A Brief Look at the Mitsubishi Galant
The Evolution of the Mitsubishi Galant
For nearly five decades the Mitsubishi Galant has been a stalwart member of the Japanese auto industry. A mid-size sedan designed for performance, efficiency, and comfort, it has evolved through a range of generational iterations, adapting to changing times and trends while always maintaining its core values.
The 1st Generation: 1969-1973
The first generation of the Mitsubishi Galant was introduced in 1969 as a compact car. The car was initially released as a two-door hardtop coupé but later expanded to include a four-door sedans. Designed as a new flagship vehicle for the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, the Galant emerged onto the market with a unique design in a market saturated with traditional models. Mitsubishi aimed to make a splash and they succeeded.
During the first generation, the Galant was equipped with a 1.5-liter engine, which could produce up to 100 horsepower. The four-speed manual transmission was standard, and the automatic transmission was optional. This vehicle had front and rear suspensions independent of each other, which made the car more stable and comfortable to drive.
The 2nd Generation: 1973-1977
The second generation of Mitsubishi Galant was introduced in 1973 and was a reimagining of the original model. Though the car’s interior space was increased, overall design aimed to stay coherent with the previous model. The new model also introduced a wagon version for the first time. The second-generation Galants came equipped with the popular Saturn Engines by Chrysler, and had a carburetor fuel system which allowed for better fuel economy.
The 3rd Generation: 1977-1983
The third generation of the Mitsubishi Galant was introduced in 1977 with significant technological improvements. The car came with a powerful 2.0-liter engine that featured an overhead camshaft design. The new, improved engine produced up to 80 horsepower but had improved fuel economy due to the lighter engine.
The new Galant was also designed with a comfortable and spacious interior. Additional innovations that were available in the third generation include air conditioning, power windows, and even a sunroof.
The 4th Generation: 1983-1987
The fourth-generation Mitsubishi Galant was introduced in 1983, and it featured an aerodynamic redesign. The Galant was available as a five-door hatchback, coupe, and four-door sedan. The new design was not marketed in the US as heavily as other Galants were, mostly due to the increasing size of American cars at the time, making the Galant seem diminutive.
The fourth generation was equipped with a 2.0-liter engine that produced 125 horsepower; this made the model an excellent choice for efficiency and stability. The car’s design included improved suspension, allowing for smoother rides. Interior amenities included electric windows, power locks, and an AM/FM cassette player.
The 5th Generation: 1987-1992
The fifth generation of the Galant was released in 1987 with the center console designed for the driver’s benefit. The car was equipped with a new Alpha-Four engine, which was a 16 valve engine producing up to 200 horsepower. This generation was the first to feature a luxury line, the Mitsubishi Emeraude, which featured advanced suspension systems, and four-wheel steering.
During the 1990s, Mitsubishi started to think about the broader audience, and they designed a new Galant that was slightly wider and longer. The engine had both six and four cylinders and could produce up to 220 horsepower, which allowed for both speed and safety.
The Sixth Generation: 1992-1998
The sixth generation of the Galant was probably the most popular among all generations. Designed with a range of engines, including the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, and the four-speed automatic transmission. This generation was also available with the VR-4 model that can produce up to 276 horsepower.
The Galant was redesigned with a completely different look. It had a sporty, elegant look that was intended to attract young customers to the brand. The Japanese manufacturer also aimed to expand their markets in the United States and the European Union. With a slogan of “Born with Stamina, Poised for Action” the sixth-generation Galant offered a luxury feel with attention to detail.
The Seventh Generation: 1998-2003
Just a few years after the sixth-generation release, Mitsubishi released the seventh iteration of the Galant, which featured a completely new design. The seventh generation was specifically designed to meet the needs of modern customers, which is why there were three types of the engine: four-, six-, and eight-cylinder.
The seventh-generation Galant had a complete system of safety features and options like anti-lock brakes and airbags. Additionally, Bluetooth, GPS systems, and USB were all added to the seventh generation. The Galant also received a makeover with a gently curved slab-sides and a more pronounced grille.
The Eighth Generation: 2003-2009
The eighth-generation Galant was introduced in 2003, with a completely redesigned interior and a more aerodynamic shape. The interior featured a high-quality sound system, a sunroof, and a tilt-and-slide power glass. One of the most remarkable features was a four-speed automatic transmission with a manual gear selection option.
During the eighth-generation, Mitsubishi also released the Galant Ralliart version, which was designed to compete with other models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Fusion. The Ralliart version had a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing up to 258 horsepower, which could reach a top speed of 147 mph.
The Ninth Generation: 2009-2012
Mitsubishi moved away from conventional designs with its ninth-generation Galant, introducing a more stylish look that was intended to compete with other sporty models. The car came equipped with new aluminum wheels, and there was an optional touchscreen navigation system that was available.
The ninth-generation iteration was sleek and curvy. It had a new interior featuring a high-end sound system, top-of-the-line GPS systems, and a USB port. The car’s exterior was designed to be more aerodynamic, and the fourth-generation was one of the most fuel-efficient models yet.
The Tenth Generation: 2012-present
The latest generation of the Mitsubishi Galant was unveiled in 2012; it featured the latest automotive technology, including smart key technology and a backup camera. Available in SE and GT trims, this generation includes a variable valve timing engine that produces up to 160 horsepower.
Mitsubishi also designed the 2012 Galant to appeal to customers who are looking for a vehicle that is both environmentally friendly and efficient. With a fuel economy rating of up to 30 mpg on the highway, this vehicle is perfect for commuters who want a comfortable ride.
The Conclusion
When looking at the history and evolution of the Mitsubishi Galant, it is impossible to deny its impact upon the automotive industry. Over nearly half a century, the Galant has emerged into the market as a dependable car that is suitable for all kinds of customers. The Galant feature list has grown from a simple compact car into a luxurious vehicle that is equipped with advanced features and systems. The Galant continues to evolve and it will be exciting to see how Mitsubishi continues to change and advance this iconic brand in the years to come.