MITSUBISHI GALANT (1997-2005)
Showing posts with label mitsubishi galant. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mitsubishi galant. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 8 (1997-2005)
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 7 (1993-1997)
MITSUBISHI GALANT (1993-1997)
This generation of the Galant signaled the loss of the carburetor engine as well as the GTi model replaced by a 2.0 V6 engine. This model was particularly successful although the next one faced falling sales.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 6 (1987-1993)
MITSUBISHI GALANT (1987-1993)
This particular generation of Galant is noted for offering a GTI variant, which rivals back then did not have any sports model (what rivals?). It presented a balance of fun and comfort back in the day.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 9.2 (2009-2012)
MITSUBISHI GALANT (2009-2012)
The swan song for the Galant nameplate, this one gains a passenger side airbag (a notable omission of the previous model), GPS navigation system, and a sun roof, as well as an upgrade to 17 inch wheels. Not much efforts were done to save the name elsewhere that caused its discontinuation.
See the overview of this Galant
See the Generation 9.1 model
Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 9.1 (2006-2008)
This would be the last generation of the Galant to be offered worldwide, and Philippine market units are sourced from Taiwan. Engine has been uprated to a 2.4 one while the automatic gets a manual mode.
See the overview of this Galant
Monday, January 6, 2014
Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (1993-1997)
Let us start the year with a used car review. Myk Belmonte obliges you with a car that is a bargain nowadays.
1993-1997 Mitsubishi Galant
History
Among premium sedans, Filipinos have a soft spot for the Mitsubishi Galant. Why did I say so? Long before the Accords and the Camrys dotted the Philippine roads, executives had this one alongside with the Toyota Corona. One piece of trivia: during the 80s, several third and fourth generation Galants were used as patrol vehicles by Highway Patrol Group (which you know on whom they chase).
The seventh generation Galant can be had in sedan, hatchback, and hardtop (exclusive for Japan) known as the Emeraude. It saw a change in suspension from struts and beam axles to a multi-link system all around that later on was used to several Mitsubishi vehicles. The Lancer Evo may be Mitsubishi's rally car but the Galant VR-4 was treated to a 2.0 V6 twin turbo to compensate on the loss. Production lasted until 1998 with the eighth generation model replacing it.
1993 was the year when Japanese premium sedans arrived to the Philippine market. The seventh generation Galant battled with industry stalwart Toyota Corona which was redesigned for that year, as well as new entrants Mazda 626 and Nissan Altima. This one held its candle against these vehicles and even with the successful Honda Accord and Nissan Cefiro. As they said, good things must come to an end and it was replaced with the eight generation model in late 1997. Available variants back then include the Super Saloon and VR.
Value and Costs
This 90s wonder can be yours for nearly less than 200k, since prices fall between P80,000-P170,000. At the same time, rivals of the same period can be had at these prices. Do not expect Corolla or Sentra fuel economy with this, the reason for the low resale prices.
Unlike the Honda Accord of the same period, parts for the Galant are widespread and on the cheap side. What you should look at are the suspension and its inner components since this is the weak point (you know the notorious kalampag issue of Mitsubishis of old) and can cost you more. Obviously, the VR which has a V6 engine is expensive to maintain. The V6 has spark plugs at the rear portion of the engine which costs more and requires the removal of the intake manifold and several coolant hoses.
Exterior and Interior
Called as the "Ray-ban" by enthusiasts due to its taillights, the seventh generation Galant is more streamed and elegant in a low fashion way. There is no need to deal with the styling since it invites you to see one for yourself. To distinguish the Super Saloon from the VR, the latter carries side skirts while later models of the SS have twin tail pipes and 15 inch wheels, which was not standard before.
Occupants, driving or not, will be treated to an expanse space of interior room without having the feeling of being claustrophobic or violating each other's personal space. To distinguish interiors from one another, SS do have a four spoke steering wheel and manual type climate control while VR gets a three spoke wheel and automatic climate control, a notable first back then.
Engine
Two engines are made available of varying cylinder outputs and the basic one is a 4G63 1,997cc 4-cylinder that carries 136hp at 6,000rpm and 180Nm at 3,000rpm. It offers enough grunt inside the city and the Beer na Beer of the Galant engine range. If you want more kick in power, the Colt 45 of all Galant engines is the 6A12 1,998cc V6 that pumps out 145hp at 6,000rpm and 179Nm at 4,000rpm will give you a smile on your face while driving. Neither engines will disappoint you but set aside your priorities on which do you prefer.
