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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  Fun to drive but has serious problems - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Pete from NY - August 14 - 10:50 pm

  I bought this car brand new in Jan. Â’01. It was great for the first 4-5 years. Fun to drive, great pickup and sound system. Traction control works great in the snow. I did all required maintenance at the dealership. First, the horn stopped working (sensor in the steering wheel had to be replaced in Â’04). Then the hood started rusting from the inside out together with several seams in the engine compartment. The hood was replaced by Mitsubishi but I had to pay for paining and installation ($400). The struts had to be replaced at 105,000 miles together with wheel bearings and other parts of the front suspension (total cost with new tires $2,200). The car is only worth $3,500.

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  Great car for the price - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By dscarchick - August 12 - 2:50 pm

  I bought my used Galant 6 months ago and so far its been the most reliable car Ive owned. Its the first import Ive owned as well. Very comfortable to drive and I get 29 mpg with the 6 cylinder engine. Granted, it isnt a German luxury car but if your looking for an affordable used car with a good reputation, this is it. I like it so much in fact, im going to buy a 2012 model when my financial situation improves. I was bummed to hear 2012 was the last year but who knows, maybe Mitsubishi will make a new full size car with similar features. Overall, a good buy.

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  Warrior Galant - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MiamiGalant - August 9 - 11:43 am

  I purchased this car in 2007 at an auto auction as a previous rental car with a whopping 185,000! I couldnt believe this car was still running so good. I kept the car for my father and today this car has 231,756. My father probably changed the oil 2-3 during his ownership and this car still runs great, no problems whatsoever. Mitsubishi did great with these, I really underestimated them.

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  99 Galant - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By JoeSup - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Overall pretty good car except for brakes. No real problems in 85K miles

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  2004 Galant:: What a surprise! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kdelight - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The newly redesigned 2004 Galant has moved this model up a serious notch from 2003. While searching the web for a $20,000 car, the new Galant popped up and caught my eye with its new style and much improved gas milage. We intended try the Accord, Civic Hybrid, and the Galant. After seeing the Galant, we walked across the street to the Honda dealership and found both cars to be boring and tired in appearance and performance. We returned to purchase the Galant with fun packages like a moon roof, 6 CD changer, 16" wheels, etc. and still stay in our price range. Great pick-up and smooth sailing! No irritating pings or problems either.

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  My 2003 Christmas Gift - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Beachnsunlvr - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The new Galant is outta this world. I have the heated leather seats and the Infinity sound system. Makes ya feel like your at home its so comfortable. The ride is smooth and easy. Its also been great in the snow.

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  Awesome CAR!!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Marg - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This car is so fun to drive and you really have to watch the gas because it is so smooth it is easy to forget how fast you are going! I love it!

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  Chemical X - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Silver Magic - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is faster and more powerful than the 99 Galant. My only disappointment is that all models did not have the fog lights like before nor did they have the woodgrain dash I love.Only the GTS has it.I will miss the Barcelona Red which is my favorite color but overall this is an outstanding remake and its fun to drive.

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  Great Car - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By DivaahJoy - July 28 - 10:00 am

  had 600 miles on it when i bought it. has almost 200,000 now. very few problems first 4-5 years - just brakes and oil changes. recently have more major repairs - engine, a/c, water pump - but repair costs have been reasonable. would recommend Mitsubishi to anyone. will buy another car within year but this has served me well.

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  NOT BAD, NOT BAD AT ALL - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Romanizer - July 28 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for a reliable car with a small price tag....this is it. I put about 110 miles per day on this car. Great fuel economy and solid ride. One down fall is rear seat room, small kids are fine, but the big kids will complain. I hav ethe 4 cyl. and it acts like it, i will not be winning any races but it does the job just fine. all in all a good car for the money, I will even recomend it to anyone.