New 2009 Mitsubishi Galant Performance Review [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Performance - What the Auto Press Says
The Mitsubishi Galant is great for around-town driving, but leaves the sporty driving to the Ralliart trim. Highlights are the Sportronic Automatic Transmission and the V6 engine's torque. Lowlights are engine power (from the base four-cylinder) and noise.
- "The Galant's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is adequate for around-town driving. … The V6 is best suited to those who demand extra power, the kind required for quicker acceleration when merging or passing." -- Kelley Blue Book
- "Galant performs as if a sporty Eclipse, only with two more doors." -- Chicago Tribune
- "The Ralliart is still completely livable as a real car." -- Automobile Magazine
Acceleration and Power
For 2009, the Mitsubishi Galant still offers either a 2.4-liter four cylinder or a 3.8-liter V6, but horsepower has taken a boost, to 168 and 220 horsepower, respectively. Reviewers say overall power and acceleration is good, but point out noticeable engine noise. They approve of the Galant's transmissions, especially the four-speed Sportronic.
- "Great engines speak with sounds that suggest flat-out acceleration or dependable long-distance cruising at Autobahn speeds. The Galant's V-6 is more like a long-lost aunt who can't stop talking. A pleasant V-6 gurgle, but one that's always there, further muddling perceptions of the Galant's desired image." -- About.com
- "The V6 models deliver plenty of torque for passing and merging on the highway." -- Edmunds
- "The hot Galant is plenty quick, particularly once you've gotten moving, although the five-speed automatic can be a bit wishy-washy at times." -- Automobile Magazine
Fuel Economy
Reviewers are almost universally disappointed with the Galant's gas mileage. Although the 2009 model does not yet have EPA ratings, the 2008 model should achieve 17/25 mpg city/highway with the 3.8-liter engine, and 20/27 mpg city/highway featuring the four-cylinder.
- "No 'hey look at me' mileage." -- Chicago Tribune
- "More power often means taking a hit in gas mileage, and the Ralliart is no exception: Its fuel economy is among the worst in its segment. Adding insult to injury, Mitsubishi says premium fuel is required. Most competitors -- including some that are quicker -- run on regular." -- Cars.com
Handling and Braking
Reviewers don't agree on the overall handling performance of the Galant, but reviews are more favorable when they test drove the high-end Ralliart.
- Following a test drive with the Ralliart, Motor Week said, "It is in handling where this car sparkles brightest." -- Motor Week
- Disagreeing, Cars.com notes, "Handling is a mixed bag. The steering feels as vague as any family car's, and I wish there were more feedback, but the chassis is quite composed." -- Cars.com
- "Steering and braking are solid, though neither makes the car stand out in any substantial way." -- AutoWeek
- "The brakes are adequate in routine use, but simulated panic stops revealed spongy pedal action and only average stopping distances." -- Consumer Guide
