The Mitsubishi Galant has been offered for decades as a solution to the family sedan question. The 2004 model year marked the beginning of the current generation for this car. With the 2004 model, Mitsubishi made an attempt to bring the Galant into modern times with more power and a larger body design. All of these things were done to better attract the North American market, where bigger is always better. Some of the models lack safety features and the lower trim levels powertrain isn’t all that impressive. The upper trim levels offer more in the way of comfort and sophistication.
The Range
Body Styles: sedan
Engines: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 3.8-liter V-6
Transmissions: four-speed automatic
Models: Mitsubishi Galant DE, Mitsubishi Galant ES, Mitsubishi Galant LS V6, Mitsubishi Galant GTS V6
What's New
The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant saw some changes for the model year. The company made an attempt to make this series more appealing to the North American market. What that means is larger body design, more power under the hood, and a longer list of standard features.
Exterior
The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant is an attractive sedan with a lot of external features and accents to gain it some attention on the road. The front end of the sedan is uniquely designed with square headlights and a split designed grille. The Mitsubishi corporate logo is easily seen in the center of the grille. On all of the trim levels, the bumpers have been painted to match the rest of the body. This detail gives the Galant an elegant, put together look. Additionally, the Galant series was offered in a long list of color options. Machine Green Metallic, Torched Steel Blue Pearl, and Dover White Pearl are just a few choices.
Interior
The Galant made a name for itself thanks to its comfortable and well equipped cabin. The lower trim levels offered plenty in the way of comfort and convenience with cloth bucket seats and folding rear seats complete with an armrest in the center. Power windows, door locks, and mirrors are standard on all models as well. Air conditioning and a four speaker audio system are offered on the Galant too.
The upper trim levels provide a bit more in terms of luxury and comfort. These cars are outfitted with leather bucket seats in the front as well as a lumber support system and height adjustable seat for the driver. Climate control and controls for the audio system and cruise control can be found on the steering wheel. Leather trim adds elegance to the cabin on the shift knob and steering wheel. Storage is located in the center console, overhead storage compartment, and front door pockets.
Performance & Handling
The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant isn’t the most powerful or fuel efficient sedan available in its class, but it is a relatively fun to drive, reliable car for the family. In most cases, the smaller 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine offered in the DE and ES trim levels is competent. If real power is the objective, the larger, more aggressive V-6 motor offered in the GTS and LS trim levels is a better fit. The Galant’s V-6 engine offers 230 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, the only transmission offered for this model year, the four-speed automatic, doesn’t do much to enhance the performance of the V-6.
Safety
Safety features are lacking a bit especially in the lower trim levels of the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant. Those models aren’t equipped with anti-lock brakes or side airbags. The higher trim levels, such as the GTS V6, have more features offered standard. On this model, anti-lock brakes, dual front side mounted airbags, and traction control are standard. Additional safety features include child seat anchors and rear door child safety locks. In the front of the cabin, height adjustable headrests are offered. In the rear of the cabin, the headrests are integrated into the seat.
EPA Fuel Economy
Mitsubishi Galant, 2.4-liter four-cylinder: 20/27 mpg city/highway
Mitsubishi Galant, 3.8-liter V-6: 17/25 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Build quality is solid
- Powerful V-6 engine
- Lots of room in the back seat
- Stylish, attractive cabin
- Nice balance between ride quality and handling
You Won't Like
- Some cabin materials look and feel cheap
- No manual transmission available
- Does not have side airbags
- Limited trunk room
- Rear seat does not fold
- Cargo space in general limited
- Awkward dash and control layout
Sum Up
Uniquely styled, roomy enough for four passengers, this car provides a fun driving experience.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Accord
- Nissan Altima
- Toyota Camry