automobile
A car or automobile is a motor vehicle with Wheel, wheels. Most definitions of ''cars'' say that they run primarily on roads, Car seat, seat one to eight people, have four wheels, and mainly transport private transport#Personal transport, pe ...
which was produced by Japanese manufacturer
Mitsubishi
The is a group of autonomous Japanese multinational companies in a variety of industries.
Founded by Yatarō Iwasaki in 1870, the Mitsubishi Group historically descended from the Mitsubishi zaibatsu, a unified company which existed from 1870 ...
from 1969 until 2012. The model name was derived from the French word ''galant'', meaning "chivalrous". There have been nine distinct generations with total cumulative sales exceeding five million units.History and profile of the Mitsubishi Galant , Mitsubishi Motors South Africa website It began as a
compact
Compact as used in politics may refer broadly to a pact or treaty; in more specific cases it may refer to:
* Interstate compact
* Blood compact, an ancient ritual of the Philippines
* Compact government, a type of colonial rule utilized in British ...
sedan, but over the course of its life evolved into a
mid-size car
Mid-size—also known as intermediate—is a vehicle size class which originated in the United States and is used for cars larger than compact cars and smaller than full-size cars. "Large family car" is a UK term and a part of the D-segment in t ...
. Initial production was based in Japan, but from 1994 the American market was served by vehicles assembled at the former
Diamond-Star Motors
Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) was an automobile-manufacturing joint venture between the Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC).
(DSM) facility in
Normal, Illinois
Normal is a town in McLean County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town's population was 52,736. Normal is the smaller of two principal municipalities of the Bloomington–Normal metropolitan area, and Illinois' seventh most ...
.
__TOC__
First generation (A50; 1969)
The first generation of the car, initially known as the Colt Galant, was released in December 1969 at a new Mitsubishi Japanese dealership called '' Galant Shop''. The design was dubbed "Dynawedge" by Mitsubishi, referring to the influence of aerodynamics on the silhouette. Three models were available, powered by the new 'Saturn' engine in 1.3- (''AI'' model) or 1.5-liter (''AII'' and ''AIII'') configurations. 1.4- and 1.6-liter versions (14L and 16L) replaced these in September 1971. A larger 1.7-liter arrived for the top GS model in January 1973. Initially only available as a four-door sedan, five-door estate and two-door
hardtop
A hardtop is a rigid form of automobile roof, which for modern cars is typically constructed from metal. A hardtop roof can be either fixed (i.e. not removable), Convertible#Detachable hardtop, detachable for separate storing or retractable ha ...
(A53) variants were added in 1970. The hardtop was Mitsubishi's first production passenger car with full side windows and no side pillars. In March 1973, with only two months of production left, the cleaner "MCA-II" version of the 1.6 arrived. With it was three horsepower down on the regular version.
The Galant was offered as a competitor to the
Toyota Corona
The is an automobile manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota across eleven generations between 1957 and 2001. On launch, the Corona was Toyota's next to highest product in their range, just below the Crown. The Corona was marketed i ...
,
Nissan Bluebird
The is a compact car with a model name introduced in 1957. It has been Nissan's most internationally recognized sedan, in multiple body styles, and is known for its dependability and durability. The Bluebird originated from Nissan's first vehic ...
,
Honda Accord
The , also known as the in Japan and China for certain generations, is a series of cars manufactured by Honda since 1976, best known for its four-door sedan variant, which has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States since 1989. ...
, and
Mazda Capella
The Mazda Capella, also known as the 626 in North America and Southeast Asia, is a mid-size car that was manufactured by Mazda from 1970 until 2002. Sold in the Japanese domestic market under the Capella name, the vehicle was also commonly known ...
. It became Mitsubishi's first car to be sold in the United States in 1971 when the
Chrysler Corporation
Stellantis North America (officially FCA US and formerly Chrysler ()) is one of the " Big Three" automobile manufacturers in the United States, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is the American subsidiary of the multinational automoti ...
, the company's new partner and stakeholder, began importing the car as the
Dodge Colt
The Dodge Colt is a subcompact car that was manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by Dodge for model years 1971 to 1994 as captive imports. Rebadged variants include the Plymouth Champ and Plymouth Colt, both were marketed by Plymouth. ...
. It was also produced by
Chrysler Australia
Fiat Chrysler Australia, officially FCA Australia, is the official Stellantis subsidiary in that country, operating as distributor of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Fiat vehicles. However, there had previously been a "Chrysler Au ...
and sold alongside the larger
Chrysler Valiant
Stellantis North America (officially FCA US and formerly Chrysler ()) is one of the " Big Three" automobile manufacturers in the United States, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is the American subsidiary of the multinational automotiv ...
models as the Chrysler Valiant Galant. In South Africa, the A53 Colt Galant arrived in late 1972 as the Dodge Colt 1600 GS (AY series). The car had already been rallied there, in 1300 and 1600 forms, and only the Hardtop GS version was sold to capitalize on the car's sporty image. Gross power claimed was at 6700 rpm and the car was fitted with
Rostyle wheel
Rostyle wheels are a notable design of automobile wheels of American origin but made under licence by the British firm of Rubery Owen - hence RO-Style - The Rostyle wheel was especially popular during the 1960s and 1970s.
The wheels had a charac ...
s as also used on locally assembled Hillman Vogues.
From 1970, a fastback coupé model was developed, the Galant GTO. Fashioned after contemporary American
muscle car
Muscle car is a description according to ''Merriam-Webster Dictionary'' that came to use in 1966 for "a group of American-made two-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving." The '' Britannica Dictionary'' ...
s, the
hardtop
A hardtop is a rigid form of automobile roof, which for modern cars is typically constructed from metal. A hardtop roof can be either fixed (i.e. not removable), Convertible#Detachable hardtop, detachable for separate storing or retractable ha ...
GTO was available with a choice of two "Saturn" engines and the 2-litre ''Astron 80'', and was available until 1975. The nameplate was sufficiently highly regarded in Japan for it to be resurrected for the 1990
Mitsubishi GTO
The Mitsubishi GTO is a front-engine, all-wheel/front-wheel drive grand touring/sports car manufactured and marketed by Mitsubishi from 1990 until 2000 over three different generations. Manufactured in a three-door hatchback coupé body style in ...
coupé.
A third, more compact
coupé
A coupe or coupé (, ) is a passenger car with a sloping or truncated rear roofline and two doors.
The term ''coupé'' was first applied to horse-drawn carriages for two passengers without rear-facing seats. It comes from the French past parti ...
was introduced on a chassis shortened by 12 cm in 1971, the Galant FTO. Powered by the 4G41 1.4 L engine, it too would leave a legacy for the company to return to in the 1990s with the
Mitsubishi FTO
The Mitsubishi FTO is a front engined, front-wheel drive coupe produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 1994 and 2000. It was originally planned to be exclusively for the Japanese domestic market, although its popularity as a grey market import to th ...