Driving Impressions
Being behind the wheel is a pleasurable experience, especially the Galant is something that is enjoyable to drive. Road noise is vindicated but passing through road ruts will give your suspension some trip to the repair shop. While the 4-cylinder is basically a normal engine, the V6 is a revelation: fun to drive and less stress from the engine plus push it hard to give the engine some noise which is a sound to one's ears.
Verdict
What used to be a car of the affluent is now a bargain for mere mortals like us. It had hidden gems which rivals current vehicles plus the timeless appeal, making it a future classic. The time for hunting is now.
1993-1997 Mitsubishi Galant
History
Among premium sedans, Filipinos have a soft spot for the Mitsubishi Galant. Why did I say so? Long before the Accords and the Camrys dotted the Philippine roads, executives had this one alongside with the Toyota Corona. One piece of trivia: during the 80s, several third and fourth generation Galants were used as patrol vehicles by Highway Patrol Group (which you know on whom they chase).
The seventh generation Galant can be had in sedan, hatchback, and hardtop (exclusive for Japan) known as the Emeraude. It saw a change in suspension from struts and beam axles to a multi-link system all around that later on was used to several Mitsubishi vehicles. The Lancer Evo may be Mitsubishi's rally car but the Galant VR-4 was treated to a 2.0 V6 twin turbo to compensate on the loss. Production lasted until 1998 with the eighth generation model replacing it.
1993 was the year when Japanese premium sedans arrived to the Philippine market. The seventh generation Galant battled with industry stalwart Toyota Corona which was redesigned for that year, as well as new entrants Mazda 626 and Nissan Altima. This one held its candle against these vehicles and even with the successful Honda Accord and Nissan Cefiro. As they said, good things must come to an end and it was replaced with the eight generation model in late 1997. Available variants back then include the Super Saloon and VR.
Value and Costs
This 90s wonder can be yours for nearly less than 200k, since prices fall between P80,000-P170,000. At the same time, rivals of the same period can be had at these prices. Do not expect Corolla or Sentra fuel economy with this, the reason for the low resale prices.
Unlike the Honda Accord of the same period, parts for the Galant are widespread and on the cheap side. What you should look at are the suspension and its inner components since this is the weak point (you know the notorious kalampag issue of Mitsubishis of old) and can cost you more. Obviously, the VR which has a V6 engine is expensive to maintain. The V6 has spark plugs at the rear portion of the engine which costs more and requires the removal of the intake manifold and several coolant hoses.
Exterior and Interior
Called as the "Ray-ban" by enthusiasts due to its taillights, the seventh generation Galant is more streamed and elegant in a low fashion way. There is no need to deal with the styling since it invites you to see one for yourself. To distinguish the Super Saloon from the VR, the latter carries side skirts while later models of the SS have twin tail pipes and 15 inch wheels, which was not standard before.
Occupants, driving or not, will be treated to an expanse space of interior room without having the feeling of being claustrophobic or violating each other's personal space. To distinguish interiors from one another, SS do have a four spoke steering wheel and manual type climate control while VR gets a three spoke wheel and automatic climate control, a notable first back then.
Engine
Two engines are made available of varying cylinder outputs and the basic one is a 4G63 1,997cc 4-cylinder that carries 136hp at 6,000rpm and 180Nm at 3,000rpm. It offers enough grunt inside the city and the Beer na Beer of the Galant engine range. If you want more kick in power, the Colt 45 of all Galant engines is the 6A12 1,998cc V6 that pumps out 145hp at 6,000rpm and 179Nm at 4,000rpm will give you a smile on your face while driving. Neither engines will disappoint you but set aside your priorities on which do you prefer.
Driving Impressions
Being behind the wheel is a pleasurable experience, especially the Galant is something that is enjoyable to drive. Road noise is vindicated but passing through road ruts will give your suspension some trip to the repair shop. While the 4-cylinder is basically a normal engine, the V6 is a revelation: fun to drive and less stress from the engine plus push it hard to give the engine some noise which is a sound to one's ears.
Verdict
What used to be a car of the affluent is now a bargain for mere mortals like us. It had hidden gems which rivals current vehicles plus the timeless appeal, making it a future classic. The time for hunting is now.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (2006-2012)
On the fourth day of Christmas Myk Belmonte gave to me... four of them. Four Mitsubishi Galants, great!
