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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  So Far So Good - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Facts - September 27 - 10:00 am

  Bought my Galant used with 12,000 miles. I have to say, for the price I cant complain too much. Quick acceleration for a 4 cylinder. Brakes wore out pretty fast. The car gives a little electric shock from time to time as the door is touched when exiting. Passenger door sometimes doesnt unlock. Cruise Control malfunctioned, Dealership fixed it under warranty. During the daytime it is hard to determine if the AC is on, due to AC indicator light being colored neon green (someone was not thinking at all on this one).

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  Very reliable car! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By multicarowner234 - September 26 - 3:36 am

  Bought it new in 2000 and now it has 135,000 miles on it and still runs great! This car is very reliable and dependable! But it is very boring to drive. Performance is ok, I am a many V8 car owner. Acceleration is good from 0-40 after that it is slow. Feels unsafe above 80 MPH. Brake rotors suck! Vibrations in steering wheel especially above 50 mph. Lots of road noise. Very, very boring. I guess Im just used to V8s.

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  Best sedan ever manufactured! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By jdm7018 - September 24 - 4:20 am

  This being my second Galant in 3 years should be enough to prove their impact on me personally. Ill keep this short and sweet. The new designed body style keeps the same Galant that we have all grown to love! I tried an 04 Accord, and compared to my Galant, it stunk.

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  This is a great car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By SarahHenberger - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I really like this car, I think it was well worth picking this car over several others. Its a good price, for a great car!

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  My First Mitsubishi - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Myprotoge - September 16 - 7:20 am

  This is my first Mitsubishi vehicle. So far I must say, I am very pleased with my 2006 Galant. The four cylinder engine is quite peppy. The automatic transmission (my very first automatic) is very smooth. Its accelerations is crisp. The ride is awesome, it corners well, and handle bumps effortlessly.

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  Quality- ES 16" Wheels - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By colorado_speedway - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Solid ride, firm steering, excellent driver position, perfect braking and smooth exceleration that adapts to how you want to drive. I feel safe around SUVs and semis on Denvers expressways at speeds in excess of 70mph. Run around town in 3rd gear to be quick. And white with dark tint exterior looks gets some respect. One gripe: seal them door handles in the cabin (:

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  Love This Car - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Ron Eberhart - September 4 - 12:20 pm

  This is my first Mitsubishi...and I love the way it rides and handles. The 160 HP 4-cylinder engine is very peppy. I bought it instead of the "6" for better fuel economy. Im getting about 22 - 23 MPG in mostly city driving. It is very roomy inside. The back seat has a lot of leg room. It has air bags everywhere. Plus it has a 5 star front and side impact rating from the government. I like that. Try it, youll like it.

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  The new 2005 Galant LS - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Ted Moore - September 1 - 1:50 pm

  Traded in a nice 2001 Galant for this new 2005. Totally different car. Finest car Ive ever owned. You MUST drive one!

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  Awesome Car - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By AdamG - August 26 - 5:43 pm

  I purchased this car in Feb. of 2006. I also got the protection options on it. I love this machine. It handles great, with tremendous acceleration, and outstanding options. The car has tremendous room, agile handling, and the blue lights inside make this vehicle very sharp. I would recommend this car to anyone. The sound system works great even with my satellite readio hooked up to it. The only suggestion would be to have dual power seats up front and back seats that lay down. This is an excellent car to drive and own overall. Great job to the employess that came up with this awesome car. To answer the guys comment on 2/1/06 it does come with heated mirrors on the exterior.

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  My 2nd Fav. car. - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By dru - August 21 - 10:00 am

  A good car for a good price. you will love the ride comfort and fuel eco. handles very good but might need a bit of a work. other than that its a good reliable car.