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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  General comments - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By LKregg - March 21 - 10:00 am

  A lot of interior space for a family with teenagers. Back seat is very comfortable with lots of leg room, without reducing front seat space. Plenty of space in trunk to carry sports equipment, storage and weekend luggage.

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  Satisfied Customer - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MugsyfromFL - March 21 - 10:00 am

  We have owned our Galant for approximately a year and are completely satisfied with it. It is fun to drive and has been reliable.

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  Nice ride - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By midcapwarrior - March 16 - 3:13 pm

  Would like better fuel economy. Overall a pleasant drive and good buy for the money.

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  Could have been better - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By nick_ole - March 10 - 12:34 am

  I bought the base version of this car... Its very plastic, especially the trunk that sounds like a tin-can when you close it. Vehicle has lots of blind spots but for the money, its still okay to drive. One morning, transmission started shifting heavy, took it to the dealer and after 2 days I find out that a squirrel had chewed off a wire that was supplying power to the onboard computer.. My question is, whey leave such an important cable exposed to the element through the vehicle design in the 1st place. Most annoying issue was the squeal of the car when I reverse right after starting the vehicle. Dealer says is happens to all Gallants. Just traded in...

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  An amazingly good car - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By drlarryross - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I have owned a number of cars since 1968: a 59 Chevy Impala, a 71 Triumph TR6, a72 Ford Mustang (4-speed), a 79 Ford Mustang (new), a 1974 Jaguar XJ6L, a Subaru Justy DL (new), a 1988 Ford Taurus (all electric package). None of them can compare with the reliability, functionality, and overall quality of the 2002 Mitsubishi Galant LS that I bought in October 2001. Its been about two years since I bought the car and it has NEVER been in the shop: for me, thats a new world record! If you buy one of these cars new, you will be impressed: all of my passengers are usually amazed.

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  Excellent - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By paul - February 28 - 3:10 pm

  Ive owned this car for five days and have nothing but good things to say about it. it is very fun to drive also comfy. The interior room is tremendous. It has lots of leg room in front and back. Plus it can get out of its own way at highway speeds.

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  Depreciation - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By njdonman - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Nice Car, reliable,had no repair problems in 39,000 miles .The back seat is a little tight. The trunk is smaller then the Cammry but ok. The paint held up well. The car depreciated very quickly due in part to the 0% for 5 years and the glut of used Gallants being sold by rental car companies.

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  BLOWS MY MIND FOR THE MONEY! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MARKJ - February 23 - 2:00 am

  MONEY WELL SPENT IN MY OPINION. I HAVE BEEN SHOPPING FOR A NEW CAR FOR EIGHT MONTHS LOOKING AT DIFFERENT JAPANESE IMPORT MIDSIZED SEDANS. I HAVE BEEN A HONDA FAN FOR MANY YEARS. I HAVE HAD ACCORDS SINCE 1988 AND THIS GALANT IS THE BEST CAR I CAME ACROSS IN YEARS AS YOU CAN SEE I AM NO LONGER A HONDA OWNER. I HAVE LOOKED AT THE ACCORD LX V6 AND THE CAMRY AND OTHERS AND AFTER DRIVING THE GALANT WITH THE 3.8 LITRE V6 I WAS EXTREAMLY IMPRESSED WITH THE POWER AND THE HANDLING. THIS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED A SPORTS SEDAN OR A DRIVERS CAR BECAUSE IT FEELS AND HANDLES LIKE A SPORTS CAR.

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  Fantastic Automobile - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By ballbreaker910 - February 22 - 8:40 pm

  I am the original owner of a 2003 Galant. I cannot express how much I have enjoyed this car. I purchased the car with 42 mile one the odometer. Now it has 201,000 miles. My only complaint is the paint. Every time I see a Galant like mines, the paint is faded terribly. Also the Brakes seem to wear easier than most cars. The climate control needed to be replaced but luckily it was still under warranty. This car has taken a beating. It had been driven every day for about 110 mile a day. Never had a major problem. Engine and tranny has been solid. The one time the car didnt start was because it needed a battery. Mitsubishi has put together a solid car that can compete with all major car brands.

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  Solid car - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By PCengineer - February 21 - 10:00 am

  I personal like the car very much. Prior to buying this car I spent a few months driving around in a 99 altima, and I must say that the Mitsubishi Galant is a much better car. The Galant feels tighter, quitter, and much smother than its competitors. Although my Galant has a 4 cylinder it still feels strong and has ample power for quick acceleration. Excellent sound insulation eliminates road noise making you feel like you are in a high-end car. I personally think the gallant gives you the best bang for your buck.