1999 Mitsubishi Galant Review

The all-new '99 Galant lineup features BMW-like styling, a new V6 engine option, more standard equipment and a GTZ model with a sport-tuned suspension.

Mitsubishi has done a lot of work during the past year to bring its bread-and-butter vehicle up to snuff with hot-selling competitors that have been beating it in the sales game during the past few years. Under pressure from Japan to increase volume and profitability, Mitsubishi's U.S. branch has a lot riding on this new Galant. The car's improvements, especially the addition of a V6 engine, appear to be exactly what the doctor called for, yet only time will tell if consumers will welcome the new sedan with open arms-and wallets.

Mitsubishi has tailored its 1999 Galant to appease power-hungry Americans by offering a choice of two engines: a high-torque four-cylinder or a 195-horsepower V6. The 2.4-liter, 16-valve SOHC four-cylinder engine produces more horsepower (145) and torque (155 foot-pounds) than previous models and reduces noise and vibration. The 3.0-liter 24-valve SOHC V6 makes 205 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,500 rpm, making it competitive with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Mazda 626, yet Mitsubishi is at the same time touting the Galant as an alternative choice outside the mainstream genre.

Utilizing very few carryover parts from last year, the new Galant comes in four configurations: the economical DE, the middle-of-the-road ES, the luxury LS and the new performance-oriented GTZ. Standard on all four trim levels are an automatic transmission (stick shifts will be available on four-cylinder models in the fall), A/C, power package, variable intermittent wipers, AM/FM/cassette stereo, auxiliary power outlet, tinted glass and dual trip odometers. The Galant ES seems to be the best value in the group, with a price tag that is $460 less than last year's ES, and a host of new standard equipment including fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear stabilizer bar.

Additional safety features like front seat-mounted side airbags are available on the Galant-the first Mitsubishi vehicle to offer them. Automatic headlight shut-off and a collapsible steering column also provide a more secure ride.

Inside, Mitsubishi placed the stereo unit above the automatic climate controls for easier driver access and made sure the console-mounted cupholders don't block any part of the dashboard. The front center armrest also folds rearward to serve as a cupholder for those in the backseat.

The all-new GTZ model gets a V6 engine, color-keyed grille, rear spoiler, leather trim and black-on-white instrument gauges. These refinements, coupled with the sport-tuned suspension, make GTZ the high-end Galant for those seeking crisp handling and the most fun-to-drive ride in the line.