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2004 Mitsubishi Galant Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant Review:
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6.
Mitsubishi Galant Full Review
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2004 Mitsubishi Galant Review
Galant grows from compact to midsize dimensions in a 2004 redesign that brings new styling and more power. DE and ES models retain a 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine, but gain 20 hp. The LS and sporty GTS have a 3.8-liter V6 with 35 hp more than Galant's previous 3.0 V6. A 4-speed automatic is the sole transmission; V6 models include a manual shift gate. All Galants have 4-wheel disc brakes, keyless entry, and power windows/locks/mirrors. V6 versions come with ABS, which is available for the ES. The GTS has a sport-tuned suspension, specific grille, rear spoiler, leather upholstery, and sunroof. It also includes 17-inch alloy wheels vs. the other models' 16-inch steel wheels. Front side airbags are standard for GTS and available for LS and ES. Curtain side airbags are unavailable. Against the 1999-2003 Galant, the '04 grows 4.6 inches in wheelbase, 2.6 in overall length, 3.9 in width, and 2.2 in height. Galant lends its platform to Mitsubishi's Endeavor midsize SUV.
News
Despite a redesign and various dealer come-ons, the latest Galant has been struggling for sales. No major near-term changes loom, but Mitsubishi may attempt to spur demand by juggling equipment, prices and models.
Meantime, Mitsubishi is reportedly talking with corporate sugar-daddy DaimlerChrysler about selling a restyled, retrimmed Dodge Caravan to give the Japanese brand a stronger presence in the mainstream family market. No word on when or if this might happen, but we think model-year 2006 is the earliest it could.
Meantime, Mitsubishi is reportedly talking with corporate sugar-daddy DaimlerChrysler about selling a restyled, retrimmed Dodge Caravan to give the Japanese brand a stronger presence in the mainstream family market. No word on when or if this might happen, but we think model-year 2006 is the earliest it could.
2004 Mitsubishi Galant Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V6) | Rear-seat head room |
| Ride | Cargo room |
| Handling/roadholding (GTS) | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 4-cyl Galants have more-than-adequate power for most situations--test car did 9.0 sec 0-60 mph--but lack the added driver control of V6's manual shift feature. Galant's V6 among largest in midsize class. Delivers strong jump from a stop, satisfying power to merge and pass. Test V6 did 6.8 sec 0-60. Torque steer--pulling to one side under quick acceleration--noticed by some testers. Manual-shift feature provides usefully quick downshifts.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
The 4-cyl Galants have more-than-adequate power for most situations--test car did 9.0 sec 0-60 mph--but lack the added driver control of V6's manual shift feature. Galant's V6 among largest in midsize class. Delivers strong jump from a stop, satisfying power to merge and pass. Test V6 did 6.8 sec 0-60. Torque steer--pulling to one side under quick acceleration--noticed by some testers. Manual-shift feature provides usefully quick downshifts.
Fuel Economy
Test ES 4 cyl averaged 24.2 mpg in city/highway driving mix. Extended-use LS V6 averaging 19.6 mpg over first 5979 mi. V6 Galants require premium-grade fuel.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Test ES 4 cyl averaged 24.2 mpg in city/highway driving mix. Extended-use LS V6 averaging 19.6 mpg over first 5979 mi. V6 Galants require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Comfortable in ES, LS trim, but not as composed at highway speed as Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, or Mazda 6. Firmer GTS suspension in keeping with sporty character, but isn't harsh riding.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
Comfortable in ES, LS trim, but not as composed at highway speed as Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, or Mazda 6. Firmer GTS suspension in keeping with sporty character, but isn't harsh riding.
Steering/Handling/Braking
GTS appropriately sporty, with nicely weighted steering, little lean in corners. Reasonably nimble ES, LS have less direct-feeling steering, feel floaty over some crests. Stopping power feels adequate in routine braking, but quick stops reveal spongy pedal feel, mediocre modulation.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.1 |
GTS appropriately sporty, with nicely weighted steering, little lean in corners. Reasonably nimble ES, LS have less direct-feeling steering, feel floaty over some crests. Stopping power feels adequate in routine braking, but quick stops reveal spongy pedal feel, mediocre modulation.
Quietness
Road, tire noise pronounced in GTS, less intrusive in ES and LS, but none are as quiet as Accord or Toyota Camry. V6 sounds, feels coarse under full throttle.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Road, tire noise pronounced in GTS, less intrusive in ES and LS, but none are as quiet as Accord or Toyota Camry. V6 sounds, feels coarse under full throttle.
