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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  Going to run this into the ground - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Kelcie - November 4 - 2:21 am

  I bought my Mitsubishi Galant in 2013 with 70,000 miles on it. I just passed the 150,000 mile mark and wanted to just praise my Galant for making it this far. I have made one cross-country road trip in this baby, a trip to Death Valley and countless day trips. Ive had a lot of mediocre cars and this used car has by far, given me the most bang for my buck. Since getting the car, I have had to replace my battery/starter, and my AC died on my cross country trip (replaced for $600 in the heat of August somewhere in Texas...eeks). I replaced the radiator on it, and replaced the brakes. I know this SOUNDS like a lot, but I consider this car to be the perfect vehicle for me. Prior to my move, I was driving around 80 miles a day on it. After the move, Im still putting about 40 miles a day on my commute, and it just keeps hanging in there. This car has also weathered two bullet holes in my back panel from a random drive by in LA. Ive never had any engine or transmission problems, which I consider to be the real risks of a used car. I plan on running this car into the ground, and believe with regular maintenance I can get to 200K easily, and 250K if I am really really nice to it. :)

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  1999 Mitsubishi - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mrsmoore - October 29 - 11:00 am

  I have had my 1999 Mitsubishi Galant for a year now and I love it. I bought it at 150k miles, it is now at 170k. The only major problem Ive had with it was the transmission, which went out do to my user error, it burns a bit of oil and the turn radius is not the best. Its the V6 model, very peppy and accelerates very quickly even with the new tranny I put in it. I put premium grade fuel in it, high mileage engine oil and I have not had a problem with its reliability. The A/C, heater, power locks and windows STILL work, even in he cold. This car is like a roach car, Im pretty sure it wont die. I met someone who has his at 330K miles and counting, another guy and he hasnt had a complaint.

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  My Galant - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kevzahchicago - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Summing it up....gorgeous to look at, stylish interior, good value for the bucks, do not like the 4 cylinder but other than that I love this car!

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  Great Value for the Money - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By GE04 - October 15 - 5:50 am

  I have owned my Mitsubishi Galant for about twenty months now. It is a great car, yery fast with excellent handling. However, I am not as happy with the ride at highway speeds. The car tends to jump around with the road surface. It does not feel well planted. Other than that everything else is wonderful. I especially like the 280 watt Infinity sound system. The car is also a head turner with its agressive looks. Other people, especially those driving the Pontiac Grand Prix, always want to race. Its hard to beat 0 to 60 in 6.5 sec.

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  I love my 1999 Galant DE Grace! - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By valeries3 - October 14 - 6:45 pm

  I bought my car on June 25, 1999 with 25 miles on the odometer and I named her Grace. Im in tears because I finally traded Grace in on April 12, 2014 -- she had 419,574 miles on her with the original engine. The transmission went up on her at 402,359 miles in May 2013 and I actually had a transmission put in because I couldnt give up on her. She never gave me any problems even with the high miles. How did I get so many miles on her? I made sure the oil was changed religiously and did all flushes (dont laugh) that Jiffy Lube suggested. I also followed the guidelines from Mitsubishi for the tune-ups for the first 5 years. Grace is now in Frederick, MD at Renn Kirby Mitsubishi.

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  I Love My Mitsubishi - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By SueBee - October 12 - 9:53 pm

  I have had my Mitsubishi since 2003, and LOVE it. I have only had a couple of minor things go wrong, and they were covered by the warranty. It has over 80,000 miles and still purrs like a kitten. I have no regrets about buying this car, and plan to drive it as long as its faithful to me. Why would I trade it in when I am bonded to it?

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  Great Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By T C - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I average 800 miles a week for business and this is s great car to drive. Its very smooth and responsive without loosing the feel of the road. The gear box adjusts to how youre driving the car. Itll let the car rev out more if youre having fun, and shift at a lower RPM under normal use. I have it 4 months and still turn around to look at it after I park it. For the money it cant be beat, I still love it as much as the day I picked it up from the dealer

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  Vroom Vroom - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By TamaraJN818 - September 29 - 2:50 am

  I really like this car, I upgraded from a Neon :( and this car really has it all - even though its the base model, I dont feel cheated at all. I used these reviews prior to purchasing this car - and I do agree, the car makes a really loud noise when you got to accelerate. But fuel economy is great (got 475 miles of HWY on one trip). The molding of the body of the car can sometimes make it hard to see other passing vehicles - but its all and all a great car and I would defintely recommend it.

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  I love it !!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Rei Fonseca - September 27 - 9:30 am

  Its been a hard decision for me to choose between aerio or galant ... but once I test drive it, I fall in love with galant. so smooth and great price.

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  Style + Value + Performance= Total Pkg. - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By FLShadow - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Ok so I havent had this car very long, I drove it off the showroom floor today and everyone has stopped and complimented me on this car - it is a head turner. The engine is peppy and well suited for its task. I was able to work a few dealer specials to really take a whack at the price. I got 200 gallons of gas, 3 Years of Free Schedule Maitance, $2000 Cash Back & $1000 Loyalty Bonus. It was like I robbed the place for all that is worth - I have the Kalapana Black and it is so glossy and perfect with the beige leather and birchwood trim.