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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  GALANT: The most unique and fun sedan - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By GetSmartAgnt86 - November 19 - 9:00 am

  I am in love with my new car. I bought my 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS for many reasons. First, and most importantly, the price was within my price range. Second, it is a great car to drive. I test drove almost every other car in its class, including the Camry and Accord, and the Galant drove much smoother with better handling and performance. I love the V6 engine. It is very powerful. Third, I love the styling. The look of the new Galant is head and shoulders above pre-2004 models and above the Camry, Accord, and any other 4 door sedan for the same price. In short, I am very happy with my purchase and I look forward to many exciting miles of road ahead.

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  Great car - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By jsmith - November 13 - 2:43 am

  I bought this car July of last year, and have been very happy. Its just a base model but has all the features I could need (power, air, remote). My previous car was a Honda Accord, which I loved but I couldnt afford to buy another one at that point. I have to say this car is very similar to my Accord. It has nice acceleration, handling, and I actually like it more than I thought I would. The best part is that I have not had to fix it once all year, and I have put 25,000 miles on it. I drive a lot and live in a harsh 4-season climate, this car has handled them all well. I really would recommend this car to anyone who is looking for an affordable, reliable car.

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  Great car both mechanically and structurally. - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mhannah1 - November 2 - 8:52 pm

  My daughter was in a terrible accident at a very high rate of speed on the interstate. The front end was unrecognizable. My daughter walked away without a scratch. This car can sustain major front and side impacts. We truly believe this car saved our daughters life. We bought it brand new and never had a problem with it, very reliable. We will be looking for another one as a replacement.

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  Consumer Ratings have more value - 2008 Mitsubishi Galant
  By lovemycar - October 30 - 1:30 pm

  I love my Galant. Its stylish, nice looking interior. Great on gas. Had it for over 2 years now and still love driving it! I usually get sick of cars quickly, not this one, not yet anyway.

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  Ladiez love it - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By djdluzion68 - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 1999 Galant in 2002....not a good idea, at first glance. However, this is possibly one of the most stylish, well designed vehicles in the class. A comparably equipped Accord or Camry is at least $4,000-5,000 more, and both are arguably more conservative..... I can drive this car, have enough passing power, get awesome gas mileage (w/ K&N air filter), and not break my bank.... And best of all, every female I know has commented on how it lookz....maybe it is a poor manz BMW, but being in the Air Force, I am a POOR man..... cant complain at all!!!!

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  So You Want To Know What a 2000 Galant Can Do - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By joed99 - October 20 - 10:27 pm

  Bought my Mitz Galant in late 2000. Retiring my Galant in late 2012. Mileage.... 273,000 (YEP 273K). THIS CAR WAS A BUY ! !! After driving so many miles, in so many different weather conditions, with so many cargo runs (Kayaks, Bikes, Skies, ) this car has NEVER let me down. How? Great mechanic, keeping with the timing belt maintenance schedule, changing the oil. So since she has been such a great car, I would say it is time to retire her even though she still starts EVERY time, no hesitation, no stalling. If only we could all have someone or something so reliable. Only one problem that ALL you Old Timer Galant owners know... WHERES MY HUB CAP ? ? ?

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  Blah! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mikedwood - October 18 - 4:02 am

  I like the way it drives and its strong as can be for a non-turbo 4 cyl, but pray to God for guidance if you need to do much more than change the oil or air filter. This is my 2nd Mitzu and my last ever. Parts are hard to come by and expensive! My wife got it in 2009 and in 2011 before 80,000 miles it needed a head gasket, 2 struts and plates, front axle and two 02 sensors. Parts only avalible from Mitsubishi on all but the 02 sensors. Fortunately my mechanic works at a junk yard by day and stripped the heck out of a wreck and we were able to get about $2,000 in parts for about $500.

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  Excellent Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Michael Paul - October 14 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. It is very dependable and is a smooth ride. The seats are comfortable and the sound system is good. If you are looking for a sporty sedan, then this car is for you.

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  Great car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By FLASH - October 11 - 11:53 pm

  This is a reliable and sporty ride. Its quick and good looking. The only negative is after 3 years, the black paint became spotted with white dots and the dealer in Florida would not warrant the repainting. This is my 2nd galant purchase brand new, this one being the V6. It now has 86,000 and with the new paint job(silver) looks great. The resale however is poor.

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  So far so good at 50K - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By tjk in MN - October 8 - 1:26 am

  Its been good to me for a very reasonable price when bought new. Praises from me include, decent engine power, good gas mileage, great looks, and fun to drive. Small complaints would include the limited-small trunk pass-through, the back seat only fits two (2) kids car seats, and its hard to see the air conditioning light during the daytime. Ours also seems to have an affinity for attracting summertime hail storms (two so far). Overall, great vehicle with no maintenance problems...