Chicago 2008: Reskinned 2009 Mitsubishi Galant seen with new nose

click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant

Mitsubishi just unveiled its freshened-for-2009 Galant sedan at the Chicago Auto Show, and unlike our favorable response to the changes made to its Eclipse sibling, we think Mitsu might need to do a hard refresh on the Galant a couple of more times before it looks as handsome as it could. The new uninterrupted grille might look better than the prior split version, but it still doesn't seem to work as well as the nose on the EVO or new Eclipse. Out back, however, the new Lancer-inspired taillights and slightly reshaped fenders are a big improvement.

As we recently reported when the info was dropped in our laps a few days ago, the 2009 Mitsubish Galant will be offered in four versions: the top-shelf Ralliart model (red car in pics), V6 Sport, four-cylinder Sport edition and the four-cylinder ES (gray). The Ralliart is still powered by a 3.8L MIVEC V6 producing 258 horsepower and uses a 5-speed Sportronic automatic transmission. The Galant V6 Sport gets a 230-hp 3.8L V6, while the two remaining models are powered by a 160-hp 2.4L MIVEC four-cylinder. The V6 models get a 5-speed Sportronic automatic, while the four-cylinders make do with four-speeds. The two Sport models (both V6 and four-cylinder versions) also feature a power glass sunroof and heated cloth front seats as standard equipment. A ho-hum enhancement for a model that never caught on after its last redesign, we think Mitsubishi missed the target on this one.

Check out Mitsu's full press release after the jump, and the new live pics in our gallery below.

The video meant to be presented here is no longer available. Sorry for the inconvenience.

PRESS RELEASE:

MITSUBISHI SHOWCASES NEW 2009 GALANT AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

CHICAGO, Feb 7, 2008 -- Mitsubishi has introduced the new 2009 Galant midsize sedan, featuring expressive new styling, new user technology and a new value standard. The performance-tuned Galant Ralliart spearheads the lineup, which for 2009 also includes the 4-cylinder ES, the new 4-cylinder Sport Edition, and the Sport V-6.

New standard factory value packages add a long roster of premium equipment to the 2009 Galant Sport models, at a substantial savings. The 2009 Galant Sport models offer a $1,000+ MSRP value advantage over comparably equipped competitive midsize models.

A 160-hp 2.4-liter MIVEC 4-cylinder engine powers the Galant ES and Sport Edition models. The Sport V-6 model exclusively features a 230-hp 3.8-liter V-6. Four-cylinder Galant models sold in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont are certified as Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicles (PZEV). All 2009 Galant models come standard with a Sportronic® automatic transmission – a 4-speed with the 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed with the V-6 engines.

The Galant Ralliart is powered by a 258-hp 3.8-liter MIVEC V-6 engine teamed to a 5-speed Sportronic transmission. Exclusive equipment includes Ralliart-tuned sport suspension, new 18-inch alloy wheels, special exterior styling and a wide array of luxury features. The Galant Ralliart can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in about six seconds.

All 2009 Galant models come standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side front and rear curtain airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The V-6 models feature standard traction control.

The Galant Sport models are equipped as standard with premium features more commonly found in top trim lines, including a power glass sunroof, premium cloth-trimmed heated front seats, automatic climate control, 8-way power driver's seat, steering wheel audio controls, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink® garage door opener/transmitter, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lights, heated side view mirrors, theft-deterrent alarm system, color-keyed rear spoiler, windshield shade band, dark chrome headlamp reflectors, and an illuminated glove box. The Galant Sport V-6 model and Ralliart also add a standard 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system that includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription.

The Galant midsize sedans, along with the Eclipse coupe and Eclipse Spyder models and the Endeavor crossover SUV, are all built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., which celebrates its 20th anniversary of vehicle production in 2008.

Mitsubishi will showcase its new 2009 Galant midsize sedan at the Chicago Auto Show, Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place. Presenting expressive new styling, new user technology and a new value standard, the 2009 Galant brings Mitsubishi performance and character to the highly competitive midsize segment. The 2009 Galant arrives at Mitsubishi dealers in February.

The introduction of the new 2009 Galant follows a rise in Mitsubishi's 2007 sales (+9% over 2006) along with a line of major new model launches. Building on the success of the all-new Lancer launched in spring 2007 and the all-new Outlander crossover SUV, Mitsubishi introduced the high-performance 2008 Lancer Evolution that arrived in dealerships in late January.

The 2009 Galant line offers four distinct trim levels and three performance levels, providing the wide array of choices that midsize buyers seek. The performance-tuned Galant Ralliart tops the line, which for 2009 also includes the 4-cylinder ES, the new 4-cylinder Sport Edition, and the V-6 Sport. The 2009 Galant Sport models integrate new standard factory value packages that add a long roster of premium equipment at a substantial savings over what those features would have cost separately. As a result, the 2009 Galant Sport models offer a significant $1,000+ MSRP value advantage over comparably equipped competitive midsize models.