.
New Zealand
Although the earlier Colt had been imported in limited numbers, this generation, in 1.6-litre coupé form only, was the first model to establish the Mitsubishi brand in New Zealand from 1971 when newly appointed distributor Todd Motors, which also imported and assembled Chrysler and Hillman, started selling a small number of Japanese-assembled cars to supplement its mainstream Hillman Avenger and Hunter models.
The coupé was assembled in New Zealand from 1972, firstly at Todd's Petone factory, on the Avenger/Hunter line and, from 1974, at the brand-new purpose-built factory in Porirua (closed in 1998).
File:Mitsubishi Colt Galant AII.jpg, 1969 Mitsubishi Colt Galant A II Custom L sedan
File:1971 Mitsubishi Colt Galant Estate V 16L GL.jpg, 1971 Mitsubishi Colt Galant Estate V 16L GL
File:1974 Chrysler Valiant Galant (GB) GL sedan (2015-06-08) 01.jpg, Chrysler Valiant Galant (GB) GL (Australia)
File:Mitsubishi Colt Galant Hardtop 16L rear.jpg, Mitsubishi Colt Galant Hardtop 16L
Second generation (A112, A114, A115; 1973)
The second generation Mitsubishi Colt Galant A11* series was built from 1973 and received a replacement in 1976. Introduced on 24 May 1973 (on sale 1 June) in the Japanese domestic market, the second generation Galant was more widely exported as Mitsubishi's ambitions grew. It was again sold by Chrysler in many different guises; as the Dodge Colt in the United States, as the Plymouth Colt and Plymouth Cricket in Canada (from 1974), as the Chrysler Valiant Galant and as the Chrysler Galant in Australia, and in Europe as the Colt Galant. Transmissions were now all floor mounted and include a four-speed manual and a five-speed unit for sportier models. A three-speed automatic transmission was also available. The smaller 1600 engine was also available in the cleaner " MCA-II" version right from 1973, a model which met Japan's 1975 emissions standards. This version was marginally less powerful, with rather than the engine seen in the previous model.
This new Galant model was more curvaceous, influenced by contemporary "
coke bottle styling
Coke bottle styling is an automotive body design with a narrow center surrounded by flaring fenders which bears a general resemblance to a Coca-Cola classic glass contour bottle design. It was introduced by industrial designer Raymond Loewy on ...
", and featured a range of larger 'Astron' engines developing up to 125 PS in 2000 cc form to complement the 'Saturn' units. During the second generation, the first Astron 80 engines were introduced in some markets using Mitsubishi's newly developed "Silent Shaft" balance shaft technology for reduced vibration and noise. Body styles remained the same as the first generation Colt Galants offered in sedan, wagon, pillar-less two-door hardtop coupé with the addition of a fixed post coupé for some markets. New models were added to the line up, including GL-II, SL-5, GT and GS-II. The Estate (A112V, sold as a commercial vehicle in Japan) was only available with the 100 PS 1600 engine, in Custom, GL, or SL-5 (with a five-speed manual transmission). It had vestigial wood panelling, featuring a narrow strip on the tailgate only.
In New Zealand the hardtop, now with an 1855 cc engine was again assembled by Todd Motors at Porirua. The sedan was not offered as Todd was planning to assemble the larger Galant Sigma sedan and wagon range from late 1977 and they were still importing the British Avenger and Hunter models.
In South Africa, the Dodge Colt 1600 GS arrived in late 1975 (YB series) to replace the earlier AY. Aside from the new body, with wider wheels and improved handling, it also benefitted from a new five-speed gearbox. In August 1976, the name was changed to Chrysler Colt, and the new GS II received a 2.0-liter engine with . The 1600 also became available in less sporty GL trim, and a set of four-door models complemented the earlier hardtop. This new range signalled a move away from British and Australian sourced Chrysler products, with the four-door replacing the locally built Chrysler Vogue. Only three months later, Chrysler South Africa ceased operations. Mitsubishi production was continued by the new
Sigma Motor Corporation
The Sigma Motor Corporation was a South African motor vehicle assembler and distributor. It operated under the Sigma name until 1985 and was based in Silverton, Pretoria. Among the vehicles sold were various models of Mazda, Mitsubishi, Peugeot a ...
.
Third generation (A120/A130; 1976)
The third generation of the car was introduced in 1976, and was known as Galant Σ (Sigma). In many export markets the car was simply known as the Galant. At that time, the
Dodge Colt
The Dodge Colt is a subcompact car that was manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by Dodge for model years 1971 to 1994 as captive imports. Rebadged variants include the Plymouth Champ and Plymouth Colt, both were marketed by Plymouth. ...
in America was actually a
Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer is an automobile produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors since 1973.
The Lancer has been marketed as the Colt Lancer, Dodge Colt, Plymouth Colt, Chrysler Valiant Lancer, Chrysler Lancer, Eagle Summit, Hin ...
, not the Galant anymore, but nonetheless the Galant
Wagon
A wagon or waggon is a heavy four-wheeled vehicle pulled by draught animals or on occasion by humans, used for transporting goods, commodities, agricultural materials, supplies and sometimes people.
Wagons are immediately distinguished from ...
variant was sold with the Dodge Colt label in the US and Canada. In Australia, where the car was made locally at Chrysler's
Clovelly Park
Clovelly Park is an inner southern suburb of Adelaide in the local government area of the City of Marion. Before becoming an 'advanced' suburb, it was a farm and vineyard. The suburb is bordered by Daws Road to the north, South Road to the eas ...
plant, it was marketed as the
Chrysler Sigma
The Chrysler Sigma is a version of the Mitsubishi Galant automobile that was built by Chrysler Australia in Adelaide, South Australia from 1977. When Mitsubishi Motors Australia (MMAL) took over Chrysler Australia's manufacturing facilities in 19 ...
and, after the 1980 buyout of
Chrysler Australia
Fiat Chrysler Australia, officially FCA Australia, is the official Stellantis subsidiary in that country, operating as distributor of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Fiat vehicles. However, there had previously been a "Chrysler Au ...
by Mitsubishi, as the Mitsubishi Sigma. Australian content was quite high and included a locally-made 2.6-litre 'Astron' four (introduced 1980) which, in December 1985, replaced the 1.6, 1.85 and two-litre engines used in other export markets.
The wagon version was introduced in 1977, a little while after the sedans. A new two-door coupé was introduced in 1976 to replace the Galant GTO. It was known in Japan as the Galant Λ (Lambda). The coupé was sold in the United States between 1978 and 1980 as the
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger is the name of three different generations of automobiles (two of those being pony cars) produced by American automobile manufacturer Dodge. However, the first use of the Challenger name by Dodge was in 1959 for marketing a ...
and
Plymouth Sapporo
Plymouth () is a port city and unitary authority in South West England. It is located on the south coast of Devon, approximately south-west of Exeter and south-west of London. It is bordered by Cornwall to the west and south-west.
