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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KGs Galant - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
By King George - December 14 - 10:00 amOverall, I am happy with my Galant. The V6 is a sweet engine. Smooth with decent power. Too bad you cant get it with a manual. Its a good handler. I have realized that I should have bought the LS version since it would have been cheaper than going the aftermarket route for alloys and a decent stereo. This is my first Japanese car and I am impressed with its build quality and reliability. I have owned Volkswagens and American cars previously. Other than recalls, I have not had to take my Galant in for anything. It did have warped rotors and I have replaced them with Powerslot rotors and the brakes work fantastic.
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Fun Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By Kevin T - November 19 - 10:00 amWe bought the LS brand new and we are not sorry we did. Great car. Growing family wanted something sporty safe and with a little more room. I would recommend a Galant.
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GTZ, a great car, but lacks the push - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
By Walrus2004 - November 10 - 10:00 amThe GTZ is my third car, I am only 18 years old. It is next to an BMW on looks and interior, but lacks the kick and power of a BMW. I have a GTZ, which has no different engine than the V6 ES, just a sport suspension and other options included. I love the car, but if you are looking for something fast, youre looking in the wrong place. Awesome sound system and great for picking up a date!
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Go ahead be different - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By whale - October 29 - 1:33 pmAs said in the title of this review, dont be like your neighbors and everyone else and buy an Accord or Camry, get the Galant. You will not fall asleep looking at it. Its less expensive, more fun to drive, and better looking. Its amazing how many people look as you drive down the street. Ive had it for almost 2 months, bought new, the only problem is the front headlight gasket came loose on the right side, but it was quickly repaired under warranty.
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2007 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is expensive to maintain - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
By bbod78 - October 25 - 3:40 pmI purchased my 2007 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart as a second owner when the vehicle only had 11,000 miles on it. The car is amazingly fun to drive with excellent acceleration and handling, it is also amazingly expensive to maintain. The parts and labor associated with fixing this vehicle are out of control and difficult to locate. The gas mileage is unacceptable for todays gas prices (I average about 16 MPG city/22 MPG highway, non-aggressive driving). The tires, too, that come standard with this car cost nearly $200 a tire and last only approximately 30,000 miles. Frequently stores dont even have the tires in stock and have to special order them! This car was too much of an expensive.
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Its not going to work!! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
By Fuzzywife - September 25 - 2:00 amThis car has a fairly nice design, but is too under-powered for my taste and for the price I paid for it (13K used!) I should have bought the Diamante!
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2004 Galant ES Bought at 45k miles - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By RK - September 23 - 2:56 amI bought a 2004 Mitsubishi Galant ES in July 2009 from a Mitsubishi Dealership (Schaumburg, IL). I had a fantastic experience with the dealer by the way. The car was at 45k miles and 1-owner when I purchased. Good used-car bargain. Came with great features including powered sunroof, infinity audio system, 17" alloy wheels and leather strapped steering wheel. Excellent control and driving performance. Low on the mileage (I get around 22 mpg city and highway mix). Havent used in snow yet... hopefully it will drive well. Love the exterior and the looks.
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Decent Nice Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
By CJ4482 - September 17 - 6:00 pmThis is my 1st Mitsubishi. Its a nice car, decent and I enjoy driving it. Ive had A/C problems way too much and the back seating is kind of tight. I would recommend this car for a 1st timer, or a commuter car, poor gas mileage, although I do like this car, I will not be buying another one nor will I be buying any other Mitsubishi.
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MY FAMILY CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By STACY RUTECKI - September 8 - 10:00 amTHIS CAR IS FUN TO DRIVE. I AM VERY PLEASES WITH THE FUEL USAGE AND RELIABILITY. THE ONLY THING I WOULD CHANGE IS THE INTERIOR DESIGN (A LITTLE).
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Galant GTZ - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
By KS - September 3 - 8:16 pmThis car is comfortable, reliable, fast and safe. My infant is as happy in the back as I am driving or riding in the front.
