In its heyday the Mitsubishi Galant wanted to betray its Japanese roots by aiming to become something like a European family sedan. Whether it was successful in accomplishing that goal is subject to anyone’s opinion but this year Mitsubishi hopes to reaffirm its presence in the midsize sedan market by launching the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant.
Features on the 2011 Galant are bundled for the top of the line SE variant. These include rear view mirrors that dim automatically, vanity mirrors with illumination, as well as a powered sunroof. A garage door opener that can be programmed is also thrown in as standard while leather upholstery, half-inch lowering, and a chrome beltline accent are offered as options.
Interior & exterior
The interior trims and accessories reflect the stubborn nature of this car to stick to designs which might have been cool some years ago but are just boring and unimpressive by today’s standards.
For instance, the silver accents on the control cluster remind one of what was the trend five years ago. Control for the stereo and climate adjustments look very dated and worse are hard to read sometimes.
Gripes for the interior don’t stop there as it is further plagued with issues like the use of low-class materials that simply don’t come near the level of sophistication and refinement being offered by some of its competitors.
Additionally, why Mitsubishi has omitted a telescoping steering wheel when this is fairly standard in its class is a mystery.
The interior is surprisingly roomy even with its size. Driver and passenger seating are also nice and comfortable. Trunk storage is decent, and its wide opening makes stowing baggage easier. Seats at the back can’t be folded down to make more room for stuffs you have so again this is a minus.
Performance
All the 2011 models have a 2.4L four cylinder engine that produces 160hp power and 157 lb-ft of torque. Fuel consumption is 24 mpg for combined city and highway driving.
The fact that Mitsubishi does not offer a V6 engine for the Galant should not be an issue as most players in the midsize sedan market are sold with a four-cylinder engine anyway. However, Mitsubishi’s engine yields 160 hp which is 15-40 horses shy when compared with some of its competitors that also sport a four-cylinder engine.
On top of that, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant has a 4-speed auto transmission when players like Kia, Honda and Ford offer five-speed, even six-speed transmissions.
This limitation is evident in the Galant’s paltry performance and fuel economy. On the road, the Galant struggles to pull its 3,400 weight. However, when it starts going the drive is smooth and responsive which is very ideal for daily commutes.
Trims
There are two trim variants: ES and SE.
The entry level midsize sedan ES boasts of 16-inch steel wheels, 6-speaker audio system with an auxiliary jack, air conditioning, all power controls, height adjustable driver seat, and a tilt-capable steering wheel.
The star is actually the SE as it has more impressive amenities like a reverse camera, premium Rockford Acoustic Design audio system that features LCD screen, Bluetooth interface, 8 speakers and 6-disc CD changer. Automatic climate control, steering wheel clad in leather, heated driver seat that can be power adjusted in 8 ways, rear view mirrors that dim automatically, and vanity mirrors with two illumination are thrown in as standards as well.
Safety & reliability
Safety features include ABS, side curtain and front side airbags, and stability control. The Galant received a “Good: rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Warranty coverage for the Galant is one of the best in the industry: five years or 60,000 miles as basic and extended 10 years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain.
Competition
Before buying the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant consider other midsize sedans in the market such as the Ford Fusion (MSRP $19,850; 22 city / 32 hwy) costs less while still providing better interior and performance; the Hyundai Sonata (MSRP $19,695; 24 city / 35 hwy) may be an even better option as it has a more comfortable and updated interior. Plus the extra warranty that you have to pay Mitsubishi for is thrown in as standard.
You can also look at the Honda Accord (MSRP $21,380; 23 city / 34 hwy), Kia Optima (MSRP $18,995; 24 city / 35 hwy), Nissan Altima (MSRP $20,410; 23 city / 32 hwy), Suzuki Kizashi (MSRP $18,999; 21 city / 31 hwy), and Mazda 6 (MSRP $20,240; 21 city / 30 hwy) for a wider choice.
Pros & Cons
All in all, the SE variant may be the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant’s saving grace for the more attractive options it offers. Generally, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant maintains a good balance between handling and ride.
The biggest flack for the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant is its underpowered engine and outdated four-speed automatic transmission. Lack-luster and cheap-looking interior as well as the inability of the rear seats to be stowed away are also cons.
Overall Rating
60 out of 100
What others say:
“The American-built Mitsubishi Galant is one of those vehicles that should have been replaced a while ago…”Car Connection
“Reasonably nimble, but Galant doesn’t control body motions as well due to suspension tuning that is soft when compared with other midsize cars.”Consumer Guide
“The Galant’s ride is a bit choppy and stiff even on smooth pavement.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“Despite this year’s added features, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant remains well behind the pack due to its relatively meager power, unimpressive cabin quality and outdated styling.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $21,899.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.7 gallons (67 liters) | MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy |
| Length: 191.1 in. (485 cm) | Width: 72.4 in. (183.8 cm) |
| Height: 57.4 in. (145.8 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3395 lbs (1540 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L SOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder | Displacement: 2378 cc |
| Horsepower: 160 HP | Max RPM: 5500 RPM |
| Torque: 157 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic Sportronic® |
| Option:Galant SE | MSRP: $24,299; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy |
