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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  Awesome Car - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Josh - August 30 - 2:43 pm

  The Galant is a very under-rated sedan. It handles great, even with the 4 cyl. has plenty of power when needed and can get great gas mileage. It handles very well and looks awesome. It is very unique, not many people drive them. Despite its EPA rating being lower than other sedans, I still manage to get 25-26 mpg by driving it in town. The Galant is an awesome car. Even after two and a half years it feels new. The resale value isnt very good, but that does mean a used one would be a lot cheaper than a new one and still a great ride.

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  My Mitsubishi Galant ES V6 - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Naz Berumen - August 12 - 10:06 pm

  My car has not given me any trouble, it;s been very reliable and very durable. The only inconveniace was had to tighten fan belt once. Other than that slight problem, the car is well put together and fun to drive.

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  Just three letters.........G T S! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By John - August 10 - 12:16 pm

  I have found the comparison of amenities to car price for the GTS to be the best out of sedans. However, I have been plagued by problems since I purchased it. I only hope Mitsubishi can fix them since the car is great all- around.

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  I LOVE IT - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By JUSTIN WASHINGTON - August 8 - 1:56 pm

  I love my Galant. The experience was wonderful when I purchased it. The interior is sporty as well as the outside. This is by far the best quality car Ive had.

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  It OK, but nothing more - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By doublel9 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  good, but not great. The dashboard rattles showing bad build quality. the wheel alignment is forever off-center. And the lack of folding side mirrors is a DISGRACE. Ive knocked off two already. Once when a bicycle! brushed it. Utter disgrace. Engine is very smooth and there is good interior room. Again, its a good car, but not great

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  Very disapointed - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By warnecj - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car strait off of the truck. This was my first mistake. When I got in I noticed the tweeter on the driver door was missing from the Premium sound system. It took 3 months to get fixed. I then spent 2 months trying to get the airbag fixed. After having the car for about 1.5 years the stereo went. The dealer replaced it, but not long after the warrenty expiered, it would not read cds again. It cost me 300 to get a new stereo. I have spent more time at the shop than I have on the road. When I called Mitsu about the problems, they did not even seen to care. I will not buy a Mitsu. ever agian.

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  I love the New Design!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Kelvin Rance - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I have been in love with Galants since i was 13 and i told myself i was going to get a galant i am glad i waited for the new galant body style before getting the older model i would have really been unhappy but never the less i am definately a mitsubishi fan i have 2 mitsubishis before this one a mirage and galant and i will tell you what i will stay with mitsubishi as far as i am concern. I love the sportronic feature in my car it makes it a fun toy. Just word of advice if you are in the south florida area, dont get your car from Delray Mitsubishi their sales manager is really rude and dont put their customers as num.1 priority!!!

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  I love my galant...... - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By HappyGalantOwner - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Mitsubishi Galant LS V6 8800 miles so far. I traded in my 94 mustang GT convertable to get ready for twins on the way. I love my galant..... If your looking for a car that has great performance and your not concerned with extra gadgets on the interior then this is the car for you. It handles awsum and looks classy. Its a smooth ride with great pickup. The inside is a little bit prehistorc and uninspired though. Theres no style to the inside at all. But after reading my review I guess the inside isnt that big a deal. I still love my galant and I see myself purchasing many more Mitsubishis in the future.

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  My First Car, It Rocks - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By My first car!! rocks - July 6 - 1:16 am

  I bought this car like 2 weeks ago. I ahve not had any problems with it so far. It has a sporty exterior but a so so interior. I agree with the fact that there is very little room for the backseat. Its acceleration is kinda poor. I compared it with the Honda Accord that my friend has. It is in the same class and everything. Perhaps I expect too much from my Galant. Overall its a very good USED car. The value of this car went down like crazy regardless you buy it new or used. It comes with keyless entry, etc. I love this car. I am gonna hold on to it and Ill buy another Galant later on. Mitsubishi rocks!!! Of course, I wouldnt buy a new one.

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  Trouble free car - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Smith - June 30 - 10:43 pm

  I ve never felt safer in a car. My Galant is easy to drive, reliable, and trouble free. With regular maintenance, youll keep driving it forever. It has 105,000 miles on it now and it still drives like new. The only major "investment" was a timing belt changed at 85k (typical I was told). Besides the ususal: brake pads, tires and that s about it. The day I sell it I will buy a new one.