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 FOR THE $$ - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Shoregirl22 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I love the look, the ride, the space. I got a silver one, Its yummy.

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  Every Thing You Need - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Patrick - September 30 - 5:46 am

  As you can see the Galant has a very attractive design, especially for a 4 door. It has exellent acceleration and rides smooth at high speeds. The Galant has more leg room then some trucks and SUVs that I have been in. Id rather watch t.v. in my Galant then my lazy boy. The only complaint I have is its turning radius does not meet my standards.

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  Excellent auto - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Debster - September 29 - 9:06 am

  My Galant has 72K on it, and it has been an awesome car with no major issues except a glitch with the radio that I fixed myself. Still handles well and looks great. Would highly recommend. I especially love the way it handles, and the engine is peppy enough to be a V6 even though it is only a 4-cyl. In fact, I bought this from a dealer and the sales guy was bummed because it was the car he was driving around... keep up the great cars! Looking to possibly upgrade to SUV but will certainly look at Mitsubishi - if it drives as great as this car, I will be happy!

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  Satisfied Customer - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By shotgunjimi - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought mine during the year end clearance, got a super deal. With minor hail damage. My sticker was $20900, got it for $17,300. I love the elegant look of the interior. (Camel color) The dark grey interior is ugly. Nice smooth ride, good pick up for a 4 cyl, reliable. Nothing but regular maintenance.

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  Great car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By maurice - September 21 - 12:16 am

  Bought mine in 2001 with 10000 miles. Now at 182000 and still going strong. Every couple of years It suddenly needs a new battery. I dont know why, but dont care, I have had no other issues with the car. I was going to trade it in, but my wife talked me out of it because it is such a low maintenance car. I replaced the radiator because of a small leak, do my regular services after they are due and change the oil every 5-7000 miles. The timing belt takes me about a half hour to replace and I have done it twice just as a preventative thing. It is not the prettiest car due to a couple south Florida hurricanes and I will probably repaint it soon.

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  Galant GTS Great Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Willyd - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Have driven this car less than 1000 miles, but it is evident this is a great car for my rush hour commutes. Good ride / handling compromise with a sporty feel but not too jaring ride. The body seems to be solid as a rock. You can hear the engine when you push it, but it has a great tone. Super stereo and a decent sized trunk that is easy to access. I got a light silver exterior color that shimmers and the black interior. Great looking combination. The most important feature is a decent price for the car. At a little less than the average price car you get a Galant that is fun, confortable, and loaded with great options. Good job.

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  galant - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By quiz - September 14 - 2:00 am

  bad changed engine, radiator, crank pully, exaust, tires, all around 115,000 miles. really bad experiance. Also the overdrive is busted

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  Nice - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By toy4red - September 14 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my car and have only had it for a week, but am very impressed. This is my first new car and am very excited.

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  Thee Most Awesome Car Ever - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Ma Baby Galant - September 3 - 10:00 am

  My first car. . and it has not let me down. . I love the oomph from the engine. . the brakes couldnt be better. . Ive had a few close calls. . where Im very thatnkful the brakes were as good as they are. . I havent had the car long. . but I wish when this one goes bad I could get another exactly like it. . .

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  My 2004 Galant GTS is one fine car - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Joe Supplee - August 16 - 2:03 pm

  Great car (silver finish) - love the way it looks and drives. Especially love the infinity sound system and cobalt blue dash lighting. Rear seating is a big improvement over my 99 Galant. Pickup is great with the V6. I think Mitsubishi really improved this car greaty over prior models. Glad I bought it. I hope the reliability is a good as my 99 (no problems at 102K when I sold it)