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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  Great car - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Bob Mc - June 11 - 3:16 am

  Still cant believe the good fortune of getting this car (sept 03) for such a great price. Just drove SE Pennsylvania to Atlanta and back and got 32/33 MPG. Car has been flawless. Deal was so good, I wish Id bought two.

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  Hate the gas mileage - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Kay - June 9 - 2:56 pm

  I bought this from a rental company. The car has basically been problem free except for the heater/air conditioner. A co-worker who owns a 2002 model is having the same problem. I was also disappointed with the gas mileage. Otherwise, the car has treated me well!

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  Very nice - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mr. TBag - June 7 - 10:00 am

  Very sharp exterior and design. Great Power and handling. Very good price for what you get. This model is awesome since sunroof, upgraded audio system, V6 are all standard. Like most have mentioned, all negatives are just nitpicking. Interior is simple and lacks hooks for clothes, handles, pockets for storage, that type of stuff. Minor details.

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  Great Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Chip Stewart - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This car has done everything Ive asked it to do and more. I truly believe I could not have bought a better car for what I paid ($20,000). Its fast, has incredible handling, and the brakes are unbelievably strong. I conciously brake slowly, because cars behind me rarely can brake as quickly. With 9,900 miles on it, the only problems Ive had were a bad key fob and an air bag that needed replacement. Neither affected the reliability of the car, and were both replaced under warranty. This is my third Mitsubishi product, and I highly recommend their products.

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  Rating the 2004 Galant, 4cyl.ES Sedan - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By GW Altenburg - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I felt an immediate adrenaline rush during my first acceleration. The engine actually growled that deep throaty roar of a racing machine, my head snapped back, and my body was pressed into the seat. All this with just a 4 cylinder.2.4 liter engine. The steering was a bit stiff, but very responsive to the slightest adjustment. The ride was not cushy and was even jarring at times on roads that were not perfectly smooth. This might be objectionable to those looking only for creature comforts, but for the person looking for the exhilerating driving experience, this is one mean machine.

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  Thanks to Wallingford Mitsubishi - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By tim kyle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Great wonderful car. that is very reliable and has great gas mileage. Great for anyone looking for space, comfort and good gas mileage for a 4 cyclider.

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  Check out the GTS--its worth your time - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Hovey - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I have only one beef with my new GTS-- the gas mileage isnt great. Id still recommend this car to anyone looking for a sporty 4-door with some get-up-n- go!

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  Sharp and fun - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mose - May 23 - 10:00 am

  We looked at all other manufactures vehicles at this price range and were much more impressed with the Galant than the others. The Toyota was a close 2nd but they would not come off the price at all. We purchased the Diamond package and the sunroof package. The Diamond package gives a completly new look making the interior absolutely beautiful. A great sound system and stylish wheels. Head room and leg room is great for a sedan and fits our 2 child seats with no problem.

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  RELIABLE - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mitsu - May 14 - 10:00 am

  The best thing about this car is its reliability. Overall I have been happy with since Ive had it almost seven years and I feel as though its been good to me. This is a pretty simple car that gets the job done and doesnt give you any problems, which is all I was looking for.

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  2000 Mitsubishi Galant ES Cheap Parts - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Galant ES - May 5 - 4:56 pm

  This car only has 73,000 miles on it and it runs great but, the parts are way too cheap and the value goes down like a rock in water. I see one of these cars in every corner. They are very common. Exterior parts arent glued too well. The interior parts are arent either. Not lots of room in the back. Ive seen lots of these cars with the exterior paint fading. To be honest I do not think this car is one of the safest out there. Besides all that, the transmission is great Ive had no mechanical problems with it. Just the brakes. Ive painted it once already. This is like a Honda except it has cheap plastic parts.