Mitsubishi has overhauled the looks on its midsize Galant sedan. Coupled with more-than-capable performance, this car is definitely good to go, if you know what I mean.
Already in dealerships, the 2009 Galant received more than a freshening, more than a facelift. The Galant is totally restyled from front to rear. Designers put new 17-inch wheels on the Galant, gave it a rakish new hood and grille with lower air intake. The back end has a wider rear glass, a new deck lid with stop lamp center-mounted, as well as new taillamps and bumpers.
The 2009 version comes in four trims: ES, Sport Edition, Sport V-6 and the top-of-the-line Ralliart. Mitsubishi also provides shoppers considering the Galant the option of three performance levels. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generates 160 horsepower. This 16-valve engine is mated to a four-speed automatic.
The second and third performance levels on the Galant come from the same 24-valve, 3.8-liter V-6 engine, but each is tuned uniquely to deliver different levels of power. The top line Ralliart is rated at 258 horsepower, while the same 3.8-liter V-6 on the Sport V-6 model is tuned to produce 230 horsepower. Both models are equipped with a five-speed automatic with Sportronic.
What's attractive about the Galant is that this midsize sedan is well equipped with features that are optional on other models. All 2009 Galants come with head curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual-stage front airbags, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and traction control.
Another plus to consider for the consumer looking for a midsize family sedan is that the new value model, the Sport Edition, comes standard with a power glass sunroof, heated seats and sideview mirrors, fog lights, sport-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, among many other nice comfort and convenience features. The Sport Edition four-cylinder Galant is priced at $21,099.
EPA fuel economy: City: 16, Highway: 25
Base MSRP: $27,299