Further enhancing value, all 2009 Galant models come standard with a Sportronic® automatic transmission – a 4-speed with the 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed with the two V-6 engines. Sportronic allows manual shift control for a more engaging driving experience.

The Galant midsize sedans, along with the Eclipse coupe and Eclipse Spyder sports models and the Endeavor crossover SUV, are all built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill. One of the industry's most flexible assembly plants, the Mitsubishi manufacturing facility is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary of vehicle production in 2008.

Smart Mitsubishi Styling
The 2009 Galant stands apart from the sedan crowd with a smartly styled front end and sophisticated new lines that are especially apparent in the rear three-quarter view. Rakish new hood lines, a new grille and lower intake highlight the completely re-designed front end. From the rear, the Galant features wider rear glass, new tail lamps and bumper treatment, and a new deck lid with a center, high-mounted stop-lamp (CHSL). New standard 17-inch alloy wheels identify the Galant Sport models.

Inside, premium materials enhance the Galant's interior and passenger comfort. 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. In addition, a wide array of available user technologies meets with the latest consumer demands for onboard entertainment and convenience.

Performance and Top Safety in One Package
At the top of the Galant line, the Ralliart model is powered by a 258-hp 3.8-liter MIVEC V-6 engine and equipped with a 5-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, plus special Ralliart-tuned sport suspension, new 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive exterior styling. A 160-hp 2.4-liter MIVEC 4-cylinder engine, teamed to a four-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic, powers the Galant ES and Sport Edition models. The new Sport V-6 model exclusively features a smooth, responsive 230-hp 3.8-liter V-6 engine.

Four-cylinder Galant models sold in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont are certified as Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicles (PZEV). That means that they not only meet the ultra-stringent California Super Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV) standard but also have zero evaporative emissions from the fuel system and come with an extended (15 years or 150,000 miles) warranty on emission-control components. The PZEV-certified Galant has just slightly less rated power output – 155 hp compared to 160 for the federally certified model. PZEV-certified vehicles can also be purchased in states neighboring those with the requirement.

The Galant's rigid body structure sets the stage for responsive handling and a sporty driving experience, balanced by a smooth, quiet ride. The proven MacPherson strut design front suspension attaches to a sub-frame featuring 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 inside the cabin.

All Galant models come standard with a high level of safety technology, including anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and side front and rear curtain airbags.

Galant Sport V-6 and Ralliart are both equipped with standard traction control that helps prevent wheel spin by monitoring and controlling the speed of each front drive wheel. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), standard on all Galant models, can immediately alert the driver to a sudden loss or change in tire pressure.

New Value Standard
Illustrating Mitsubishi's attention to customer value, the Galant Sport models are equipped as standard with such premium features as a power glass sunroof and cloth heated front seats. In contrast, many competitive midsize sedans offer these features only in the top trim line models. Additional premium features in the Galant Sport Edition and Galant Sport V-6 include an automatic climate control system, 8-way power driver's seat, steering wheel audio controls, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink® garage door opener/transmitter, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lights, heated side view mirrors, theft-deterrent alarm system, color-keyed rear spoiler, windshield shade band, dark chrome headlamp reflectors, and an illuminated glove box.

The Galant Sport V-6 model also adds a standard 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system that includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription.

For customers seeking top Galant luxury with 4-cylinder economy, the Galant ES model can be optionally equipped with the Sun, Sound and Leather option package. This package essentially combines the Sport Edition standard equipment with leather seating surfaces, the Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription. An accessory iPod adapter is available for all Galant models.

True Premium Audio
Galant offers a level of OEM mobile audio performance that could challenge some luxury models. The Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system that is standard for the Ralliart and Galant Sport V-6 and available for the ES model provides AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability, including a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. The system includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription.

A linear 8-channel amplifier produces 360 watts continuous at less than 0.02% THD, with a dedicated channel driving 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."

Ralliart Performance: A Complete Grand Touring 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, making it one of the best performers in its segment.

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. Its 235/45R-18 all-season tires are mounted on new 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.

In terms of standard luxury amenities, the Galant Ralliart challenges premium performance sedans by providing perforated leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, automatic climate control system, power glass sunroof and an auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink transmitter. Aluminum pedals and Micro-delta print accent panels are exclusive interior touches.

The Galant Ralliart offers one factory option, a DVD navigation system. When not equipped with the navigation system, 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.

Outstanding Warranty
Mitsubishi cars, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks are backed by comprehensive new vehicle limited warranties. Mitsubishi Eclipse, Lancer, Galant, Endeavor and Outlander vehicles come with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; along with a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. The high-performance Lancer Evolution is covered by a 5-year, 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, along with a 3-year/36,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty.

Mitsubishi pickup trucks are covered by a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty that also includes powertrain components.

All Mitsubishi vehicles have a 7-year /100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty, along with 5-years/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance, which includes free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 500 dealers.