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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  Fun car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Britt - January 10 - 7:30 pm

  I have loved this car!! I bought it a few years ago, and I have had minor problems. The biggest one was probably that the coil went bad, but ever since then it has just been tightening of belts and routine maintance. It takes a lot of abuse from me. I have to admit Im one of those aggressive drivers. So Im not the easiest on the car and it still does great. It has a lot of get up and go when you need it. I have put about 40,000 miles on it since Ive had it and it runs great. The A/C could be a little colder.

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  Lincoln Ride for Honda Price - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Kells - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Plain in nature, this car is great fun. I had never owned a Mitsubishi before, but I love it. It gives me a ride comfort similar to my Jaguar did. Much less engine performance but tremendous gas mileage! I would highly recommend this car.

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  Great Used Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Greg - January 2 - 2:00 pm

  I bought this car to drive to work back in 2003. It had 9,975 miles on it when I bought it and it now has 149,700 on it. Ive never had anything done to it other than normal maintenance. The only thing thats ever gone bad is the battery and brakes. Its been the best car Ive ever owned.

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  The Galant has Come a Long Way - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By StanBear - January 1 - 1:00 am

  I must let everyone know how far Mitsubishi has come in this evolution. Having owned two of the previous style Galants (99 and 02) as well as Maximas, etc, I feel qualified to make a judgment. The big thing they finally got right was the room. This car has a fantastic roomy back seat, even more so than Maxima in past. Beyond that the quality is up to snuff, and the driving experience is terrific even though only the 4-cyl. engine. I enjoy driving it more that our 2004 Cadillac DeVille DTS. Though the 4-cyl is slightly on the noisy side, it is the best of breed. There is always enough torque and power available (better than the 89 Maxima V6). The car moves out so easily its hard to believe, even on passing.

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  PERFER CAMRY!!!!! - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By KDUB - December 24 - 2:00 am

  HAD 97 CAMRY AND LOVED IT, GOT TOTALED IN ACCIDENT. IN ITS PLACE GOT 00 GALANT ES. INTERIOR NOT COFORTABLE FOR 6 FOOT PLUS INDIVIDUAL. KIDS NOTICED DIFFERENCE IN BACK SEAT, NO ROOM. HAVING PROBLEM WITH DOME LIGHT, WONT SHUT OFF AFTER CLOSING DOOR. THATS ENOUGH DONT GET ME STARTED.

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  Nice Car - 2010 Mitsubishi Galant
  By meeisdee - December 19 - 1:00 am

  This is my third Galant - I have owned a 1992, 2004 and now a 2010. I also own an Endeavour. To me, the Galant can not be beat. It looks good, drives good and is overall - reliable. My first car was topping 200K miles - 140K of which I put on myself. I never had ONE (not even one) major problem. The car was even rear-ended and held up beautifully with no injuries in the back seat. I am pleased with my new 2010 and hope to get as many miles out of this one as I have my others.

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  Not Perfect But Nice - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Lil J - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I originally bought this car with the intent to trade it in within two years. 3 years later...still driving it with no immediate desire to trade. It has a smooth ride with just enough power and stylish looks. Did have a few minor problems but the dealership I brought from has a great service department and they always take of any problems I have plus provide a rental car. I think for the money this car is the best deal you can get. It definitely forced Toyota, Honda, and Nissan to go back to the drawing board after the Galant was rated best mid size sedan in 1999. Definitely buy an extended warranty though.

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  Overall a decent car - Needs many small improvements - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By diesengine - December 11 - 1:57 pm

  Overall quite pleased. Car yields about 25 mpg in 90% city, 10% highway driving. Like the sound of the engine when accelerating. Not that many on the road so it stands out with its sporty styling. Random noises occasionally come from the cabin. Can hear sound of gas sloshing around in back when filled full. Rear was redesigned in 2009 which looks somewhat like Lexus IS although with larger tail lights. Also added for 2009 was 4-wheel ABS, Tire pressure monitor, shiftable transmission and daytime running lights. The car sits lower to the ground than other midsize sedans and is more fun to drive than just about all except for the Mazda6. Has tight steering which lets you feel the road.

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  galant review - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By chris litterini - November 24 - 10:00 am

  its a nice 4dr car. its great on gas and its great on the highway. Its very comfortable and quiet. Its a good well-build and reliable car.

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  Great Family Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By very nice car - November 12 - 5:03 pm

  My 2004 Mitsubishi Galant has a very roomy back seat area, but the front head room could be a little higher. Also, the steering wheel tilt could have a little more range. Overall, this cars driving comfort is great. The road noise is a little loud, but overall it is a very good driving car.