Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA), which last year introduced the newly restyled and enhanced Galant mid-size sedan and high-performance Galant Ralliart, for 2008 simplifies the model line. In addition to the Ralliart model, the Galant DE and ES 4-cylinder models continue for 2008. The V-6 Galant GTS is discontinued. A tire pressure monitor system is standard for all Galant models for 2008.
The Galant Ralliart remains the top model in this midsize sedan range, powered by a 258-hp 3.8-liter V-6 engine and equipped with a five-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission, sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive exterior styling and interior features. The Galant Ralliart comes fully equipped, offering just one factory option, a DVD navigation system with seven-inch touch screen.
An exclusive sport mesh grille, two-tone bumpers, color-key side air dams and Ralliart badges distinguish the Galant Ralliart. Its front-end styling also stands apart from other Galant models with projector-style four-bulb ellipsoid headlamps.
The Galant DE and ES models are powered by a 160-hp MIVEC-equipped 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine teamed to a standard four-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic®, which enables manual shift control. The 4-cylinder Galant models achieve EPA fuel mileage estimates of 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway.
The Galant achieved across-the-board five-star ratings in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offset frontal and side impact crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded Galant its highest ranking - "Good" overall - in its frontal offset and side impact crash tests. All Galant models are equipped with standard side curtain air bags, advanced front air bags with occupant sensors and front seat-mounted side-impact air bags. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is standard on all Galant models, except the DE.
Ralliart: A Complete Grand Touring Performance Package
Galant Ralliart has the heart of a high-performance GT car - the Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, to be precise. Its 3.8-liter V-6 produces 258 hp at 5,700 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,500 rpm. Galant Ralliart is capable of accelerating from zero-to-60 mph in about six seconds.
The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system helps optimize power and engine efficiency across a broad engine speed range. As an example of MIVEC's benefits, the large-displacement V-6 is already producing 220 lb.-ft. of torque at just 2,000 rpm, giving the Galant Ralliart forceful off-the-line response.
The Galant Ralliart features its own sport-tuned suspension with higher-rate springs and dampers and a 21-mm rear stabilizer bar. The Ralliart's 235/45R-18 all-season tires are mounted to 18 x 8-inch seven-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. All Galant models are equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, with the Ralliart model featuring larger front and rear discs than the other models.
Inside, Galant Ralliart combines exclusive design and luxurious appointments to rival more expensive models. Standard features in this special model include perforated leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, an automatic climate control system, a power glass sunroof with sunshade, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink™ transmitter. Aluminum pedals and Micro-delta print accent panels are sporty touches to the Ralliart interior.
When not equipped with its optional navigation system, Galant Ralliart features a standard 4.9-inch color LCD display that provides outside temperature and a compass, as well as a trip computer with fuel mileage information, a door alarm indicator, maintenance recorder, and calendar. The display also provides an interface that allows owners to customize settings for many of the vehicle's interior functions.
Driving Music
Galant Raliart features as standard the Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system, which is also available as part of the optional Sport Package in the ES model. This high-end audio system provides AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability, including a 6-disc in-dash CD changer.
The system's linear 8-channel amplifier produces 360 watts continuous at less than 0.02% THD. A dedicated channel drives each loudspeaker for the ultimate in sonic control. Silk dome tweeters mounted on the leading edge of the dash produce a natural multi-dimensional soundstage. Digital Signal Processing optimizes output to provide user-selectable listening environments, including "Normal," "Studio," "Club" and "Concert." The good sounds continue in Galant Ralliart with the standard SIRIUS® Satellite Radio package with a six-month pre-paid subscription.
Robust Platform for Sporty Driving
The Galant's rigid body structure sets the stage for responsive handling and an engaging driving experience, balanced by a smooth, quiet ride. The proven MacPherson strut design front suspension attaches to a sub-frame with a large, rigid cross member. The low-mounted, multi-link rear suspension features stiff hydro-formed cross members that minimize flex and help reduce road noise. The Galant DE and ES models ride on standard 16-inch wheels with 215/60R16 tires.
Premium Comfort, Excellent Value
Galant provides a roomy midsize package with 101.1 cu. ft. of passenger space and a generous 37 inches of rear legroom. Interior fabrics and surfaces are designed to impart comfort, warmth and refinement.
The optional Sport Package infuses the Galant ES with extra style and function. Outside, the package equips this model with 16-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, dark bezel halogen headlamps, crystal covered ellipsoid rear lamps, color-keyed side mirrors and a rear spoiler. Inside, the Sport Package installs the powerful Rockford Acoustic Design premium audio system, along with a Sport-touch steering wheel and an illuminated ignition key cylinder and glove box. Underscoring the outstanding value of this option (MSRP $1,000), the ES Sport Package also adds an anti-theft alarm system and SIRIUS Satellite Radio package with a 6-month pre-paid subscription.
All Galant models are built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., one of the industry's most flexible assembly plants. In addition to the Galant, this facility produces the Endeavor mid-size SUV, the Eclipse coupe and the Eclipse Spyder models.
Source: Mitsubishi
