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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  GTZ Rocks - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Wisecat74 - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Great looking car feels good, drives good, great pick up, I LOVE IT!!!

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  Super Galant, Supreme gas is a bummer - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By DMithell - November 20 - 4:43 pm

  Love the car, worry about a lemon report on TV about the brakes...my new loaded LS V6 is a little dream machine...rides and handles like a Porche, lots of power. Supreme gas requirement a total bummer...I refuse to abide by that one totally.

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  What a car. - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Whitey92 - November 19 - 10:00 am

  Ill tell ya this is my first car and it has given me no major problems. I got it around 70,000 miles, and it purrs. Only problem at 75,000 miles on cold winter night altenator belt snapped while on highway, got home safely battery was drained but only problem. Fast car has got some sack if you know what I mean. Handles amazingly.

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  Galant offers pleasing alternative - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mike Smith - November 16 - 11:16 am

  I have had my Galant for a little over a year. The car is absolutely beautiful and very fun to drive. I have put about 17500 miles on it as of this writing and the vehicle has held up great. The gas milage is good. The front seating could be a little bigger and the road noise can be a bit loud at times. Overall Id recommend this car to anyone considering a Honda Accord or a Toyota Camry but doesnt want to pay extra money for a label.

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  Worth Checking Out! - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Andrew - November 4 - 5:10 pm

  I have owned my Galant for nearly 6 months, and I still find myself staring at it. The exterior was designed for all ages. I feel proud owning a Mitsubishi considering it is built in Bloomington, Illinois by UAW workers. Ask anyone who works at Mitsubishi and they will tell you that they are proud of what they build. The engine is very responsive and the torque put out is amazing for a 4 cylinder. The 8-speaker Infiniti sound system is amazing. The interior turns many heads at night with the blue dash lights. I was also attracted to the Galant because of one of the best warranties around, 10-year- 100,000 thousand miles. Plus I get 3 years maintenance and roadside assistance.

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  Great Whip, Wide Turns - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By dcomes1st - November 2 - 6:23 pm

  I love this car and would not trade it for anything. Even though this is my first new car ever, I work in the auto industry and have seen, driven and sold many different vehicles. The 2007 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is one of the best mid-size sport sedans. I think the gas mileage could be a little better, but then again thats coming from someone who is used to driving a 4 cylinder.

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  My Saddened Galant Loyalty - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MARTIN HODES - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This 2004 is my 5th Galant. This 2004 has front and rear suspension which reduces my comfortability. Every road defect is disturbingly transmitted. On 4/16/04 I drove another 2004 Galant, the bumping and jarring were not as frequent and severe as in my auto. Same day I spoke with a MItsubishi "engineer". He confirmed, 2004 is a newly designed vehicle. Is supposed to give firm, non-swaying ride. I asked if less firm and rigid shocks could be installed. "No, this is the way the car is designed and we wont make any changes in your vehicle." I have requested a visit by a Factory Rep. Martin S. Hodes

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  Favorite Car Yet - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By jaschaeferiii - October 27 - 7:00 am

  I bought this car new, .3 miles on it. Its been a great car to drive. It handles very well (GTZ has sport suspension), and has a good amount of go when I want it. I have driven this car like I stole it from day one and it has taken most of the abuse. I have replaced the rear bearings once at about 90k, caused by cheesy caps on the inside of the rear hub rusting out. Blew up torque converter around 120k resulting in replacement boneyard trans (very, very rare issue, probably my fault). I have almost 180k on it now, getting some rust, need some bushings, O2 sensor, havent replaced timing belt ever. Still starts and accelerates like the day I bought it every time.

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  Been a great car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By jb - October 21 - 9:33 pm

  Bought it new, now has 140k miles. Live in the DC area, so I needed a car with a little "zing" to get off and on the beltway. Have only replaced the O2 sensor. Reliable, responsive, good stereo. Everything still works (amazing with 3 teens sharing. Nothing has broken, though showing wear on the outside edge of drivers seat.

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  Best car I have owned in a long time! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By dice1 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. I bought it very weel equipped including the power roof and found it to be very comfortable. All of the accessories and features are well located. Very good gas milege, important these days of $2.00 plus per gallon. Red is the best color I found. I get many comments on the looks!