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:
Showing 351 through 360 of 757.00-
Fine by me - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By HappyBum - May 1 - 6:53 amI bought my 03 new in February 04. I can say it has been a good car. I have 83K on it now. I had to replace the battery (last week) the 02 sensor, and just replaced the brakes at 81000 miles. Aside from that it has been fine. I drive it mostly on the highway and get an average of 27 mpg. For the money spent I have no complaints. I like the soft ride and the car handles fine. I have the 2.4 4 cyl, 6 would be better. However, it has get up and go enough for the commute to work everyday. Looks good, runs fine.
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Best Car Ive Owned - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By Valentine - April 28 - 10:00 amWe first drove the 2004 Galant as a rental car in Colorado. We were very impressed on how the 2004 Galant handled while driving in Rocky Mountain National Park. The car hugged the curves going up and coming down the mountain, very impressive. When it came time to purchase a new car the 2004 Galant was very affordable for our family budget. The V6 has power. The inside is very roomy compared to other cars in its class. The ride is quiet and smooth. This car is great!!
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Best buy in class - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
By Best Buy - April 23 - 3:40 amI looked at the Camry because of styling, but after driving it I could feel the car felt more like a GM than a Toyota. I then looked at the new Accord and was overall impressed with the car, except for the comfort of the vehicle and ease of access to the controls. I even looked at Nissan which I said Id never do again. The plastic interior still needs major improvement. Finally I figured I would look at the Mitsubishi Galant. The sport edition pulled me right in and for a 4 cylinder it has PLENTY pep. The handling is great and the car is extremely comfortable. Even the interior is top notch. I love my Galant. Toyota just lost another loyal customer and Mitsubishi gained a new one!
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Exceptional Car - Exceptional Value!!!!! - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
By Nate7771 - April 21 - 2:00 amConsidered the Camary and Accord..the Camary was as exciting to drive as a toaster and the Accord is becoming too common. This car beats the competition in performance, comfort, style and has a decidedly aggressive attitude the competition lacks! Its extremely responsive engine is backed up by an intuitive transmission that makes the driving experience both rewarding and involving! Ive heard some complaints about interior materials or "Robbie The Robot" dashboard - I disagree! The materials are of high quality and the dash / ergonomics couldnt be better! Then theres the Infinity 8 speaker stereo system....in a word, WOW!!! I love this car and very glad to have purchased Mitsubishi!
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Wonderfull car, especially for the price - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
By tjlarso3 - April 19 - 2:00 amI bought my Galant GTZ based on a review that Car and Driver had that year. I started looking at the base class and quickly moved up to the GTZ. It was a great value for what you get, leather, premium sound, back lit panel, etc. Since Ive bought the car, its been terrific. I have close to 53,000 miles on it and have not had a major issue. Its been very reliable, a blast to drive, and it just plain looks great. In fact, I was so impressed, when I needed an SUV two years later, I bought a Mitsubishi Montero. Great car, I would highly recommend it to anyone.
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Piece of junk!!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By honeybee27332 - April 18 - 6:56 amI purchased my 2004 galant used in 2007. It was a fantastic car until 2010. We have changed both converters 3 times & o2 sensors once. Also hsve had to have a new starter & a new altenater put on. Not to mention the AC doesnt work anymore either. Going to fix it & get rid of it. Will NEVER own a Mitsubishi again!!!!
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Great Car - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
By nmeskullrider - April 14 - 10:00 ammy galant is lowered, black and 18s. Its great drives really smooth and has a great look.(Beamerlook)Everybody asks me if i bouught a bmw.I love the way this car drives, looks, and is comfortable.
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Excellent 4 Door Sport Sedan - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
By JDeauseault - April 4 - 10:46 amMy driving experience has been excellent: good road feel, firm, not stiff or jarring ride. I would and will buy Mitsubishi vehicles from now on due to this being my 4th purchased from the manufacturer. All have had the same qualities: excellent fit and finish, above average powertrains with power and efficiency, outstanding, unique styling (many compliments from friends and strangers alike).
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Not Bad! - 2010 Mitsubishi Galant
By Chet Baker - April 2 - 9:53 amI do agree with Edmunds regarding comparison with other vehicles in the 24K range, but lets put things into perspective... Mitsubishi is letting these cars go for about the same price that you would pay for a well equipped Civic! I was able to purchase the SE model for 18K. For the money, I know that a reliable, fun to drive, and not bad looking car was purchased. The warranty cant be beat. I do wish that the gas mileage was a little better, but its not terrible.
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great car - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
By s - March 26 - 2:30 amSmooth ride, slick styling, very comfortable seating for 4 adults, strong 4-cylinder engine, extremely fun vehicle, and highly recommended.