Plymouth' ...
. In Australia the Lambda was marketed initially as the Chrysler Sigma Scorpion and latter as the Mitsubishi Scorpion.
Mitsubishi introduced the '' MCA-Jet'' engine for Japan and other emissions-controlled markets with its latest Galant. This incorporated the "Jet Valve", a secondary intake valve which improved emissions without necessitating the need for a completely redesigned
cylinder head
In an internal combustion engine, the cylinder head (often abbreviated to simply "head") sits above the cylinders and forms the roof of the combustion chamber.
In sidevalve engines, the head is a simple sheet of metal; whereas in more modern ov ...
. In 1978, Mitsubishi in Japan established a dedicated dealership sales channel called ( ja, Galant Restaurant) to sell the Galant and other selected vehicles. After late 1977 the 1850 variant was discontinued, as Mitsubishi focussed their efforts on making the 1600 and the 2000 engines pass the new, stricter emissions standards.
In Japan, the Galant range received a new variant in March 1978, known as Galant Sigma Eterna. This model has single rectangular headlights and different taillights. This model also sold as facelift model for selected markets in Europe, New Zealand and South America. Seven months later the twin round headlights front design was replaced with one featuring twin square headlights and also new taillights. Models with engines which passed the new 1978 standards changed from the A120 to the A130 range. Mitsubishi had limited resources, and the large choice of engines for the Galant lineup was reduced to one 1.6 and one 2.0, with , at the beginning of the 1979 model year.
Todd Motors initially assembled 1.6 GL, 1.85 GLX and two-litre GLS sedan models for New Zealand, with the GLS getting a five-speed manual transmission as standard with three-speed auto optional. These were the first NZ-assembled Mitsubishis to have rear screen demisters as standard. Early cars had conventional rod-suspended headliners developed locally to meet local content rules but these were notorious for collapsing on to the passengers' heads and were quickly replaced by newly developed, glued-in moulded foam liners. The range was later revised to add the wagon and drop the 1.85-litre engine.
The third generation Galant was the recipient of the Car of the Year award in South Africa in 1977. In South Africa, where it was built by the
Sigma Motor Corporation
The Sigma Motor Corporation was a South African motor vehicle assembler and distributor. It operated under the Sigma name until 1985 and was based in Silverton, Pretoria. Among the vehicles sold were various models of Mazda, Mitsubishi, Peugeot a ...
, it was sold as the Colt Galant. Originally sold with the 1.6- and the 2.0-liter engines, the automatic-only 2.6-liter engine arrived in the middle of 1979 and was developed locally. The 2.6 arrived elsewhere only later. Mid-1979 was also when the facelifted (square headlights) model appeared in South Africa, with new "low-inertia" engines. Power output for the 2.0-liter remained at , but period testers felt it more powerful than the previous version.
Fourth generation (A160; 1980)
Mitsubishi's fourth iteration of the Galant Σ/Eterna Σ debuted many new innovations for Mitsubishi. The car was sold as the Mitsubishi Galant in most export markets, although in both Australia and New Zealand it was known as the Mitsubishi Sigma. The fourth generation sedan and coupé were both slightly larger than the third generation cars. Additional emphasis was given to
ergonomics
Human factors and ergonomics (commonly referred to as human factors) is the application of psychological and physiological principles to the engineering and design of products, processes, and systems. Four primary goals of human factors learnin ...
,
aerodynamics
Aerodynamics, from grc, ἀήρ ''aero'' (air) + grc, δυναμική (dynamics), is the study of the motion of air, particularly when affected by a solid object, such as an airplane wing. It involves topics covered in the field of fluid dyn ...
, and safety. Shoulder room, leg room, and head space were all increased, and the trunk was slightly enlarged for more luggage capacity. The interior was made quieter with additional carpeting and other
acoustic dampening Acoustic quieting is the process of making machinery quieter by damping vibrations to prevent them from reaching the observer. Machinery vibrates, causing sound waves in air, hydroacoustic waves in water, and mechanical stresses in solid matter. Qu ...
materials and a double-thickness front bulkhead. The wagon version was also changed, although from the firewall back the vehicle remained the same as the previous version.
Their new 'Sirius' engine was offered in
turbocharged
In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (often called a turbo) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake gas, forcing more air into the engine in order to pro ...
form for performance enthusiasts in some markets, with for Japanese market cars and for those export markets unencumbered by strict emissions rules. A new electronic fuel injection system was introduced on some versions of the gasoline Astron engine. For economy, an 'Astron' 4D55, the first
turbodiesel
The term turbo-diesel, also written as turbodiesel and turbo diesel, refers to any diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger. As with other engine types, turbocharging a diesel engine can significantly increase its efficiency and power output, ...
engine in a Japanese passenger car, was also offered. Unusually, the fourth Galant was never offered with a naturally aspirated diesel engine. The 2.3 Turbo D has , enough to be considered "sporty" at the time, and was first shown at the 1980
Paris Motor Show
The Paris Motor Show (french: Mondial de l'Automobile) is a biennial auto show in Paris. Held during October, it is one of the most important auto shows, often with many new production automobile and concept car debuts. The show presently take ...
. The diesel had some initial reliability issues; a redesigned cylinder head which appeared in 1982 took care of the problems. This model proved very popular in some markets, such as the BeNeLux countries, where it helped establish Mitsubishi in general and the Galant in particular.
For the second generation in a row Mitsubishi could claim to be building an award-winning car, as this was chosen as Car of the Year in New Zealand in 1981. The cars sold there were again locally assembled with 1.6 and two-litre engines, and a choice of transmissions and trim. As elsewhere, the wagon versions carried over the old body style with a new nose and interior. Production of the wagon version continued in Australia until 1987 when it was replaced by the new Magna.
From 1982 to 1983, some of the Australian Sigmas, which had the carried-over 2.0 or 2.6-litre locally made
inline-four engine
A straight-four engine (also called an inline-four) is a four-cylinder piston engine where cylinders are arranged in a line along a common crankshaft.
The vast majority of automotive four-cylinder engines use a straight-four layout (with the ...
, were exported to the United Kingdom with the Lonsdale badge, in en effort at circumventing the voluntary import quota restrictions adopted by Japanese manufacturers. However the car was unsuccessful, and for 1983 and 1984 it carried Mitsubishi Sigma badges in the UK before imports were finally discontinued.
