Preview: 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
03/09/1998
Shahed Hussain
The Galant has been a virtual unknown in the overcrowded midsize sedan market. Perhaps the lack of success could be attributed to a missing V-6 or maybe insufficient marketing. No matter, because the new Galant takes care of such criticisms.
The exterior is where the Galant stands out from its competitors. Unlike the relatively anonymous styling of the Accord and Camry, Mitsubishi has boldly gone where it has been before… by taking a page from BMWs styling handbook. Like the previous generation Diamante, which resembled a 4-door version of the 635CSi, the new Galant's styling seems inspired by the latest 5-series BMWs. This is a compliment because the crisp lines and angular profile highlight the attractive styling of this car. With a Cd of 0.29, the shape certainly doesn't detract from the aerodynamics.
Mitsubishi designed the Galant at its styling center in southern California, which may explain its bolder styling. The Galant will be manufactured in Normal, Illinois, alongside the Eclipse. The 2.4L 16V 4-cylinder remains as the standard powerplant. New this year is the 3.0L 24V V-6, which is shared with the more upscale Diamante. No power output figures are available for either engine, but Mitsubishi claims that it will equal or better class rivals. A new 4-speed automatic provides smooth shifts. The suspension is the expected MacPherson struts in front, with a multilink setup for the rear. A more aggressively tuned suspension with 16-inch wheels and a spoiler will be available in a sport model of the Galant.
The redesigned interior of the Galant offers standard cloth and optional leather seats. A leather wrapped steering wheel and woodgrain trim are standard as well. The dashboard is now lower to improve outward visibility. Air conditioning, power windows and locks, and keyless entry are included in every Galant. To satisfy the safety-conscious, front side airbags are optional.
Pricing has not been announced, but considering the cutthroat competition, it should be in the same range as a comparably equipped Accord or Camry. The 1999 Mitsubishi Galant is one vehicle we are looking forward to driving.