Mitsubishi Galant Review

2009 Mitsubishi Galant Sport Edition Sedan Shown

For decades, the Mitsubishi Galant assumed the role of fringe player in the compact/midsize family sedan segments. While representing a good value for the budget-conscious consumer whether new or used, it was certainly no match for the class leaders in these hotly contested segments due to its small backseat, mediocre powertrains and uninspiring interior design and execution.

Having watched other automakers successfully super-size their sedans with premium features and larger V6s under the hood, Mitsubishi knew not to fight the tide when it was time to redesign the Galant. Consequently, the latest fifth-generation model -- most recently reworked in 2004 -- was engineered exclusively for the North American market. Its dimensions grew and it became available with a 230-horsepower V6 to keep up.

On the road, we find the Mitsubishi Galant to be one of the more fun-to-drive family sedans. The V6 engine delivers plenty of power and torque for passing and merging, and 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 positive feedback from the road is transmitted through the driver seat, aided by steering that's generally quick and responsive.

Although lacking some desirable features, the Mitsubishi Galant with V6 power remains an appealing, performance-oriented alternative for value-conscious new or used buyers who don't necessarily follow the crowd or demand the latest glitz and glamour from their midsize sedan.

The midsize, four-door Mitsubishi Galant is offered in four trim levels -- DE, ES, GTS and the athletic Ralliart. The entry-level DE comes with four-cylinder power and the basics; the well-equipped ES adds some stylized trim and a few more conveniences plus available premium option groups; the high-fashion GTS is fully loaded with six-cylinder power, larger alloy wheels, leather trim, a moonroof and a host of luxury items. The new high-performance Ralliart is powered by a high-output version of the Galant's V6 engine and comes with a sport suspension, 18-inch wheels and enhanced exterior styling.

Powering the DE and ES is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 160 hp. GTS models come with a 3.8-liter V6 rated at 230 horses. The range-topping Ralliart checks in with 258 hp from the same power plant. A four-speed automatic transmission is specified for all, and V6 models sport a manual-shift mode.

Uniquely styled inside and out, the Galant now features one of the more distinctive cabin designs in its class, with a cascading center console and large climate and audio controls, along with a display screen and bright blue backlighting at night. Materials quality is now generally good, though some surfaces still get by on the cheap. Behind the wheel you'll find the driver seat agreeable and roomy; rear-seat comfort is now also more competitive and amenable to adults than in the tighter, previous-generation Galant. The seatback still doesn't fold down, but there is a ski/cargo pass-through to increase utility.

Its shortcomings may keep it from the ranks of the midsize sedan segment leaders, but the Mitsubishi Galant remains a likable, performance-oriented new or used alternative for budget-minded buyers who don't require all the bells and whistles or maximum refinement in a family sedan.

The Galant was last redesigned in 2004, growing larger and gaining power to keep up with its worthy midsize rivals in the North American market. In a review, we said that it's "worth a look if you're not one to follow the crowd." Of the mostly unchanged 2006 Galant, our editors enjoyed its strong V6, balanced ride and handling and stylish and comfortable cabin. Changes to this generation have been minimal.

The previous-generation Mitsubishi Galant was available from 1999-2003. It was the first Galant to come with a V6 engine. In 2002 its design was again freshened inside and out, with trim and content changes like Infinity sound systems, sunroof and 16-inch wheels sprucing things up through the 2003 model year. For those used 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, second or third 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 as before was destined to remain a second-tier value player due to its compact-mid dimensions, cramped interior, four-cylinder power and lack of overall refinement.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.