2009 Mitsubishi Galant

Mitsubishi sells a small range of budget-friendly SUVs that have been steadily improving in the brand’s road-test scores. In the past, Mitsubishi was known for its partnership with Chrysler and its eclectic lineup. Discontinued models include the budget-friendly Mirage, sports cars like the 3000 GT, Eclipse, and Lancer Evolution, mid-priced sedans, and dedicated off-road SUVs. After struggling during the 2000s and 2010s, Mitsubishi is now part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and has benefited from access to the other alliance members’ designs and technology. The Mitsubishi Outlander, for example, is based on the Nissan Rogue. Because Mitsubishi’s lineup is a mix of newer and older designs, some older models lag behind in crash test ratings while newer ones get top scores.

The Galant of the early 2000s offered a strong 3.0-liter V6, a relatively quiet and composed ride, as well as reasonably agile handling. The front seats weren't very comfortable however, and space was tight in the rear. Traction control became standard on V6 models in 2001. In 2004, the Galant was redesigned, but it still trailed the competition. Handling wasn't agile, the four-cylinder engine was spirited but noisy, and the ride was choppy and stiff even on smooth pavement. The revised V6 was unimpressive and a wide turning circle made parking awkward. The GTS V6 model was very quick, but suffered from too much torque steer. The V6 was discontinued in 2010 and 2012 was the Galant's last model year.