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 Love My car After Two Years - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jennifer - December 19 - 10:43 am

  I have had my Galant for two years and I still love driving it. It has torque and is comfy. I am considering getting another, but the GTS model with a leather interior instead. I recieve top notch service from the dealer as well.

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  The best car i have had in years - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mschriscub - December 14 - 2:00 am

  I love my mitsi.It is the first great car I have had since I purchased my first new car in 1974. I had always bought GM vehicles but after my last experience with my Buick that was in the shop 15 times the first year, engine and trans rebuilt at 44,000 miles, seatbelt that did not work and they told me to drive carefully in case it did not operate properly in an auto accident,etc.etc My mitsi has only had 2 minor problems and the dealership rectified them immediately.LOVE MY MITSI!!!!!!!!

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  A Great Buy - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mike Smith - December 10 - 9:06 pm

  This is my second Galant and I really like the improvements over the 2001 model. The seating is more comfortable and the car has lots of power for a 4-cylinder. The controls are well placed and convenient. The bold Mitsubishi design is a welcome change from the mediocre designs of the competition.

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  Very Impressive. - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mikey He Likes It!!! - December 7 - 12:06 am

  What can I say? For a great price, you get a great car. I am averaging about 26 mpg. The interior is very quiet. The ride is soft. It feels like an Acura drive. The car is a little sluggish though due to its heavier than average weight. It does pick up after about 18 mph. I highly reccomend this car to anyone looking for a Camry or Accord. The price is a heck of a lot better for what ya get.

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  Love My Galant! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jen - November 30 - 9:10 am

  I have had my Galant for 5 years now (bought it new from the dealer) and I am STILL getting compliments on it! I had a co-worker recently remark on the blue lights in the dash and how cool they were, and another one comment on the color and how sporty it looked. I still love the pick up with this car. Very reliable car. They only issue I have had with it so far are the brakes, but I just chalk that up to regular maintenance issues (I had to replace them after 35,000 miles). This car is great in ice, snow and heavy rains along with nice, sunny days!

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  my galant - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Rosy - November 30 - 2:00 am

  this is the best car i ever drove... it rides so smooth that some times i even forget im driving.... i love the design of it.. It was made to look sporty and drive like a luxury car.....smooth!!! i wouldnt trade it for anything...

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  Great Car! - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kungfubaby - November 29 - 3:13 pm

  What can I say - I love my Galant! The first day that I drove it, it felt like I was driving a luxury car (I was so accustomed to driving a compact car before). It is a comfortable drive and I like the fact that it has received high safety ratings. I look forward to driving my Galant for a long, long time!

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  Luxury for Less - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Pixie - November 29 - 12:40 am

  Excellent car for the price...with the optional premium leather, 8 way power seats, 210 watt Infinity 7-speaker system, you feel as though you are in a luxury car. For the $22,000 I paid for this car, it is completely loaded. My husband had a 1998 Honda Accord EX V-6 coupe and this Galant rivals it any day! The ride is quiet and smooth and it handles turns well. You cant beat the exterior design of the car either...a real head-turner!

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By zjdewitz - November 28 - 9:26 am

  Before I test drive my Galant, I had preconceived notions about the Mitsubishi brand. Id always heard that they were unreliable, underpowered, and boring. But, once I put my foot on the gas, all of that flew out the window. The 2.4L has plenty of power, and has more pickup than my previous car, a 1999 Saab 9-3 turbo, even though it has less horsepower. The Galant rides perfectly on the highway, with some wind noise that some of my other cars didnt have. But, it handles better than I could have expected. Braking, accelerating, and cruising are all top notch.

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  Very Good Car - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Vinny - November 24 - 7:50 am

  I previously had an 06 Galant GTS, but traded up because of the interior and exterior improvements. The use of the mivec V6 from the Eclipse makes the car much smoother and more responsive than the previous 230hp V6. The 5-speed automatic transmission makes slightly sharper shifts and has improved my gas mileage. Probably the most notable improvement is the interior fit in finish, nothin shakes or is lose, and the car is much quieter on the rode. I opted for the navigation system which is much better than in the Accord and Maxima. The Rockford Fosgate sound system is one of the best on the market. Lastly, the suspension provides a better feel around the corners than the previous generations did.