The two door coupé was also redesigned for 1980 and was sold through 1983. While continuing with the Galant Λ/Eterna Λ label for the domestic Japanese market, the fourth generation was known as the
Mitsubishi Scorpion
Scorpions are predatory arachnids of the order Scorpiones. They have eight legs and are easily recognized by a pair of grasping pincers and a narrow, segmented tail, often carried in a characteristic forward curve over the back and always en ...
in Australia, and the
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger is the name of three different generations of automobiles (two of those being pony cars) produced by American automobile manufacturer Dodge. However, the first use of the Challenger name by Dodge was in 1959 for marketing a ...
and
Plymouth Sapporo
Plymouth () is a port city and unitary authority in South West England. It is located on the south coast of Devon, approximately south-west of Exeter and south-west of London. It is bordered by Cornwall to the west and south-west.
Plymouth' ...
in the United States.
Fifth generation (E11-E19; 1983)
A fifth-generation model shifted to front-wheel drive in August 1983 as a four-door sedan and four-door hardtop (with different styling). The design continued the direction started with the Tredia, albeit with more harmonious proportions.De Leener, p. 129 Drag resistance was down to an average 0.36 . All new chassis numbers, from E11A to E19A, marked the change. External dimensions all grew, but only marginally, while the wheelbase was longer. Thanks to the more compact drivetrain, however, passenger space increased noticeably and the boot grew from while the liftover edge was significantly lowered.De Leener, p. 121 Weight distribution was distinctly towards the front, with 64.47% of the car's weight over the front wheels for the turbodiesel.De Leener, p. 127 In the Japanese market there was also a parallel "Eterna" lineup with very minor differences in appearance and equipment. This generation formed the basis of the widened (by 4 inches/100 mm)
Mitsubishi Magna
The Mitsubishi Magna is a mid-size car that was produced over three generations between 1985 and 2005 by Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL). Developed as a replacement for the Mitsubishi Sigma, each Magna generation derived from Japane ...
produced in Australia from 1985, the same year in which Mitsubishi won ''
Bild am Sonntag
''Bild am Sonntag'' (''BamS'') is the largest-selling German national Sunday newspaper published in Berlin, Germany.
History and profile
''Bild am Sonntag'' was first published on 29 April 1956.Helmut Böger, '' Bild'', 8 May 2011Die Story von B ...
's'' ''Das Goldene Lenkrad'' (Golden Steering Wheel) award in Germany for the Galant and
Wheels magazine
''Wheels'' is an Australian automotive magazine owned by Are Media. The publication is well-renowned by Australian car enthusiasts. Its main competitor within the Australian car magazine market is ''Motor'', though ''Wheels'' and ''Motor'' ar ...
's ''Car of the Year'' for the Magna.
Mitsubishi Motors
is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
The station wagon version was effectively replaced by the Chariot/Space Wagon in most markets. The Galant was the third Japanese car to adopt four-wheel anti-lock brakes, using Bosch's ABS system. Vehicles in Japan installed with the four-speed transmission were equipped with what Mitsubishi called Super Shift, essentially installing a
transfer case
A transfer case is a part of the drivetrain of four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and other multiple powered axle vehicles. The transfer case transfers power from the transmission to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts. It also syn ...
, without adding another driveshaft to the rear wheels. Super Shift was no longer offered with the introduction of the five-speed manual transmission.
Exports began about a year after introduction. European and rest-of-the-world trim levels were often engine-specific, depending on the market: At the time of introduction, GL and GLX models were offered with either 1.6-litre or 1.8-litre engines, GLS models had 2.0-litre engines (badged 2000 GLS; in some markets there was also a 2000 GLX) and Diesel versions had a 1.8-litre
Sirius
Sirius is the list of brightest stars, brightest star in the night sky. Its name is derived from the Ancient Greek language, Greek word , or , meaning 'glowing' or 'scorching'. The star is designated α Canis Majoris, Latinisation ...
turbodiesel
The term turbo-diesel, also written as turbodiesel and turbo diesel, refers to any diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger. As with other engine types, turbocharging a diesel engine can significantly increase its efficiency and power output, ...
engine. The diesel model received GL or GLX trim, although in some markets it was simply the 1800 TD. A fuel injected 2000 Turbo was also available in some export markets. The TD and the Turbo both received standard power steering.
Equipment levels in Japan had more interesting names, ranging from the LS and LG via Super Saloon, Super Touring, Super Exceed, and GSR-X up to the most luxurious Royal. The top models for Japan (the "Super Exceed" sedan or "VR" hardtop) were powered by the (JIS gross, later only 170 PS were claimed) turbocharged and intercooled " Sirius Dash 3/2 valve" engine. This engine switched between using two and three valves per cylinder to combine high top-end power with low-end drivability as well being economical in operation.
Sales in the United States began with the 1985 model year; this was the first time that the Galant series was sold stateside since the station wagon was marketed as a Dodge Colt a few years earlier. New for 1987 (the last model year for this generation) were redesigned seats and the availability of a five-speed manual transmission as well as leather upholstery.
This generation was largely replaced in 1988 by the sixth generation Galant (see below). The widened Australian-made version, however, remained in production until 1991 when it was replaced by a new generation Magna, whereas the Japanese hardtop range was produced until it was replaced by the new Sigma/Diamante version in 1990. In addition, the taxi-spec sedan fitted with a 1.8-litre LPG engine remained in production for Japanese commercial use until December 1999, when Mitsubishi abandoned that market.
At the end of October 1990, the Galant Σ Taxi received a light update and a reshuffle of the models. There was a base L model and a better equipped LG with body-colored bumpers. The modification included three-point belts in the rear seat, a high-mounted brake light, adjusted gearing, a flattened rear seat squab, larger radiator, and a larger washer fluid tank, amongst other detail improvements. A five-speed manual, or three- or four-speed automatics were on offer. Target production was around 1,200 units per year. For its last three years of production, this model received an LPG-version of the 1834 cc "4G93" engine.
;New Zealand – Sigma and V3000
The fifth-generation Galant was introduced to the New Zealand market in mid-1984, as the Mitsubishi Sigma. Assembled by Mitsubishi's New Zealand distributors, Todd Motors, the Sigma was available with the choice of 1.8- and 2.0-litre engines, the 2.0 having the option of
automatic transmission
An automatic transmission (sometimes abbreviated to auto or AT) is a multi-speed transmission used in internal combustion engine-based motor vehicles that does not require any input from the driver to change forward gears under normal driving c ...
, and availability with a turbocharger on certain models.
Several trim levels were offered, GL, GLX, GSR, Super Saloon and SE. The top SE versions notably featured 'Sigma' branded alloy wheels, digital instrumentation, climate controlled air conditioning, cruise control, speed-dependent intermittent wipers and a salmon-brown coloured interior treatment, the treatment changing deep red colour as a running change in 1985 on this model.
Further running changes concerned the rear styling. For the initial 1984 production run the rear numberplate was located above the bumper, however for 1985 and 1986 the plate was relocated to below the bumper, in the manner of the Japanese domestic market Galant models. New taillights were fitted for 1987, the rear numberplate reverting to its original place above the bumper.
1987 was a key year for Mitsubishi in New Zealand, when it bought out Todd Motors' automotive operations.
