2009 Mitsubishi Galant: Road Test
2009 Mitsubishi Galant ▼
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- MSRP: $21,249 - $27,449
- Invoice: $20,049 - $25,898
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Our road test for the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant help you decide if a 2009 Mitsubishi Galant is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 5.5 |
Four-cylinder Galants have more-than-adequate power for most situations--an ES did 9.0 seconds 0-60 mph in our tests. The Ralliart's V6 is very responsive in any situation. On all, the automatic transmission provides smooth shifts. Even with traction control, some test Ralliarts scrambled for traction in quick getaways.
FUEL ECONOMY
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an ES averaged 24.2 mpg in a city/highway mix. A test Ralliart averaged 17.6 mpg in similar driving conditions and 21.7 mpg with highway use. V6 Galants require premium-grade gas; 4-cylinder models use regular.
RIDE QUALITY
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Comfortable in ES and Sport trim, but most midsize rivals are more composed at highway speeds. Ralliart has a firmer suspension for improved control with little comfort compromise.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.9 |
The Ralliart has nicely weighted steering and little cornering lean. Other models are reasonably nimble, but don't control body motions as well on their softer suspensions. The brakes are adequate in routine use, but simulated panic stops revealed spongy pedal action and only average stopping distances. One test Ralliart suffered from squeaky brakes during hard stops.
QUIETNESS
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 |
Road and tire noise are pronounced in the Ralliart, less so in other models. No Galant matches the refinement of the midsize-class leaders. The V6 has a sporty exhaust note that some may find tiresome.
CONTROLS
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
On models without the navigation system, most switchgear is handy and logical. The gauges are easy to read. The navigation system is integrated into the center dashboard stack in a way that leaves it sticking out of the dashtop. The navigation system is harder to program than most, but it only absorbs a few audio controls. The navigation screen becomes almost illegible when set in "night" mode while driving in twilight conditions.
DETAILS
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Cabin materials are OK for this price range, but are not impressive. Some Galants tested suffered from ill-fitting interior panels. One test Ralliart had a persistent and loud dashboard squeak.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Easily accommodates six-footers. Good seat comfort, though the addition of a telescopic steering wheel would help some drivers fine-tune their positioning. Cars tested had metallic console trim that caused annoying daytime windshield reflections. Aft visibility is subpar.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
Foot and knee space are good, but six-footers will be cramped for headroom. The seat is a bit too soft for best comfort. Wide door openings ease entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Short decklid and high liftover limit utility of the roomy, usefully shaped trunk. Galant is hurt by offering only a center pass-through to the cabin, rather than folding rear seatbacks. Cabin storage is nothing special.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 6.3 |
Galant matches the midsize-class leaders for roominess, and holds its own in acceleration and handling, particularly the sporty Ralliart. These sedans lag in mechanical refinement, solidity, interior materials, and assembly quality. Yes, Galant typically sells for less than its rivals, but that's offset by Mitsubishi's lower resale values.
Total Score
| ES | Ralliart w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 56 | 63 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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