Mitsubishi continues to work on improving its brand image in the United States. Quality problems and weak resale values have plagued the Japanese automaker in recent years. The company's 2005 sales were 124,000, a 23 percent drop from 2004 and 64 percent less than its best year in 2002.

On a more positive note, sales of the sporty Eclipse coupe were up more than 76 percent in 2005 vs. 2004. An Eclipse Spyder convertible goes on sale early this year as a 2007 model, and a redesigned Outlander SUV will appear this fall.

At the 2006 Chicago Auto Show, Mitsubishi debuted a redesigned version of its Galant midsize sedan.

2007 Mitsubishi Galant
2007 mitsubishi galant 2007 mitsubishi galant 2007 mitsubishi galant
2007 mitsubishi galant­

Mitsubishi showed its restyled 2007 Galant midsize sedan at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. While all models receive freshened fascias and a new grille, the company is adding a high-performance Ralliart model to the lineup. It receives a 258-horsepower version of the Eclipse coupe's 3.8-liter V6 engine, coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Mitsubishi estimates 0-60 mph acceleration at 7.0 seconds. Ralliarts sport a unique grille, two-tone bumpers, and lower body panel extensions.

Inside, these models get standard heated leather seats, automatic climate control, and a 360-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. Other restyled Galant models include base DE and ES, which have a 160-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. The GTS trim also returns with a 230-horsepower 3.8-liter V6. Officials said the Galant Ralliart will start below competitors like the Acura TL and Nissan Altima SE-R, which means it will be around $29,000. The 2007 Galant is scheduled to appear at dealerships this summer.

2006 Chicago Auto Show

Auto show video