Although the sixth generation Galant was introduced for 1988, the older fifth generation bodyshell stayed in production alongside it. Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand intentionally decided to retain the fifth generation sedan bodystyle for a new, unique to New Zealand, flagship model—the 3.0-liter V6 engined
Mitsubishi V3000
The Mitsubishi V3000 is a mid-size car that was sold by the Mitsubishi Motors, New Zealand (MMC) between 1988 and 1996 in New Zealand. Mitsubishi utilised the V3000 nameplate on two different vehicles:
* First generation (1988–1991): the V300 ...
. The V3000 was developed specifically to give Mitsubishi New Zealand a six-cylinder family car, suitable for towing boats and caravans, to compete with the imported
Ford Falcon (EA)
The Ford Falcon (EA) is a full-size car that was produced by Ford Australia from 1988 to 1991. It was the first iteration of the fifth generation of the Falcon and also included the Ford Fairmont (EA)—the luxury-oriented version.
Development ...
and
Holden Commodore (VN)
The Holden Commodore (VN) is a full-size car that was produced by Holden from 1988 to 1991. It was the first iteration of the second generation of this Australian made model, which was previously a mid-size car, as well as the first Commodo ...
models.
While the rear styling of the previous Sigma model was retained, the frontal treatment was changed to now feature a more formal, upright chrome grille (the bonnet and grille were from the top-of the-line Sigma SE), and uprated suspension. The V3000 was available in basic Executive, mid-range Super Saloon, and top-of-the-range SEi trim levels, the latter with luxury trim and digital dashboard. Later a sports version Elante was introduced, based on the Executive. The V6 engine combined with relatively low weight and gearing ensured excellent performance, New Zealand's traffic patrol selected them as patrol cars to replace the turbocharged Sigma GSR. These police cars had the Elante suspension pack, which was an option on other models. For 1990, the V3000 was further updated and now featured the front styling of the Eterna hardtop. New Zealand was the only market where this restyling was applied to the fifth generation four-door sedan bodyshell. Assembly of this model continued until 1991, when it was replaced by the second-generation Australian
Mitsubishi Magna
The Mitsubishi Magna is a mid-size car that was produced over three generations between 1985 and 2005 by Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL). Developed as a replacement for the Mitsubishi Sigma, each Magna generation derived from Japane ...
TR V6 range, which continued to be known as V3000 for the New Zealand market.
Hardtop sedan
The hardtop sedan bodywork was used in export markets as well, where it received a six-window design unlike for its Japanese market counterparts. It was marketed under different names; "Galant Σ" or "Eterna Σ" (Sigma) in Japan, "Sapporo" in Europe, and in the US as "Galant Σ" (1988 model year) followed by plain "Sigma" (1989 to 1990 model years). The "Galant Σ" was released for the 1988 model year, but the "Sigma" version with updated alloy wheels began US sales in August 1988 for the 1989 model year and continued until 1990. These cars were available with a 3.0-liter V6 (North America, only with automatic transmission) or 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines (Europe) in the export. In the domestic Japanese market the hardtops received 2.0-litre fours, or the smaller 2.0-litre '' 6G71'' V6 engine from 1986, shared with the
Mitsubishi Debonair
The is a four-door executive sedan introduced by Mitsubishi Motors in 1964 to serve as their flagship passenger vehicle in the Japanese market. The word "debonair" means gentle, courteous, suave, lighthearted, or nonchalant.
__TOC__
Overvie ...
limousine. For the top-of-the-line VR models, an intercooled turbo-charged '' 4G63T'' "Sirius Dash 3x2" engine that automatically switched between two and three valves per cylinder depending upon throttle response and therefore allowing both economy and performance, was fitted, along with
self-levelling suspension Self-levelling refers to an automobile suspension system that maintains a constant ride height of the vehicle above the road, regardless of load.
Purpose
Many vehicle systems on a conventional vehicle are negatively affected by the change in attit ...
, climate-controlled air-conditioning, blue velour interior, steering wheel-controlled audio functions, and 15-inch alloy wheels. From 1985, the powerplant was renamed "Cyclone Dash 3x2".
The hardtop range continued to be available until 1990 as Mitsubishi's most luxurious offering in most export markets, until the Sigma/Diamante replaced it. It also continued on sale in Japan, but only as the Eterna Sigma after a facelift in May 1989. In Japan the hardtop was available with a 1.8-liter four at the bottom of the range and with the large 3.0-liter V6 in the top "Duke" version after this makeover. The European market Sapporo took its bow at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show; the large 2.4-liter ''4G64'' "Sirius" four-cylinder producing at 5,000 rpm ( for the catalyzed version).
In 1987 the same platform was used for a sixth-generation model which adopted taller, rounded styling. This generation won the
Car of the Year Japan
The annual Car of the Year Japan Award (日本カー・オブ・ザ・イヤー, nihon kā obu za iyā), also known as Japan Car of the Year (or JCOTY), is an annual Car of the Year award given for newly released or redesigned vehicles released in ...
award in 1987 and the GS model became ''
Motor Trend
''MotorTrend'' is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, and designated the first Car of the Year, also in 1949.
Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, California, Los Angeles published ''MotorTrend'' until 19 ...
s Import Car of the Year in 1989. This Galant began American sales in 1989 side by side with the previous generation Sigma.
Mitsubishi developed Dynamic ECS adaptive
air suspension
Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension powered by an electric or engine-driven air pump or compressor. This compressor pumps the air into a flexible bellows, usually made from textile-reinforced rubber. Unlike hydropneumatic suspension, ...
electronically controlled suspension An active suspension is a type of automotive suspension on a vehicle. It uses an onboard system to control the vertical movement of the vehicle's wheels relative to the chassis or vehicle body rather than the passive suspension provided by large sp ...
system in passenger cars; the system was first incorporated in the 1987 Galant model.
The Galant range underwent a minor facelift in 1991, with new grilles and other modifications. Also in 1991, Mitsubishi Motors Company completed a new assembly facility at
Barcelona, Venezuela
Barcelona is the capital of Anzoátegui State, Venezuela and was founded in 1671. Together with Puerto La Cruz, Lecheria and Guanta, Barcelona forms one of the most important urban areas of Venezuela, with a population of approximately 950,000.
...
, with the Galant being one of the first models produced. It was sold there until 1994 under the ZX, MF, MS and MX names, which identified the various levels of equipment and transmission.
The Sigma designation disappeared with the 1990 model. A new hardtop liftback model was added in 1988, called the ( ja, Mitsubishi Eterna). and in Japan, the Eterna was only sold at a specific retail chain called '' Car Plaza''. This generation Galant was also sold in Canada as the Dodge 2000 GTX and Eagle 2000 GTX. The five-door liftback version was never offered in North America, where buyers prefer traditional sedans. In most of the world, the sixth generation Galant was replaced towards the end of 1992, but North American sales only ended in 1994, when the next generation Galant arrived there.
