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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  First new car - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Amanda - October 7 - 12:46 pm

  After 3 used cars, the 09 Galant became my first new one and I love it! I came out of a 98 Galant and what a difference. Ive racked up over 12000 miles in 5 months so I have a good feel for all aspects of the cars performance. I could nitpick and agree about the lower quality plastic interior and stuff, but thats not what I rely on to get me around town. The interior is driver friendly, spacious, and comfortable in any type climate. It pulls well going up mountains, downshifts nicely in bad weather and has smooth acceleration. I would wish for a few more horses on those short on ramps, but otherwise, it has plenty of get up and go.

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  Good sporty sedan - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Gagan - October 4 - 12:50 am

  I like the styling and the steering of the car. It has given me no problems at all. The V6 engine provides this car a lot of spright.

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  Mediocre - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By tangesazen - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This car has ok looks, and I had 15 years of good experiences with previous Mitsubishi vehicles. I was looking for a four-door car with good mileage and good workmanship. After twenty months, I would rate this Galant as very mediocre. Mileage claimed was 33 Hwy, 27 City. I get 25 avg with 90% Hwy miles. Workmanship. Ive lost track of how many things have fallen off this car or no longer fit well. And they must have run out of money, the entire trunk looks like it was made with the $15 left in their budget. There is a _LOT_ of cabin noise also. My next car will not be a Mitsubishi.

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  Shouldve Bought a Honda - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By w360 - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Ill admit it, I got suckered in to the Mitsubishi 0%/0 down/0 payments campaign. I should have waited to get a Honda Accord. The car (4cyl)looks great and has good oomph when you step on the gas. Had to replace the tires at 35K mile and brake rotors needed repaired at 50K mile and now again at 54K. Materials used are cheap and has adequate fit and finish. Its no Honda, but live and learn. Depreciates faster than an Olympic sprinter.

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  Mitsubishi Galant 2003 - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By LukePackersFan - September 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a good solid automobile with good handling. I would advise the GTZ model however, as the V-6 is probably one of the most enjoyable features.

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  Most reliable car Ive ever owned - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By TW - September 18 - 4:16 pm

  Yes I was one of "those" who bought this car brand new. Of course after two Fords and a Chevy, Id wanted to give the foreign market a try. Honda and Toyota were too expensive and the Galant turned out to be a great commuter car. 146K miles later and I must say its been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. No major work outside of schedule maintenance. Changed the oil every 5K. Id rate this car just as high as any Honda or Toyota from the same year. Are there things that could be better? Yeah usually there are, but Im very pleased with the Galant.

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  Its no evo - 2012 Mitsubishi Galant
  By colby_butler - September 14 - 11:59 pm

  This Mitsubishi isnt special or have bells and whistles yet its a comfortable ride and spacious. My model was a base, however Im sure there are better options available.

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  A good buy! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Lukea - September 6 - 2:00 am

  The Galant is safely one of the better midsize cars on the market. Despite the fact that it is not a top seller, the Mitsubishi image is very good and makes me proud to be a Galant owner. The car drives very smoothly and has alot of power. The quality is very similar to the Accord V6, so ill say its average for the price. The car is very roomy and gets many compliments.

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  Great car, bad interior - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jaxx - August 27 - 10:00 am

  Had a lease on a 2001 Eclipse so I had to purchase another Mistu or take a big hit. Drove the Galant GTS a couple of times, great ride, acceleration, handleing, features, radio, and I also like the lcd screen. The ice blue lighting looks great at night. The car has a lot of room, I test drove a Grand Prix and the Galant is bigger or just feels like it. As you can tell I like the redesigned Galant and this is my third Mitsu. but the interior is bad, a lot of cheap materials. The sand grain rubber that covers the upper doors and dash is hard and not comfy. I sat in the Diamante, very nice inside why does Mitsu not use these materials in the Galant!!

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  Absolute Favorite - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mjkj - August 22 - 8:33 pm

  I purchased this car about 5 days ago after reading numerous reviews and having a friend who currently owns one. I have it say it is great car. I also have a 06 Dodge Stratus that is horrible on gas and bucks on the road when you pass the second gear, so this is a great step up!