2008 Mitsubishi Galant Review

The Galant is a midsize sedan made its U.S. debut in 1971 as the Dodge Colt. In 1994, production shifted from Japan to Illinois. Currently in its ninth generation, the Galant has long been associated with sporty performance.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mitsubishi Galant might have a sporty reputation, but the 2008 model may not truly deserve it. It doesn’t offer much more performance than similarly-priced sedans, and its gas mileage and lack of standard anti-lock brakes make it a poor value. All in all, it offers more fun than some sedans, but we’re hoping the 2009 model will be a major improvement.

What’s New For 2008:

The GTS has been dropped, but its features are offered on the remaining trims. Tire pressure monitoring is now standard. Three trims are available: DE, ES, and Ralliart.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Galant 3 stars for dependability. Problems with the previous generation included damaged battery cables, vehicle noise, popping speakers and transmission surging. It was recalled nine times. This generation has had issues with engine noise, loose moonroof pads, transmission slippage, vehicle noise and water leaks. It was recalled once for faulty master brake cylinders. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test scores are not available. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front and “Poor” for the rear. Full side airbags are standard. ABS is included on all but the DE. The Ralliart includes traction control.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ Nice control arrangement
+ Sport options available

Cons
- Mediocre steering
- Lower-grade interior comparatively
- ABS not standard

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chrysler Sebring Sedan Touring includes standard ABS at the same price. The Honda Accord Sedan LX includes ABS and traction control and gets up to four more miles to the gallon on the highway. The Nissan Altima has ABS, and gets up to five more miles on the highway, but lacks an automatic.

What Others Are Saying:

“The new Galant is a good alternative to top-selling mid-size sedans, which is something that can be said of it for the first time.” – Chicago Sun-Times

“Other automakers (hint: certain German luxury-sedan builders) should take a long look at controls in this Mitsubishi. The large, clearly marked knobs for operating the audio and climate systems are among the easiest to use, and the most logically arranged, of any I’ve seen.” – The Dallas Morning News

“Years ago, the market decided Mitsubishi’s bread-and-butter sedan couldn’t hold a spent glow stick to the Camcordima. The market is still right; the Galant deserves its place in rental car infamy. As you will someday learn.” – The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Mitsubishi Galant at the Mitsubishi manufacturer web site.