A limited edition based on the GTi-16v model was introduced in 1989, modified by German tuning company AMG (owned by
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz (), commonly referred to as Mercedes and sometimes as Benz, is a German luxury and commercial vehicle automotive brand established in 1926. Mercedes-Benz AG (a Mercedes-Benz Group subsidiary established in 2019) is headquartere ...
since 1999), with mildly uprated engine () and unique body kit, alloy wheels, and full leather interior. The AMG appearance treatment was also achieved on the
Debonair
Debonair or Debonaire may refer to:
* Debonair (airline), a British airline that operated from 1996 to 1999
* ''Debonair'' (magazine), an Indian men's magazine
* ''Debonair'' (play), a 1930 British play by Frank Vosper
* Beechcraft Debonair, a ...
for 1986. It, along with the Debonair, were the only Japanese cars that received the AMG treatment.
The sixth generation was also the first to see the introduction of the '' VR-4'' variant, which was the basis for Mitsubishi's participation in the 1988–1992
World Rally Championship
The World Rally Championship (abbreviated as WRC) is the highest level of global competition in the motorsport discipline of rallying, owned and governed by the FIA. There are separate championships for drivers, co-drivers, manufacturers and t ...
s. The Galant's ''
4G63
The Mitsubishi Sirius or 4G6/4D6 engine is the name of one of Mitsubishi Motors' four series of inline-four automobile engines, along with Astron, Orion, and Saturn.
The 4G6 gasoline engines were the favoured performance variant for Mitsubishi. ...
'' two-litre DOHC turbocharged engine and 4WD transmission was later adopted for the
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the 'Evo', is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versio ...
with little modification and would remain in production for fifteen years. Starting in 1989, the Mitsubishi Galant V-series were produced for the Japanese market as a sporty alternative to the regular Galant range. The lineup consisted of Viento and VX-S/VZ-S models featuring the higher output 1.8 and 2.0 Turbo DOHC engines with both automatic and manual transmissions available. The V-series featured the VR-4 interior, exterior design and updated bumpers (without side skirts), clear indicator lens covers, optional two-tone body paint, as well as standard air conditioning, full electrics, rear windscreen wiper, spoiler and alloy wheels. Fans sometimes call this car the "Evo Zero" but this was never more than a nickname as the Evolution series is Lancer-based.
;Safety
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation. It describes its mission as "Save lives, prevent injuries, reduce vehicle-related crashes" rela ...
(NHTSA) crash test ratings for 1991–1992 Galant:
* Frontal Driver:
* Frontal Passenger:
* Side Driver:
* Side Rear Passenger:
* Rollover:
Tokyo Motor Show
The is a biennial auto show held in October–November at the Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan for cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), it is a recognized international show by ...
(model year 1994 in the US), originally only available as a four-door sedan (which was the only model to be sold in the US). A five-door liftback derivative made its world premiere at the February 1993 Dutch Motor Show. A Japan-only hardtop derivative called the ( ja, Emeraude) (French for
emerald
Emerald is a gemstone and a variety of the mineral beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) colored green by trace amounts of chromium or sometimes vanadium.Hurlbut, Cornelius S. Jr. and Kammerling, Robert C. (1991) ''Gemology'', John Wiley & Sons, New York, p ...
) was also launched in 1992. The width dimensions of the model sold in Japan no longer complied with Japanese government dimension regulations, and buyers were now liable for additional taxes, which affected sales.
In October 1993, Mitsubishi introduced a trim level for this model called "VX-R", offered a 2.0 L
MIVEC
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) is the brand name of a variable valve timing (VVT) engine technology developed by Mitsubishi Motors. MIVEC, as with other similar systems, varies the timing of the intake and ex ...
version of the '' 6A12'', a high revving naturally aspirated V6 engine with more aggressive tuning. This engine is also found on Mitsubishi's midsize sports car FTO's GP trim levels which introduced in 1994. Output was placed at 200 hp (149 kW) and 147 lb⋅ft (199 N⋅m) of torque.
This generation marked a substantial change in suspension design. The front switched from struts to a multi-link structure featuring two lower arms and one upper arm. The rear switched from a beam axle to a newly designed multi-link system. This was the world's first 4-wheel multi-link suspension in an FF car. Both designs would carry over to the second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse and its sister vehicles.
VR-4
For 1992, the emergence of the
homologated
Homologation (Greek ''homologeo'', ὁμολογέω, "to agree") is the granting of approval by an official authority. This may be a court of law, a government department, or an academic or professional body, any of which would normally work f ...
Lancer Evolution
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the 'Evo', is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versi ...
meant that the top-spec Galant VR-4 was no longer constrained by sporting regulations. The new generation thus became a less overtly competition oriented vehicle. The existing, proven 4WD transmission was carried over, in keeping with Mitsubishi's reputation for performance-enhancing technology, but the old inline-four was superseded by a smoother twin-turbo 2.0-litre V6, and mated either to a conventional five-speed
manual
Manual may refer to:
Instructions
* User guide
* Owner's manual
* Instruction manual (gaming)
* Online help
Other uses
* Manual (music), a keyboard, as for an organ
* Manual (band)
* Manual transmission
* Manual, a bicycle technique similar to ...
auto
Auto may refer to:
* An automaton
* An automobile
* An autonomous car
* An automatic transmission
* An auto rickshaw
* Short for automatic
* Auto (art), a form of Portuguese dramatic play
* ''Auto'' (film), 2007 Tamil comedy film
* Auto (play), ...
complete with "
fuzzy logic
Fuzzy logic is a form of many-valued logic in which the truth value of variables may be any real number between 0 and 1. It is employed to handle the concept of partial truth, where the truth value may range between completely true and completely ...
", which allowed the transmission to adapt to the driver's style and road conditions "on the fly". It was capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in about 6.5 seconds, and if derestricted could reach about .
Variants of the VR-4 using the same engine and drivetrain were sold in Japan as the Eterna XX-4 (1992) and Galant Sports GT liftback.
;Technical specifications
:''Engine''
::''Configuration'' – DOHC 24v V type 6-cylinder 6A12TT
::''Bore/stroke, capacity'' – 78.4 x 69.0 mm, 1998 cc
::''Compression ratio'' – 8.5:1
::''Fuelling'' – ECI-MULTI, premium unleaded fuel
::''Peak power'' – at 6000 rpm
::''Peak torque'' – at 3500 rpm
:''Suspension'' – Multi-link (front & rear)
:''Wheels/tyres'' – 205/60 R15 91Vβ̞
Export
Production in the United States began on 24 May 1993 when the first seventh generation Galant rolled off the assembly line in
Normal, Illinois
Normal is a town in McLean County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town's population was 52,736. Normal is the smaller of two principal municipalities of the Bloomington–Normal metropolitan area, and Illinois' seventh most ...
