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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  Japaneese Marvel - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Rick Pedersen - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Over the last couple of years, I cant believe the level this automaker has reached. It is now award winning with their cars and their technology and deign is amazing. I gave a couple of midsize cars a run, namely the Camry, Accord, Galant, Passat and Altima. They are all great cars and but when deciding on the car for me, it was easy to choose the Galant. The new model feels so much like a luxury car. It looks different and has impeccable quality and feels safe on the road. The car is quick, very much like the Accord but had a more sporty feel. Well done Mitsubishi, and I think you may see a record year of sales of this well thought-out Galant.

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  Thanks again - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Happy2x - August 16 - 4:26 pm

  I have spent $432 average per year in maintenance for 5 years or $2159 in total and that includes the timing belt & p/s belts, brake pads & turned rotors once, 2 tires, battery, wipers, headlamps, 2 flats and LOFs of Mobil 1 at 5000 mile intervals. 24 average MPG and a boost of about 5 MPG after the new timing belt. It has been hit 6 times and has always remained road worthy mechanically. It has been 6 months after the most recent collision. I replaced the sulfated battery at the dealership it was inspected for mechanical and safety items. My 2002 Galant continues to exceeded my expectations. I look forward to owning another Mitsubishi Galant very soon.

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  2004 Galant ES - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Dave Cook - August 11 - 3:36 am

  The wife and I love this car. It is roomy and fast for a four cylinder, with excellent fuel mileage. I recommend purchasing the alloy wheels, as the plastic hubcaps are somewhat flimsy.

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  I love the knew look - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mentoramy05 - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Nice riding car that looks great. I traded in a Montero for this car and it definatly has more room inside. I am very happy that I choose to purchase this vehicle.

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  What a Car!!! - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jamie - August 3 - 8:20 am

  What a car!!!! 150,000 miles and still going strong. Oil changes and gas are the biggest expenses. The interior is still great.

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  This has been my FAVORITE car ever.... - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By DerbyDogz01 - July 24 - 2:00 am

  This is/was my very first "brand new" car. I loved it the day I drove it home, and still love it today. The best part about it to me is how fun it is to drive- mine is only 4 cylinders, but I zip around just fine in it.

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  Wow, What a Car - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Glenn - July 18 - 10:33 am

  This car is fun to drive, comfortable and affordable. Its a great choice!! My Kids love it too, cant wait to go somewhere in the car!!

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  Loving It! - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Tinia - July 9 - 7:23 pm

  I have never purchased a Mitsubishi before because I thought I was in love with Toyota. Based on Edmunds reviews and more importantly, consumer reviews, I decided to give the Gallant a try. The sticker price was excellent compared to Toyota and Honda and I am extremely pleased with my purchase. I had no intention on purchasing an 07 model but with the rebate and other offers, I could not resist. I am a LARGE woman and I can get in and out of the car with NO problems. The performance is great on the road and I love the way people stare!

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  Think Again - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Rhonda - July 4 - 2:00 am

  The 1st month the car was floodeddue to poor window seals. Both interior door handles broke off (recall) and I have had proably 10+ recalls. Tried to turn it in under the lemon law but it has to be the same problem 4+ times. I have has alignments and it still is not striaght and over 70 mph it rattles. The resell value is terrible and to fix any small part as in light covers is very expensive.

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  Stylish, Fun and still very practical. - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jim E. Luv - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the classiest looking cars on the road. I love its look. Its very comfortable, fun and easy to drive.