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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  The 1999 Mitsubishi Galant - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Matt - April 7 - 6:30 pm

  I bought my 1999 Galant in August of 2005 and have loved it ever since. It is fun to drive and handles very well. The exterior styling of the car looks great. The interior is nice and clean. The car is reliable and I have had no problems with it.

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  Good So Far - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By RJB - April 4 - 9:00 am

  This maybe one of the most fun cars I have ever driven. I have had two Mercedes and they were not as much fun as my Ralliart. It is a very nice car!

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  Stealth Cruiser - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By X-Honda guy - March 28 - 9:46 pm

  Youll have a grin on your face and people will wonder why... I bought a new 2004 Galant LS (MSRP $21,992) for less than a Corolla or Civic, I recieved Customer/Loyalty rebates of $5,000 plus another $2,200 from the dealer delivered LS for $14,800. ReSale is a non-issue now. Its not a boring ride, its fast, handles well in corners. It loves snow and mountain roads. It has an attitude lurking under that mild mannered exterior. Gets good mileage (23+) and not a penny from me for maintanence (Free!). Pearl red paint is Candy apple in the sun. For giggles just place your right foot all the way down transforming your Ho Hum commute into an amusement park ride. Wheee!

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  2007 Mitsubishi Galant - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By galant07 - March 25 - 12:46 pm

  This car is a bargain with a capital "B". I got mine with the sport package (alloy wheels, Rockford stereo w/changer and steering wheel controls, Sirius, spoiler and upgraded lights, security system). Handling is regarded as the best of the mid-sizers and the seats and legroom are fantastic (and Im 63"). Another 20 hp would be nice, but hey, Im getting 27 mpg with a city/hwy mix and its peppy enough for most driving. The stereo is just unbelievable and the manual shift mode is f-u-n.

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  Outstanding vehicle - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Rod92106 - March 22 - 10:00 am

  We rented this vehicle and took a 2000 mile drive vacation. It was an outstanding experiance. I am currently looking to purchase my own.

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  Overall, Great Car! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Steph S. - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I love my new Galant. I shopped for several months before buying in May. I test drove the new Altima, Camry, Stratus, and Accord. The Galant out does them all in performance and design. And, what a great price! If you are in the market to buy a mid- size sedan you must test drive the new Galant. Watch out for the gas mileage - you will not get 23 MPG!

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  Excellent for the starters - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Anand - March 10 - 2:00 am

  I tried 10-15 used cars of different make before buying Mitsubishi. But the Galant gave me the smoothest ride, and even one full year after purchasing, it is as smooth as ever before.

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  Very reliable - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Sondra - March 5 - 9:50 am

  I bought my Galant brand new in 2001. Other than routine maintenance, my Galant has never required repair. I still love the look and still enjoy driving it. I have no plans to upgrade my car as there is no need!

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  Galiant Galant - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Nsdqmstr - March 4 - 10:00 am

  My other car is a Mitsubishi 3000GT - So the inherent ride quality of the Galant is a little cushy as I sometimes take corners as if Im in the three thou. There are many great things to list - Picking one, Id say the styling vs. price ratio. From certain angles (grill excluded) youd think it was a BMW! I like that.

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  Impressed - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Craig - February 16 - 2:53 pm

  We almost bought an 02 Altima SL before we saw the Galant. I am really glad that we didnt get the Altima. The Galant is so much better in so many ways. That and the dealership was better. I like what it comes with for the money. Although we purchased ours used, we dont get the 10 yr/100,000 mile warranty. Oh well, not really a big deal.