2006-2012 Mitsubishi Galant
History
I was definitely wondering why the word 'galant' does not exist in any English dictionary or receive a red jagged line whether in MS Word or in Google Chrome. While writing this article, I stumbled upon everyone's favorite research website, Wikipedia, that the word means "chivalrous". This word means a courteous man towards the fairer sex, hence the elegant styling that targets executives (in my own interpretation).
Based on the SSS concept sedan displayed at the North American International Auto Show in 2000, the ninth generation Galant had its US launch in 2003. With numerous versions sold for the North American (Russia, Ukraine, and some Middle East countries have this version), Australian (sold as the 380 with a few differences), and East Asian markets, the Galant was either successful or a flop. The last unit rolled out the Illinois' facility on August 30, 2012.
Long due for introduction, the ninth generation model arrived at Philippine shores in January 2006. Rather than assembled locally, PHDM units are sourced from Taiwan. From 2006 until 2008, it is dubbed as the 240M with the 2009 update gaining the SE moniker. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines silently dropped the vehicle in 2012.
Value and Costs
Sedans with two liters of displacement and above usually have poor resale values. With that in mind, a ninth generation Galant would cost you between P300,000-P700,000. With that sum, you get something comfortable without spending too much.
The 4G69 engine is also used by the Grandis and the first generation Outlander, so finding engine components isn't a problem. While this is a low volume model, spare parts can be purchased in the casa or even a specialist shop.
Exterior and Interior
More larger than the model it replaces, the ninth generation is the athlete in jersey turned father in suits in terms of design. Sharp lines that shout sportiness is not that much evident; replacing them are: rising window line, sharp creases, and an imposing grille. To distinguish models, 2006-2008 Galants have the Boulay grille while a one piece chrome grille is standard among 2009-2012 units.
If I criticize the previous model for having a tight rear, the Galant offers you tons of cabin space. Need to change the radio station or adjust the climate controls? Well, the center stack has their buttons crammed to one another and mastering them takes time. A minus point is the cheap feeling materials, especially for something that has a retail price of P1.5M when brand new. There are some other negatives inside the cabin apart from the interior materials: a passenger side airbag for 2006-2008 models is not available; the GPS unit cannot read street names, opening it requires a bulky remote, writing destinations is still through the remote, and isn't portable; and lastly, the DVD player is picky when it comes to playing discs. Do take note the GPS and DVD is available in the updated 2009 models. Thankfully, this sedan has an electronic power seat and the gauges in blue do not washout in direct sunlight.
Engine
Taiwan sourced models have only one engine available: the 4G69 2,378cc four cylinder that disposes 162hp at 5,500rpm and 219Nm at 4,000rpm. The numbers may look conservative, but as they say numbers are just numbers. This is one car that loves to be pushed to V6 speed territory, despite the automatic tranny being a four speed.
Driving Impressions
It defies the size, this sedan has a tight turning radius coupled with a responsive steering. A cavernous cabin must be partnered with a suspension and high levels of isolation, and it does oblige you with tons of it. But despite the speedy engine, this is no sports car.
Verdict
A good choice for those who value luxury and isolation above else, the ninth generation Galant is one good buy. There are some quirks in it but at these prices (established ones of the same age are priced higher) you can't help but resist.
2006-2012 Mitsubishi Galant
History
I was definitely wondering why the word 'galant' does not exist in any English dictionary or receive a red jagged line whether in MS Word or in Google Chrome. While writing this article, I stumbled upon everyone's favorite research website, Wikipedia, that the word means "chivalrous". This word means a courteous man towards the fairer sex, hence the elegant styling that targets executives (in my own interpretation).
Based on the SSS concept sedan displayed at the North American International Auto Show in 2000, the ninth generation Galant had its US launch in 2003. With numerous versions sold for the North American (Russia, Ukraine, and some Middle East countries have this version), Australian (sold as the 380 with a few differences), and East Asian markets, the Galant was either successful or a flop. The last unit rolled out the Illinois' facility on August 30, 2012.
Long due for introduction, the ninth generation model arrived at Philippine shores in January 2006. Rather than assembled locally, PHDM units are sourced from Taiwan. From 2006 until 2008, it is dubbed as the 240M with the 2009 update gaining the SE moniker. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines silently dropped the vehicle in 2012.
