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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Cant Beat it for the Price - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
By Sid - December 15 - 4:10 pmCompared to the Honda Accord or Toyota Camary in performance, style, quality it it is neck to neck. I think it is just a personal preference as to which one appeals to individual. But when you talk price there is no comparison, The Mitsubishi Galant is $2k to $2.5k less than the Accord or Camary. If you trade frequently, you might consider an Accor or Camary. But if you are one to keep your vehicle awhile, then the Mitshbishi Galant is a top choice.
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Opinion after 100,000 miles - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
By Dena - December 15 - 10:00 amAlthough this car has been reliable and comfortable, I do have some serious complaints with the quality of the parts used on the car that are not related to the actual running of the car. Ive had two interior door handles break off, hubcaps are constantly falling off, and the gas cover broke off. When I first got this car a friend of mine liked my car and got one within 6 months of my purchase. She had the same three problems. This is part of the reason she already sold hers. There is also an annoying rattle when I drive over 65mph. It seems to be coming from the glove box. Ive taken it to the dealership and they cant figure out what to do to stop it.
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Best Car Ive Had - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
By Matt - December 15 - 9:10 amThe 99 Galant is the best car I have had. I bought it private party in Aug. of 2005. I drive about 50 miles everyday, and have had few problems with this car. It runs great! The fuel economy is really good. Mitsubishi knew what they were doing when they designed this car. The body style is sleek and looks good. The engine is peppy and doesnt hesitate.
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Mitsubishi Power - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
By Mitsu2002 - December 12 - 2:46 amEdmunds has helped out a lot so I decided to give back and contribute via a review. I own a 2002 Mitsubishi Galant with 121,000 miles on it. I had it since 2003. It is a very very reliable car. Any Galant 2002 and up has a very smooth steering and heavy bass sound system that comes standard, which no one really knows about. Japanese cars are the most reliable but this model has two major flaws. 1. the Galants engine coolant system is made out of plastic, so after about 100,000 miles, it may melt and start to leak. Another is that brakes have to be changed often (about once a year). Over the last 7 years, no repairs needed! Parts are not that expensive. Other than that, enjoy Mitsubishi power
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An adequate car for a very good price - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
By martymac - December 12 - 2:00 amThe 99s came with bad tires, which I hope have been replaced. This is my second Galant. My first was an 89, which I drove for 180,000. Now, that was an amazing car. If you can find a low mileage 89 -91, buy it. I doubt if this one will make that, but I am sure it will hit the century mark All in all, considering that it is at least 2,000 less than the Camry and Accord, I Would recommend it. My dealership is a service oriented one, so shop around, but if you are in the NYC northern surburbs, Yorktown Mitsubishi is worth a visit.
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Like It, but Never Loved It - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By Bergerman - November 26 - 7:10 pmThe Galant is an overall good, solid, reliable car. It was years ahead of its competition in exterior design. As soon as the others caught up, they went and made it ugly again in 04. Its resale value stinks, I mean its absolutely horrible, to the point that I cannot trade it in, so I just have to live with it, kinda like my wife. She calls it the "Grampa mobile" because it handles like the 89 DeVille I drove in college.
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I love this car! - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
By Mitsubishi PrOpHeT - November 23 - 3:13 pmIve been driving Galants ever since I first started driving and this is the best one yet! My first car was a 95 Galant, my second one was a 00, and now I currently drive the 07. All in all, I can honestly say that this is a GREAT car. PERIOD! Probably will be the only type of car I will ever drive (unless I hit the lottery or something, lol!) I get great gas mileage, handling is pretty good, it looks sharp, and rides very smooth. I couldnt be happier with this purchase. Before I purchased my car, I test drove the Dodge Avenger, the Nissan Altima, and the Chevy Impala, looking for something different, and none of these other vehicles, in my opinion, could come close to the Galant.
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UJs Galant - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
By jammikk - November 19 - 10:43 amI have been driving this car for almost a year, and I still smile when I get behind the wheel. Its oil stays clear, it has no leaks, smoke, vibration, wobble or "clunks." Im glad I didnt get a Ford Taurus.
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Awesome Vehicle - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By Amit - November 16 - 7:56 pmI have nothing but praises for this vehicle. Its built to last, has a powerful V6 engine and is a fun ride. I have had this vehicle for over 4 years now and used it for over 45K miles. The only other thing that I had to do besides the regular oil servicing was to change the brake rotors a couple of times (which is common to all vehicles, std life span being 2 yrs) .
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GREAT CAR! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By KATELYN - November 7 - 10:00 amLOVE MY NEW CAR. GREAT BUY FOR THE MONEY! GREAT HANDLING, SMOOTH RIDE! VERY HAPPY. SHOPPED AND TEST DROVE OTHER MID SIZE CARS AND THIS WAS BEST BUY FOR DOLLAR. 9.4 RATING AND WARRANTY WERE VERY IMPORTANT FOR ME. I OWNED A 929 MAZDA FOR 10 YEARS BEFORE PURCHASING THIS CAR!
