The 2009 Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize car that competes with the likes of the Nissan Maxima, the Hyundai Sonata, the Toyota Camry and the Mazda MAZDA6. For the new model year, the Galant gets a needed facelift, freshening its styling considerably. A couple of new models also debut in the lineup. For 2009, the Galant will come in four different flavors – the ES, the Ralliart, the Sport Edition and the Sport V6.
The ES and Sport Edition make use of a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 160 hp, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Ralliart uses a 3.8-liter V6 that puts out 258 hp, while the Sport V6 uses a 3.8-liter V6 putting out 230 hp. The V6 models both make use of a 5-speed automatic transmission. The ES and Sport Edition have similar body styles, while the Sport V6 is a bit different. The Ralliart, on the other hand, stands apart from the crowd to a great extent, with a unique body style and other additions, such as a unique suspension.
2009 Mitsubishi Galant Performance
Both of the 4-cylinder Galants have decent power off the starting line, as well as decent performance during highway driving. The Sport V6 offers even more power and performance in all situations. Of course, the Ralliart steals the show, providing tremendous response times and excellent acceleration whether from a stop or during highway passing. The automatic transmissions used in all models are quite well engineered, offering smooth shifting and no lag during downshifts.
Fuel economy varies greatly between the different engines and Galant models. For instance, the ES is capable of averaging just over 24 mpg, while the Ralliart comes in around 18 mpg. The Sport V6 has similar ratings to the Ralliart, as well. The ES and Sport Edition handle competently on the road, but the Ralliart once again takes the prize. It offers confident steering that is nicely weighted, with almost no lean experienced during turns. Braking is adequate on all models, but nothing to brag about.
For ride quality, the Galant gets mixed scores. The ES and Sport Edition are mild, offering a decent ride, while the Ralliart is excellent. The Sport V6 version comes in between the two extremes. It should be noted that the Ralliart does suffer from considerable wind noise, while other models are not so affected. Road noise and tire noise are also more pronounced with the Ralliart and no Galant comes close to challenging some of the other options in the class.
2009 Mitsubishi Galant Interior
As with other models from Mitsubishi, the interior of the Galant is somewhat lackluster. The materials used are midgrade, with no high-end touches to be found. That said, the controls are laid out quite nicely and can be easily accessed from the driver's position. If you choose to add the navigation system, be prepared for a few controls to be complicated. In addition, the navigation screen can be hard to read in certain lighting conditions.
The front seats of all Galant models are room, providing plenty of space for tall people. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing plenty of side and lumbar support for long drives. Visibility to the rear suffers because of the Galant's design, but it is fine from the front and sides. The rear seats of the Galant offer enough legroom, but the sloping roof cuts out some headroom that would be nice to have for tall passengers. The seats are comfortable, but do not offer the same amount of support found in the front seats.
Cargo room in the Galant is an interesting conundrum. The trunk is quite large, roomy even. However, the high lift requirements limit the usefulness of the trunk, while the rear seats do not fold back. The center slot is useful, but the amount of cargo is still limited. Cabin storage is adequate, at best, with only a few built in storage areas.
2009 Mitsubishi Galant Safety Features
Safety features found on the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant include daytime running lights, dual front airbags, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, a tire pressure monitor, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, an antitheft system and an emergency trunk lid release inside the trunk.
Summary
The 2009 Mitsubishi Galant is available in a bewildering range of models. However, the V6 options are better choices than the 4-cylinder models. The Ralliart and the Sport V6 offer plenty of power and performance. However, if fuel economy is your thing, then the Sport Edition is the best choice.