Value and Costs
Sedans with two liters of displacement and above usually have poor resale values. With that in mind, a ninth generation Galant would cost you between P300,000-P700,000. With that sum, you get something comfortable without spending too much.
The 4G69 engine is also used by the Grandis and the first generation Outlander, so finding engine components isn't a problem. While this is a low volume model, spare parts can be purchased in the casa or even a specialist shop.
Exterior and Interior
More larger than the model it replaces, the ninth generation is the athlete in jersey turned father in suits in terms of design. Sharp lines that shout sportiness is not that much evident; replacing them are: rising window line, sharp creases, and an imposing grille. To distinguish models, 2006-2008 Galants have the Boulay grille while a one piece chrome grille is standard among 2009-2012 units.
If I criticize the previous model for having a tight rear, the Galant offers you tons of cabin space. Need to change the radio station or adjust the climate controls? Well, the center stack has their buttons crammed to one another and mastering them takes time. A minus point is the cheap feeling materials, especially for something that has a retail price of P1.5M when brand new. There are some other negatives inside the cabin apart from the interior materials: a passenger side airbag for 2006-2008 models is not available; the GPS unit cannot read street names, opening it requires a bulky remote, writing destinations is still through the remote, and isn't portable; and lastly, the DVD player is picky when it comes to playing discs. Do take note the GPS and DVD is available in the updated 2009 models. Thankfully, this sedan has an electronic power seat and the gauges in blue do not washout in direct sunlight.
Engine
Taiwan sourced models have only one engine available: the 4G69 2,378cc four cylinder that disposes 162hp at 5,500rpm and 219Nm at 4,000rpm. The numbers may look conservative, but as they say numbers are just numbers. This is one car that loves to be pushed to V6 speed territory, despite the automatic tranny being a four speed.
Driving Impressions
It defies the size, this sedan has a tight turning radius coupled with a responsive steering. A cavernous cabin must be partnered with a suspension and high levels of isolation, and it does oblige you with tons of it. But despite the speedy engine, this is no sports car.
Verdict
A good choice for those who value luxury and isolation above else, the ninth generation Galant is one good buy. There are some quirks in it but at these prices (established ones of the same age are priced higher) you can't help but resist.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Galant (1993-1998)
The Good: Zesty engines, oodles of space
The Bad: Plain interior
The Say: A great bargain at used car prices.
Go For: 2.0 VR
Avoid: Thrashed units
Price Range: P80,000-P175,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (1993-1998)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1993-1997
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (1998-2005)
Myk Belmonte revisits a 90s wonder which could have been a hit, if things went right for the car itself at that time.
1998-2005 Mitsubishi Galant
History
One of the longest running nameplates locally and one of the top choices when it comes to premium sedans back in the 80s and 90s. While the sixth and seventh generation models were popular buys back then, the eighth generation one - what you see in this review - eventually started the downfall for the Galant nameplate especially when the vehicle started to feel old against some key competitors from Toyota, Nissan, and Honda. Think when Backstreet Boys got older, their popularity waned in favor of One Direction and The Wanted.
Launched in 1996 in either sedan or wagon bodies, the eighth generation Galant continued the styling cues of the model it preceded but with the deletion of the liftback model. Numerous engines were made available including a GDi (gasoline direct injection) and a 2.0 V6 one seen in the FTO. While last sold in the US in 2003, other countries had this one until 2006.
December 1997 saw the launch of the eighth model despite the financial crisis that crippled the Philippines back then. While it sold decently in its first run, the revised Cefiro in 2000, the all new Camry in 2002, and the redesigned Accord in 2003 clawed the market share of the Galant until a new model dubbed as the 240M was made available in January 2006. Trims available include the 4-cylinder Super Saloon which was later revised and renamed as the GT-A and the V6 VR sold from 1998 to 2000 but reappeared in 2002.
Launched in 1996 in either sedan or wagon bodies, the eighth generation Galant continued the styling cues of the model it preceded but with the deletion of the liftback model. Numerous engines were made available including a GDi (gasoline direct injection) and a 2.0 V6 one seen in the FTO. While last sold in the US in 2003, other countries had this one until 2006.
December 1997 saw the launch of the eighth model despite the financial crisis that crippled the Philippines back then. While it sold decently in its first run, the revised Cefiro in 2000, the all new Camry in 2002, and the redesigned Accord in 2003 clawed the market share of the Galant until a new model dubbed as the 240M was made available in January 2006. Trims available include the 4-cylinder Super Saloon which was later revised and renamed as the GT-A and the V6 VR sold from 1998 to 2000 but reappeared in 2002.