. In 1995, a slightly upgraded GS version was available with a twin cam engine, speed-sensitive steering, rear stabilizer bar, and an available manual transmission.
In Europe were also available naturally aspirated 2.5 L 24-valve
DOHC
An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine where the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combustion c ...
engine, which was mounted with four-wheel drive, 5-speed manual transmission and four-wheel-steering. Body styles were four-door sedan and five-door Liftback. Rear differential was not available with limited-slip. In option were sunroof, A/C, cruise control, power windows, central locking, electrical heated seats and electrical side-mirrors.
In the Philippines, the seventh generation Galant started production in late October 1993. It was offered in 2 grades: VR and top-spec Super Saloon. There were 2 engine choices offered: the 2.0L V6 engine mated to a 5-speed manual for the VR or a 2.0L inline-four engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission for the Super Saloon grade.
;Safety
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation. It describes its mission as "Save lives, prevent injuries, reduce vehicle-related crashes" rela ...
(NHTSA) crash test ratings for 1997 and 1998 Galant:
* Frontal driver:
* Frontal passenger:
* Side driver:
* Side rear passenger:
* Rollover:
The eighth-generation 1996 model continued the 1992's design themes but a five-door
station wagon
A station wagon ( US, also wagon) or estate car ( UK, also estate), is an automotive body-style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door ( ...
(known in Japan as the Legnum, derives from the Latin word regnum, meaning regal power or rank) was added while the five-door liftback was dropped. This model won the 1996–97
Car of the Year Japan
The annual Car of the Year Japan Award (日本カー・オブ・ザ・イヤー, nihon kā obu za iyā), also known as Japan Car of the Year (or JCOTY), is an annual Car of the Year award given for newly released or redesigned vehicles released in ...
award for the second time. Despite being superseded in the US and Europe from 2003, it remained on sale in other countries until 2006. In Japan, the Legnum was sold only at a specific retail chain called " Car Plaza", while the Galant remained exclusive to Galant Shop locations. The Japanese market model was the first mass-produced car to use a
gasoline direct injection
Gasoline direct injection (GDI), also known as petrol direct injection (PDI), is a mixture formation system for internal combustion engines that run on gasoline (petrol), where fuel is injected into the combustion chamber. This is distinct fro ...
engine, when a GDI version of the '' 4G93'' inline-four engine was introduced.
This model was also produced in
Barcelona, Venezuela
Barcelona is the capital of Anzoátegui State, Venezuela and was founded in 1671. Together with Puerto La Cruz, Lecheria and Guanta, Barcelona forms one of the most important urban areas of Venezuela, with a population of approximately 950,000.
...
, at the only Mitsubishi plant in Latin America. At the beginning, the Galant was marketed in that country under the "MX" and "MF" names in 1997 and 1998 (featuring a manual or ''
'' automatic transmission respectively), then kept the Galant name until the end of its production in 2006. Although the equipment options were limited, the VR-4 appearance package was offered in that market.
The American market Galant, introduced on 7 July 1998, graduated to the
US Environmental Protection Agency
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an independent executive agency of the United States federal government tasked with environmental protection matters. President Richard Nixon proposed the establishment of EPA on July 9, 1970; it be ...
's
mid-size
Mid-size—also known as intermediate—is a vehicle size class which originated in the United States and is used for cars larger than compact cars and smaller than full-size cars. "Large family car" is a UK term and a part of the D-segment in t ...
class. The front suspension design switched from multi-link to struts, though the rear was upgraded with a stabilizer bar standard on all but the base DE model. The ES, LS and GTZ models were offered with a
V6 engine
A V6 engine is a six-cylinder piston engine where the cylinders share a common crankshaft and are arranged in a V configuration.
The first V6 engines were designed and produced independently by Marmon Motor Car Company, Deutz Gasmotoren Fabrik ...
, the '' 6G72'' 3.0 L, mated to a standard four-speed conventional automatic. Another difference between Asian and European models was the lack of ABS, which was only installed on 3.0 L models.
In August 1998, Mitsubishi introduced the Aspire as the successor of Eterna. Externally identical to the facelifted Galant at the same time of introduction.
Mitsubishi opted to further develop the technology in its range-topping VR-4, which was now powered by an enlarged 2.5 L V6 twin-turbo. The car features either a conventional five-speed
manual
Manual may refer to:
Instructions
* User guide
* Owner's manual
* Instruction manual (gaming)
* Online help
Other uses
* Manual (music), a keyboard, as for an organ
* Manual (band)
* Manual transmission
* Manual, a bicycle technique similar to ...
transmission. Some variants (all of the pre-facelift model and Type-S for the facelift model) were also fitted with the same advanced
active yaw control
Active may refer to:
Music
* ''Active'' (album), a 1992 album by Casiopea
* Active Records, a record label
Ships
* ''Active'' (ship), several commercial ships by that name
* HMS ''Active'', the name of various ships of the British Royal ...
(AYC) as the
Lancer Evolution
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the 'Evo', is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versi ...
, to give it greater agility than would be expected of such a large vehicle. Finally, as with the rest of the range, the VR-4 could now be had either as a Galant sedan or as a Legnum
station wagon
A station wagon ( US, also wagon) or estate car ( UK, also estate), is an automotive body-style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door ( ...
.
The MIVEC version of the 6A12 was drop down from the Japanese market model, but some Asian markets were offer this engine with the trim levels called "VX-R" or "VR-M". The larger 2.5 L '' 6A13'' was more common in the rest of the world.
;Safety
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test ratings for 2001 Galant without side airbags:
* Frontal driver:
* Frontal passenger:
* Side driver:
* Side rear passenger:
* Rollover: not rated
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test ratings for 1999–2002 Galant with side airbags:
* Frontal driver:
* Frontal passenger:
* Side driver:
* Side rear passenger:
* Rollover:
Ninth generation (2004)
North America
The United States has had the sedan-only ninth-generation PS platform model since October 15, 2003. It was announced at the 2003 New York International Auto Show in April for the 2004 model year, following the exhibition of the SSS concept sedan at the
North American International Auto Show
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), also known as the Detroit Auto Show as of 2022 and prior to NAIAS, is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., at Huntington Place. The show was held in January from 1989 to 2019. ...
three years before. The ninth-generation United States-sourced model is available for sale only in a few regional markets, namely the United States, Puerto Rico, Russia, Ukraine and
Arabia
The Arabian Peninsula, (; ar, شِبْهُ الْجَزِيرَةِ الْعَرَبِيَّة, , "Arabian Peninsula" or , , "Island of the Arabs") or Arabia, is a peninsula of Western Asia, situated northeast of Africa on the Arabian Plate. ...
. Russia began sourcing its Galants from the United States from 2006. The Arabian markets began sourcing their Galants from the United States from the 2007 model year. The Galant had also been available in Canada and Mexico until the 2010 and 2009 model years, respectively.
