2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant: Road Test

The 4-cylinder Galants have more-than-adequate power for most situations-one test car did a 9.0-second 0-60 mph run--but lack the added driver control of the V6's manual shift feature. The Galant's V6 is among the largest in the midsize car class. It delivers strong takeoffs and satisfying power to merge and pass. A test V6 did 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Torque steer--pulling to one side under quick acceleration--was noticed by some testers. The V6's manual-shift feature provides usefully quick downshifts. A test ES 4-cylinder averaged 24.2 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. An extended-use LS V6 averaged 19.7 mpg over its 9869-mile test. V6 Galants require premium-grade fuel. The Galant's ride is comfortable in DE, ES, and LS trim, but it's not as composed at highway speed as a comparable Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, or Mazda 6. The sporty Galant GTS's suspension is firmer, but not harsh. The GTS has appropriately athletic handling, with nicely weighted steering and little body lean in corners. The reasonably nimble DE, ES, and LS have less direct-feeling steering and feel floaty over some crests. On all, stopping power feels adequate in routine braking, but quick stops reveal a spongy pedal feel and mediocre modulation. Inside, Galant's major controls are logically placed and fall readily to hand. The interior has sound assembly, with midgrade materials that are in line with Galant prices. Road and tire noise are pronounced in GTS, less intrusive in DE, ES and LS, but none are as quiet as a comparable Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Galant's V6 sounds and feels coarse under full throttle. The Galant's front seats easily accommodate 6-footers, and the cabin feels impressively wide. Front seat comfort is good, though the lack of a telescoping steering wheel slightly limits driving-position options. Cars tested had metallic console trim that reflected in windshield in midday light; outward visibility is otherwise fine. Rear-seat head room is tight for 6-footers, but 3-across seating is possible without undue crowding. The rear seat area boasts unconfining footwells and as much knee clearance as any competitor. The rear seat itself is nicely contoured, but a bit too soft for the best comfort. Wide door openings mean easy entry/exit. The Galant's overall cargo space is average. A short decklid and high liftover conspire to limit access to the otherwise well-shaped trunk. The rear seatbacks don't fold, but a trunk pass-through is standard on all models.

Value for the Money
Galant matches midsize class-favorites Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for roominess, and holds its own in acceleration and handling. But it lags in refinement, ride comfort, and materials quality. However, Galant's resale values are lower than Accord's or Camry's, so for budget-conscious shoppers, Mitsubishi's midsize sedan is worth considering.