2004 MITSUBISHI GALANT NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant?
The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant transforms from an also-ran to a contender in the midsize sedan marketplace thanks to a complete redesign that resolves many of the old model’s shortcomings. New engines make more power, and bigger dimensions inside and out bring the Mitsubishi Galant up to the standards of the class. Two four-cylinder and two V6 models are available, ranging from the standard 160-horsepower Galant DE to the sporty 230-horsepower Galant GTZ.

Advantages of the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant:

• Undercuts the price of comparably-equipped competitors
• Stout inline four and V6 engines
• Rear seat room and comfort
• Seven-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Objections to the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant:

• Stability control and side curtain airbags are missing from the features roster
• No manual transmission for sporty GTZ model

Editor's Advice:
Mitsubishi introduces a new Galant, its bread-and-butter family sedan, for 2004. Previous versions were sold largely on the strength of styling and price, not to mention low-interest rate or big rebate deals that delayed payments for up to a year, allowing Mitsubishi to move middle-of-the-road product in a class dominated by the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Mass appeal eluded the Mitsubishi Galant due to meager rear seat space, low levels of refinement and engines that were not up to par with competitors. The redesigned 2004 Mitsubishi Galant addresses some of these problems. It’s a roomy car, motors that make class-acceptable horsepower and torque power it, and the refinement levels have been kicked up a notch. Four trim levels are available: the base DE comes with power windows, locks and mirrors; keyless entry; and a 160-hp four-cylinder engine matched to an automatic transmission. Next up is the ES, which offers an upscale mesh grille, cruise control and an upgraded stereo. Those who want V6 power will have to choose the LS, which comes with ABS and traction control, while top-level GTS gets a performance-tuned suspension, a leather interior, a power sunroof and side-impact airbags. The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant’s handling, road manners and powerplants are commendable, but key features such as stability control and side curtain airbags were left off the equipment roster to keep pricing competitive. Maybe Mitsubishi should have been more concerned about making the car competitive, not the price. Looks like the Accord and Camry may continue to set the standard.