Mitsubishi Galant Review

2009 Mitsubishi Galant Sport Edition Sedan Shown

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.

The Mitsubishi Galant may still be out of the spotlight in the family sedan segment, but it's a pretty capable car in its own right. Folks who don't necessarily follow the crowd or demand the latest glitz and glamour from their midsize sedan, as well as those who appreciate a somewhat performance-biased driving experience, would be well-advised to give the Galant a look.

Current Mitsubishi Galant

The Mitsubishi Galant midsize sedan comes in four trim levels – base ES, Sport Edition, Sport V6 and Ralliart. The ES has the basics, including air-conditioning, full power features and a CD player. The Sport Edition adds alloy wheels, some stylized trim and a few more conveniences, while the Sport V6 ups the ante with a 230-horsepower V6 and an upgraded audio system. The Ralliart boasts a more powerful (258-hp) V6 along with 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension.

Non-V6 trims are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 160 hp. Disappointingly, a four-speed automatic transmission is still specified for four-cylinder models (most rivals have five or even six speeds) while V6-powered Galants sport a five-speed auto with manual-shift capability.

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. Materials quality is generally good, though there are still some low-grade plastics. The front seats are agreeable and roomy, while rear-seat comfort is adequate is still 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.

In reviews, we've found the Mitsubishi Galant to be one of the more fun-to-drive family sedans. The V6 engines deliver plenty of power 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 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. A four-cylinder SE model, featuring leather upholstery and automatic climate control, was added for '06.

For V6 Galants, a five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed unit for '07. That same year, the LS was dropped and the high-performance Ralliart debuted. 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 and Sport V6 appeared.

Although 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) available on the Galant, stability control was never offered.

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.

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