A size increase resulted in slightly more interior space and a weight gain of several hundred pounds. The
four-cylinder
The engine configuration describes the fundamental operating principles by which internal combustion engines are categorized.
Piston engines are often categorized by their cylinder layout, valves and camshafts. Wankel engines are often categorize ...
engine, while still 2.4 liters in displacement, upgraded from Mitsubishi's 4G64 design to the newer 4G69 design, resulting in a horsepower increase from to and . Likewise, the V6 jumped from a 3.0-liter with to a 3.8-liter with and . All North American Galants gained all-wheel disc brakes but lost their rear stabilizer bar.
A Ralliart version joined for 2007, finally upgrading the V6 to a class-competitive and while also adding a firmer suspension, front strut tower bar, rear stabilizer bar, and eighteen-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, the Ralliart trim was the first Galant to receive Mitsubishi's updated infotainment system (MMCS) featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display with GPS navigation. The Ralliart was further distinguished from other Galant trims by a unique front aero bumper, sport mesh grille, projector-style ellipsoid headlamps, two-tone bumpers and color-keyed side air dams. For 2008, the trimming of models left the Ralliart as the only V6 model, and the Galant skips the 2008 model year in Canada, only to return in 2009 with the facelifted model.
Four-cylinder Galant models sold in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont are certified as Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicles (PZEV), with the engine rated .
This iteration of the Mitsubishi Galant only went on sale in the Middle East region for the 2007 model year, with a 2.4-liter engine and a 3.8-liter engine, imported from the United States.
Osamu Masuko, the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors, indicated that the ninth generation of the Galant would be the last to be manufactured in North America, to be replaced on the
MMNA
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. is the U.S. operation of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, overseeing sales and research and development functions. The company manufactures and sells Mitsubishi brand cars and sport utility vehicles through a n ...
production line in Illinois by smaller vehicles which are more likely to appeal to export markets.
The final Mitsubishi Galant rolled off the assembly line in the United States on August 30, 2012. The
Mitsubishi Concept-ZT
The Mitsubishi Concept-ZT is a concept car developed by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors, and first exhibited at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in September 2007.
that was unveiled in 2007 was initially expected to become the tenth generation Galant but this never materialized.
Facelifts
2006
The Galant receives some cosmetic changes, such as an AC adapter, and a standard MP3 jack, and upgrades to the interior.
2007
In 2007, the Galant was restyled - the interior and exterior were refreshed and an updated infotainment system was introduced.
2009
In 2009, the Galant was restyled for a third time during this generation. The 2009 Galant launched in February 2008.
File:04-06 Mitsubishi Galant.jpg, 2004–2006 Mitsubishi Galant (US)
File:2007-2008 Mitsubishi Galant -- 08-16-2010.jpg, 2007-2008 Mitsubishi Galant (US)
File:2009 Mitsubishi Galant.jpg, 2009-2012 Mitsubishi Galant (US)
A four-cylinder Sport Edition was added for the 2009 model year. Galant Sport models include new standard factory value packages as standard. Sportronic automatic transmission is standard in all models, with a four-speed for four-cylinder engines and a five-speed for V6 engines.
East Asia
Mitsubishi also assembles and markets a Taiwan made version of the ninth-generation Galant. In Taiwan, this version is known as the Mitsubishi Grunder. Taiwan was one of the first regions outside the Americas to market the ninth generation vehicle, when the Galant Grunder was launched in December 2004 with a unique front end. It has a version of the 2.4-liter engine and four-speed automatic (INVECS-II), and comes in either SEi format or as the better equipped EXi model.
File:Mitsubishi Galant IX CN Sanming 01 2022-08-11.jpg, Chinese market Galant produced by Soueast-Mitsubishi
File:Mitsubishi Galant IX CN Sanming 02 2022-08-11.jpg, Rear view of the Chinese market Galant
File:Mitsubishi Grunder.jpg, Taiwanese market Galant Grunder
File:Mitsubishi Galant Grunder facelift.jpg, Taiwanese market Galant Grunder post-facelift
File:ROC-NPA First Corps of Special Police Third Headquarters patrol car 6390-VG 20150815.jpg, Rear view of the post-facelift Taiwanese market Galant Grunder serving as a police cruiser
This facelifted model is also sold in the Philippines from 2006 to 2009 as the Galant 240M, using Mitsubishi's 2.4L 4G69 MIVEC engine with Mitsubishi's 4-speed INVECS-II automatic transmission with Sportronic. It came with leather seats, remote keyless entry, eight-way power adjustment seat with variable lumbar support (driver side only), automatic climate control system, and an MP3-ready audio system. It only came in two color options; "Merlin Black" or "Excalibur Silver". In 2009, Mitsubishi Philippines replaced this with the all-new "SE" trim. It featured a redesigned grill, a new 12-speaker audio system with Dolby 5.1 Surround and DTS support, GPS-based navigation system, power adjustable mirrors, reverse camera among other features.
The Taiwanese-made Galant has also been sold by Soueast Motor in the People's Republic of China as the Galant since 2006. Models in China receive a 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter petrol engines, each paired with an automatic transmission.
Australia
From 2005 to 2008, a localized version called the
Mitsubishi 380
The Mitsubishi 380 is a mid-size car that was produced between 2005 and 2008 by Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Available only as a sedan, it marked the end of Australian production by the Japanese manufacturer.
The 380, given the model designatio ...
was manufactured in Australia for the Australian and New Zealand markets. No four cylinder engines were offered, the 380 being available only with the 3.8-liter 6G75 V6 with . This replaced the long-lived Magna line, and it was the last Mitsubishi car produced in Australia.
20 limited edition TMR models (Team Mitsubishi Ralliart) were made towards the end of the car's production at the Tonsley Park factory in Adelaide, running a supercharged version of the 3.8 6G75 with 230kW and 442Nm
Nameplate use with Lancer
With the exception of the Lancer Evolution X, the ninth generation Lancer was marketed as the Galant Fortis (
Latin
Latin (, or , ) is a classical language belonging to the Italic branch of the Indo-European languages. Latin was originally a dialect spoken in the lower Tiber area (then known as Latium) around present-day Rome, but through the power of the ...
for strong, brave and resolute) in the Japanese domestic market. It comes in three trim levels: Exceed, Super Exceed, and Ralliart.
Between August 2015 to August 2017, GHK Motors (Mitsubishi Brunei) offered a version of the Lancer Sportback hatchback model under the name "Galant" in Brunei. The production of this model ceased at the end of August 2017 due to poor sales. Instead of increasing Mitsubishi's popularity, it took sales away from the Lancer.
Galant
The galant style was an 18th-century movement in music, visual arts and literature. In Germany a closely related style was called the '' empfindsamer Stil'' (sensitive style). Another close relative is rococo style. The galant style was drawn in ...