Controls
Major controls logically placed, fall readily to hand. Interior has sound assembly, midgrade materials that are in line with Galant prices.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
Major controls logically placed, fall readily to hand. Interior has sound assembly, midgrade materials that are in line with Galant prices.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Easily accommodates 6-footers, and cabin feels impressively wide. Good seat comfort, though addition of telescoping steering wheel would help fine-tune driving position. Cars tested had metallic console trim that reflected in windshield in midday light; outward visibility otherwise fine.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Easily accommodates 6-footers, and cabin feels impressively wide. Good seat comfort, though addition of telescoping steering wheel would help fine-tune driving position. Cars tested had metallic console trim that reflected in windshield in midday light; outward visibility otherwise fine.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Head room tight for 6-footers, but 3-across seating possible without undue crowding. Unconfining footwells, and as much knee clearance as any competitor. Seat nicely contoured, but too soft for best comfort. Wide door openings mean easy entry/exit.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Head room tight for 6-footers, but 3-across seating possible without undue crowding. Unconfining footwells, and as much knee clearance as any competitor. Seat nicely contoured, but too soft for best comfort. Wide door openings mean easy entry/exit.
Cargo Room
Short decklid, high liftover conspire to limit access to otherwise well-shaped trunk. Rear seatbacks don't fold, but trunk pass-through standard on all models.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.6 |
Short decklid, high liftover conspire to limit access to otherwise well-shaped trunk. Rear seatbacks don't fold, but trunk pass-through standard on all models.
Value within Class
Mitsubishi aims Galant squarely at the midsize-class-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Galant matches those cars in roominess and holds its own in acceleration and handling, if not composure or refinement. Transaction prices are likely to be lower, though. Mitsubishi's historically uneven workmanship and poor resale values dampen its appeal, but for cost-conscious midsize shoppers, Galant is worth considering.
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Mitsubishi aims Galant squarely at the midsize-class-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Galant matches those cars in roominess and holds its own in acceleration and handling, if not composure or refinement. Transaction prices are likely to be lower, though. Mitsubishi's historically uneven workmanship and poor resale values dampen its appeal, but for cost-conscious midsize shoppers, Galant is worth considering.
Total Score
| ES | LS | GTS | Class Average |
| 58 | 58 | 58 | 56.1 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 44 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 72 |
2004 Mitsubishi Galant Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/14/2004
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| DE 4-door sedan | $17,997 | $17,090 | $595 |
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| ES 4-door sedan | $18,997 | $17,846 | $595 |
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| LS 4-door sedan | $21,397 | $20,101 | $595 |
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| GTS 4-door sedan | $25,697 | $24,141 | $595 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
DE
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, cupholders, trunk pass-through, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, rear defogger, variable-intermittent wipers, map lights, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 215/60R16 tires, wheel covers.
ES adds to DE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, upgraded sound system.
LS adds to ES:
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
GTS adds to LS:
Safety
Front side airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, power sunroof, Infinity AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, illuminated visor mirrors, compass, outside-temperature indicator.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, rear spoiler, sport suspension, 215/55R17 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Diamond Pkg.
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ES, LS
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$1,262
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$1,100
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, Infinity AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, dual-integrated antenna, alloy wheels. Requires Sunroof Pkg.
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Sunroof Pkg.
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ES, LS
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$800
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$698
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Power sunroof, overhead console, illuminated visor mirrors.
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Leather Plus Pkg.
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ES, LS
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$1,395
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$1,216
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Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, front side airbags, heated mirrors. Requires Diamond Pkg., Sunroof Pkg., front side airbags. ES requires antilock brakes.
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Cold Zone Pkg.
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GTS
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$280
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$244
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Heated front seats and mirrors.
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Safety |
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Antilock brakes
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ES
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$500
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$435
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Front side airbags
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ES, LS
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$250
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$219
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ES requires antilock brakes.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Power driver seat
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LS
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$300
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$262
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Requires front side airbags.
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2004 Mitsubishi Galant Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mitsubishi Galant 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3351 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.7 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc I4 | dohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.4 /145 | 3.8 /234 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 160 @ 5500 | 230 @ 5250 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 157 @ 4000 | 250 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 4-speed automatic | 23/30 | 19/27 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mitsubishi Galant 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 10/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 5/60,000 | On cars purchased after July 1, 2004 |
| Corrosion | 7/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: Sunroof Pkg., Diamond Pkg., Leather Pkg., side air bags. Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 19.45 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat John Biel APR Mark Bilek Galant offers room, power, and features comparable to Accord and Camry V6 at a price that is a few thousand less. On the downside, it isn't as solid or refined and the company and dealership body is suspect. Rick Cotta Seems too much effort was placed on styling and not enough on substance. This is an Altima/Malibu competitor, not an Accord/Camry/Passat competitor. But if performance--notably, acceleration--is of prime importance to you, and you live in an area where the stiff ride isn't as much of a concern, maybe the Galant would warrant a good look. Tom Appel This puppy is aging fast. Squeaks and rattles are poppin up, and the drivetrain seems more ragged than it did even a few thousand miles ago. I wonder about the long haul for this car. |
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Also in the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mitsubishi Galant Full Review
7.
8.
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