Value and Costs
Priced similarly to most Estrada and even some Macapagal-Arroyo era premium sedans, the Galant can be acquired for just between P210,000-P360,000. You'll be encountering the 4 cylinder models more than the V6 ones since the latter was retailed in a short span of time.
The common malady of the Galant of this generation is the automatic transmission that gives up on itself. Consumables include the suspension, ball joints. and other underchassis components must be inspected and replaced. V6 models are fuel thirsty, so if fuel consumption is a concern, hunt for a Super Saloon with a manual transmission.
The common malady of the Galant of this generation is the automatic transmission that gives up on itself. Consumables include the suspension, ball joints. and other underchassis components must be inspected and replaced. V6 models are fuel thirsty, so if fuel consumption is a concern, hunt for a Super Saloon with a manual transmission.
Exterior and Interior
Local car enthusiasts dub this as the "shark" due to some sharp edges that resembles the water creature. In fact, it has some cues lifted from a BMW, but the way it drives and performs is a different can of worms altogether.
Unlike the Accord, interior materials used are more compatible for the Lancer since they are of poor quality. The wood trim is nearly the same with the Camry, but more Snickers dark than the lighter variety, and both the VR and GT-A have leather seating, a bane for tropical climates. While the front occupants have decent space (the driver has numerous settings for a comfortable position), rear ones have to contend with a tight bench.
Unlike the Accord, interior materials used are more compatible for the Lancer since they are of poor quality. The wood trim is nearly the same with the Camry, but more Snickers dark than the lighter variety, and both the VR and GT-A have leather seating, a bane for tropical climates. While the front occupants have decent space (the driver has numerous settings for a comfortable position), rear ones have to contend with a tight bench.
Engine
It was the Galant that first introduced a four and six cylinder engine option, which competitors imitated later on. First on the Galant engine chain is the 4G63 1,997cc that carries 136hp at 6,000rpm and 180Nm at 3,000rpm while the king is the 6A13 2.498cc which has 163hp at 5,750rpm and 218Nm at 4,500rpm. My pick is the 2.0 model since it is more than decent for your daily needs and can be paired with a stickshift. There is nothing wrong with the V6 since it is fast, but it lacks the refinement found in the Cefiro and not that smooth in the power bandwith since the automatic is a "fuzzy logic" that adapts to the driver's style which ends up gear hunting.
Driving Impressions
Steering the "shark" is on the slow side especially that it does not befit the aggressive image it offers. Ride quality is decent, but not that refined in the Accord and Cefiro, both benchmarks in its class. Braking is excellent and stops in a centavo (dime is too American, so let's use the Filipino equivalent)
Verdict
The downfall of the Galant's nameplate started with this generation by having some reliability problems, cheap interior trim, and a crude V6. Too bad, the nameplate was tarnished in some aspects and more potent (and competitive) rivals. Before settling with the "shark" Galant, check out other premium sedans of the age before arriving at a final decision.
The downfall of the Galant's nameplate started with this generation by having some reliability problems, cheap interior trim, and a crude V6. Too bad, the nameplate was tarnished in some aspects and more potent (and competitive) rivals. Before settling with the "shark" Galant, check out other premium sedans of the age before arriving at a final decision.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Galant (1998-2005)
The Good: Sharp styling, engines have grunt
The Bad: Tight rear seat, interior is cheap feeling
The Say: Still has some virtues, but not the best Galant.
Go For: 2.0 Super Saloon/GT-A
Avoid: 2.5 VR
Price Range: P210,000-P360,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (1998-2005)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-2005
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Galant (1988-1992)
The Good: Available GTi variant, excellent driving dynamics
The Bad: Anemic performance from 1.8, bare interior (for that time)
The Say: Truly a classic.
Go For: 2.0 Super Saloon
Avoid: 1.8 Super Saloon
Price Range: P50,000-P100,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1987-1992
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Galant (2006-2012)
The Good: Spacious, absorbs road bumps
The Bad: Not an exciting drive, dated and cheap interior trim
The Say: It has its virtues, but gets lost in the premium sedan rivalry.
Go For: SE
Avoid: There is none
Price Range: P390,000-P900,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (2006-2012)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2008
2009-2012
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