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:

• 

  Excellent - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By shunter - March 25 - 7:16 am

  I recently have taken a 03 Gallant ES with 85k on it for 5,000$ cash from the owner. Its a very nice car. Drives grate, very smooth and reliable: Its a Japanese car! Most people just know Honda and Toyota but in fact these brands are not much better than other Japanese brands. I recommend this car to every one who wants to have a great car for the price. Exterior design is really beautiful and fantastic. The interior has everything you need. I love my Galant!

• 

  Buy This car if you want to be safe - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By luvarabhorse - March 23 - 3:37 am

  I have had this car for nearly 70K miles. It is incredibly reliable. The only thing wrong is its comestic defects, like the finish becoming dull with age. I have had problems with the air conditioner, like many of the other reviews state and currently need a new air compressor. If you want a car that will save your life should you ever get into an accident get this one. It gets great gas mileage on the highway, but not so great mileage in town. Reliable reliable reliable though! I love my car

• 

  Reliable Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Nish - March 21 - 1:50 pm

  I have had the Galant for four years now and it has served as a reliable car. The only complaint I have is that the fuel economy has gone from about 27 mph to 21 mpg over these years.

• 

  Love To Hate It - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Luv2hateit - March 18 - 8:43 pm

  Love the car, except for a few issues. Had to do the brakes a few times, the tail lights and head lights constantly need to be replaced, car has a horrible blind spot and my sun roof stinks!!!!!! Every single time you open it the headliner pops out of the trim. And when I took it into the dealer I was told that they are aware of the problem but they dont know how to fix it!

• 

  Its finally time to sell - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Nick - February 20 - 7:53 pm

  I bought this car with 104K on it back in 01. Had it ever since. I now have 225K and it is finally time to get rid of it. The last 20K have had some problems with it, but what car wouldnt at that many miles. Paint has chipped off and some rusting around the wheel wells. Did most repairs myself. Good car for the price I paid. Drove it into the ground but it still gets 25mpg.

• 

  Pleased as punch - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By orotunds - February 20 - 12:00 am

  Having driven many different rental vehicles in the past two years, I had a good idea of what I wanted, and didnt want, in the vehicle I was buying. The 2009 Sports Galant from Mitsubishi motors is a great sedan with a moderate price. It reminds me of the Hyundai Azera but it costs several thousand dollars less. The 4 cylinder has good get up and go, and it accelerates quickly. The car handles well and the ride is very smooth. The car has a big trunk with the option of gaining more length by accessing the back seat interior. The car is the new canyon beige color and the exterior and interior is stylish. I am very satisfied with the car, and would have paid even more for it if I had to

• 

  Good Buy - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Galant Owner - February 15 - 9:03 am

  I got my LS after its original lease ended and the car had 25K miles on it. Have been driving it for over 3 years now. Not a single problem with the car. What a difference from my previous Audi A4 which was breaking down every week. Like the interior - mine has leather seats, sunroof, side airbags, CD player. Back room is really for kids and not for adults. It is fun to drive and it easily goes 90-100 mph on highways - stable and solid run. Great car for the money. Not as refined as Maxima or Accord, but youd pay much more for those.

• 

  great car!! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By miljam - February 15 - 2:00 am

  i would recommend its better than a honda, great driving like on air...

• 

  hot new mitsu - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By joep - February 8 - 10:00 am

  well to start I do not know how consumers guide does not have this mitsubishi as a best buy.It rates a 9.6 with the public and let me tell you the 6 cylinder version flies.I purchased this car for $23,000.And got 1.9%financing.If there is a more solid value for your money please show me.

• 

  Vet no more - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By vet no more - February 6 - 10:50 am

  I started with a corvette and traded 4 expedition, decided I wanted a smaller family car, it has been the best car I have ever owned, NO problems @ all I drive around 20,000 miles a year, so I lucked out w/ this car!