit unsure about purchasing the Galant over the usual Accord, Camry, or Altima. Today I am very pleased with the decision of the Mitsubishi. The car is quiet, fast, and comfortable and I dont feel like I just blend in with the crowd.

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  Fabulous car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By julie - November 14 - 11:46 am

  My Galant is a great car, reliable, fun to drive, good on snow on ice, great sporty look; even 8 years later I get compliments. I have the V6 and the 3.0L engine and get at least 25 mpg commuting to work in the country. I will hate to see it go when the time comes. Then V6 transitions smoothly and functions well on the highway when passing,even with the AC on. It has a great dashboard, easy to read; has room for adults to sit comfortably in the back seat. Great visibility to the right in front windshield, unlike other similar cars.

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  GTZ, a great car, but lacks the push - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Walrus2004 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  The GTZ is my third car, I am only 18 years old. It is next to an BMW on looks and interior, but lacks the kick and power of a BMW. I have a GTZ, which has no different engine than the V6 ES, just a sport suspension and other options included. I love the car, but if you are looking for something fast, youre looking in the wrong place. Awesome sound system and great for picking up a date!

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  Best Car for the Value! - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Quickster - November 3 - 11:10 pm

  Bought this car used with 108,000 miles for only $4,000. This car is fully loaded and is beautiful! Everything was in excellent condition. I now have roughly 123,000 miles and only have done two oil changes, replaced the tires and changed out the belts. This car runs so smoothly. Quick acceleration, very quiet. Stereo is great! Very comfortable. This car is a head turner! Everyone envies me of this car. It looks and feels like a luxury sedan, and looks like it would be worth tons more. I highly recommend this car!

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  Go ahead be different - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By whale - October 29 - 1:33 pm

  As said in the title of this review, dont be like your neighbors and everyone else and buy an Accord or Camry, get the Galant. You will not fall asleep looking at it. Its less expensive, more fun to drive, and better looking. Its amazing how many people look as you drive down the street. Ive had it for almost 2 months, bought new, the only problem is the front headlight gasket came loose on the right side, but it was quickly repaired under warranty.