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:

• 

  Galant Lover, Hot body, Sexy tail ... - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By galantlee - January 27 - 4:06 pm

  This piece of art should be placed in the museum someday. How did they make the exterior look so high class? I just love all the lights, the placements, the designs, and the options. If only the accelation was even better and more sensitive this would be the ultimate racing machine. Girls dig it, women wants it, boys are jealous and men just dont have enough gas to hunt this sexy beauty down, except for the rich folks. I wish everyone realized what a historical piece this will become and how safe, fast, smooth, reliable, fair pricing, and cool looking driving pleasure this is. Is a different feeling, being a parent and can still look young and cool. Be that parent, my friend! You will feel FREE!...

• 

  1999 Mitsubishi Galant - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By 1999 Mits Galant - January 23 - 2:56 pm

  This car has been great to drive. It runs smoothly all the time and has had no major mechanical defects. I normally drive cars into the ground, but I dont think its possible with this car. It has 115K Miles and is going strong.

• 

  Nice car to drive - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Albert Wiley - January 21 - 10:00 am

  this is a very nice car to dive. It hanldes greqt with enough power to get you out of trouble.

• 

  Rented the Galant - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By SomeCarReviewer - January 21 - 10:00 am

  I get a chance to rent different cars, this week it was this car. I like Mitsubushi, but seems like the Japanese rip-off of the Chevy Impala - minus the ugly tail lights, 50 lb doors and GM craftsmanship. Cost-cutting apparent. Good car for a spend thrift who doesnt care about looks and wants solid wheels. Probably low resale. They need to pick better materials other than the cheap/hard/sand textured plastic. Run your hand over this and then think about a three hour road trip – brutal. Need gas cap lock, unless you want your gas siphoned or bake cookies in your engine.

• 

  A Whole Lot of Car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By tennis_playa - January 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought a used 2003 Galant a month ago and I am very happy I did. Great looks, fun to drive and peppy! If you are looking for a newer car and you seek a good value, then a Galant should definitely be considered! Buying this new is not a good idea, but buying it used is a great deal!

• 

  Fun Comfortable Reliable - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By funfolks - January 13 - 10:36 am

  This is our first Mitsubishi. It was a nice car at a great price at 0% financing. So far we are really enjoying it.

• 

  Still the BEST - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By lreimer - January 10 - 4:59 pm

  Think I wrote shortly after my purchase - have now owned the car 3.5 yrs and have 40,000 on it. Speaking from experience the Ralliart is simply THE BEST - better than Mercedes or BMW - much more fun to drive. I get 18MPG City and 28MPG Hiway. Everything just "feels" right. Had an 07 Eclipse Spyder 6-spd before this - and SAME comments. Only reason I traded it was top "slit" twice in Miami Parking. A "tip" for Ralliart Owners - the engine runs FINE on "Regular" - Mitsu says "Premium RECOMMENDED" - but 3.8 V6 still perfect on Regular - one SWEET engine! One SWEET car!!! A real KEEPER - and a REAL "Sleeper" !! Only about 2500 total made during 07-09 Model run.

• 

  I must have a lemon - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Simps79 - January 7 - 6:56 am

  I bought my Galant brand new in 2004. Ive had more problems with my car than any other car Ive ever had. Within the first 6 months, my horn stopped working which is pretty dangerous if I needed it to prevent an accident. I had squeaky breaks for months and paid over $900 to fix the problem. After replacing them twice and they still squeaked I ended up having to buy ceramic brake pads and that stopped the squeaking but I had to get management involved to even fix the problem. My headlights go out often! Ive just been very disappointed with this car. Im trying to keep it until it falls apart because the value has decreased too much.

• 

  Good Family Car, but not a sports sedan. - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Adam C - January 1 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used last year because I like the styling & speed. Its a reliable car & fast as heck. However, the handling leaves much to be desired and the brakes are a constant maintenance. I understand Mitsu did a change over on the brakes mid year, I guess I got the bad half. Overall, great car for the $$$.

• 

  I Love It - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By fmason79 - December 24 - 5:10 am

  I purchased my Galant in October of 2004 with about 30,000 miles on it. I now have over 100,000 miles on it with no major issues. I replaced the temperature control switch for the heat / air conditioning. I have kept up with regular maintenance and it has paid off! The only complaint I have is the gas mileage could be better. I get about 22 or 23 mpg with mixed city and highway. Compared with a Honda this is low! All in all I enjoy my Galant though!