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The Galant name has been used by Mitsubishi Motors for a number of years, beginning in 1969. The name is a derivative of the French word ‘gallan’, meaning valiant. When first introduced, it was a compact sedan only sold in Japan; it has since evolved slowly into a larger mid-sized vehicle and sold in many countries.

In December of 1969, the Galant, initially known as the Colt Galant, was introduced. Under the hood was a 1.3-liter engine; an optional 1.5-liter unit was also available. It was available as a four-door sedan only; a two-door hardtop version was introduced a year later, in 1970. The design of the vehicle was dubbed by Mitsubishi as ‘Dynawedge’, in reference to the vehicles aerodynamics and wedge-shaped silhouette.

In 1971 it was offered for sale in the US, making it the first Mitsubishi model to be sold in the US. The car was imported by the Chrysler Corporation, and renamed the Dodge Colt. The Galant GTO fastback coupe quickly followed, introduced in 1970, and aimed at the performance-minded American population. This model remained in production until 1975.

Price: $19,995 – 27,145
Invoice: $19,070 – 25,615

The second iteration of the Galant was introduced in 1973. Chrysler sold the car in the United States under the nameplate ‘Dodge Colt.’ In Canada, the car was known as the Plymouth Colt and Plymouth Cricket. In Europe the car was sold as the Colt Galant and in Australia it was called the Chrysler Valiant Galant.

This second generation Galant brought with it styling changes that included a more curvaceous body. It was offered as a 2-door coupe and a four-door sedan. Under the hood was a Astron engine that developed around 125 PS. Production of the second generation Galant continued until 1975. In 1976, third iteration of the Galant was introduced.

It was known as the Galant S (Sigma). The Dodge Colt name persisted in America; in Australia it was dubbed the Chrysler Sigma; in most other export markets it was known as the Galant. This third generation of the Galant was available in four-door sedan configuration and as a five-door station wagon. A variety of engines were offered, included a 1.6-, 1.85-, 2.0-, and 2.6-liter.

In 1977, the Galant was named South Africa’s ‘Car of the Year’ award. The fourth generation of the Galant was introduced in 1980 and remained in production for only a few years, lasting until 1983. It brought with it many new and necessary improvements and innovations. The big news was the turbocharged engine which greatly increased the vehicles performance. A diesel version of the engine was also available, which offered great gas mileage.

In 1981, it was claimed as New Zealands ‘Car of the Year. From 1984 through 1990, the fifth generation of the Galant was produced. The big change for this series was the change from rear-wheel drive configuration, to front-wheel drive. The styling was improved, now featuring edgy lines. The GL trim had a 1.6-liter engine; the GLS had a 2.0-liter petrol or 1.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine. The 2.0-liter ECi, meaning Advanced Electronically Controlled fuel injection, was the performance version of the Galant. ABS and servo-steering system was offered as optional equipment, as was the digital dash.

The sixth generation of the Galant shared the same platform as the series it was replacing. Styling changed, now becoming more round and less ‘edgy.’ Japan awarded ti the ‘Car of the Year’ in 1987, and Motor Trend hailed it as the ‘Import Car of the Year’ in 1989. The car was powered by a variety of engines, beginning with a 1.6-liter unit and climaxing with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produced nearly 200 horsepower. The base gearbox was a five-speed manual unit, with a four-speed automatic offered as optional equipment. 4WD could also be purchased for the vehicle.

This version of the Galant was the first to see the VR-4 variant, which would become Mitsubishi’s entrant in the World Rally Championship series from 1988 through 1992. Later, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution would adopt the 2-liter DOHC turbocharged engine and 4WD layout. The seventh generation of the Galant was introduced in 1992, coming to the US in 1994, and remaining in production until 1998. The nameplate ‘Galant’ was now a familiar name, having been in production for many years and sold throughout the world. Power was from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic was still available for an additional cost.

The next generation had minor aesthetic changes from the prior series. New for this series was the station wagon; the liftback was no longer available. Production of the eight-generation Galant lasted from 1996 through 2006. The car had now evolved into a mid-sized vehicle, with power coming from four and six cylinder engines. There were 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines. In the V6 category, there were 2.5, and 3.0-liter displacement sizes, with a twin-turbocharger being offered as optional equipment.

The Mitsubishi Lancer sport sedan is, dollar for dollar, easily one of the most appealing vehicles in its highly competitive category. But this attractive and refined compact sports sedan further sets itself apart from its competitors for the new model year thanks to new features that improve the vehicle’s fuel-efficiency and fun factor. All four versions of the Lancer sports sedan return in 2011: The low-priced/well-equipped Lancer DE, the feature-packed Lancer ES, the more powerful Lancer GTS and the extremely capable, hard-charging Lancer Ralliart that packs a turbocharged punch and exceptional agility thanks to its advanced all-wheel drive system.

Price: $14,995 – 40,995.
Invoice: $14,365 – 38,635.

Drivetrain

A multifaceted mix of exceptionally well-engineered drivetrains are available across the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer model spectrum. Setting the Lancer DE and ES variants in motion is an excellent 4-cylinder normally-aspirated engine that provides spirited performance (this 4B11 engine serves as the foundation of the legendary Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution ultra-high-performance sports sedan) and fuel efficiency. With a displacement of 2.0-liters (1998 cc), the bore and stroke of this engine measure an equal 3.4 x 3.4 in. (86.0 x 86.0 mm), making it a ‘square’ design. Both the engine block and cylinder head are composed entirely of aluminum alloy for exceptional strength wîth reduced mass when compared to cast iron. With a compression ratio of 10:1, this DOHC MIVEC 16-valve engine produces a lively 152 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 146 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm.

The engines found under the hood of Lancer DE and ES vehicles sold in the state of California have received the very eco-friendly Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) rating, coming wîth just a slight sacrifice in horsepower at 143 bhp (the torque rating of this PZEV engine is only down by 3 lb.-ft. to 143). Directing power to the Lancer DE’s front wheels is a clean-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, while the Lancer ES benefits from a choice of either this 5-speed manual transmission as part of the standard equivalent package or consumers may choose to upgrade to a high-tech continuously variable transmission (CVT) wîth INVEC-III.

For those seeking more power there is the Lancer GTS model and its larger 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces an additional 20 bhp over the Lancer DE and ES models; its maximum power output is rated at 168 bhp at 6,000 rpm (161 horsepower for the PZEV-rated cars in California) and 167 lb.-ft. of torque (PZEV – 161 lb.-ft.). Like the previously mentioned Lancer models, the GTS is equipped as standard wîth Mitsubishi’s refined 5-speed manual gearbox but also has an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) wîth INVEC III that also has the added benefit of Mitsubishi’s driver-oriented Sportronic® technology that allows the operator to shift gears via magnesium §teering wheel paddle shifters.

But for all-out driving excitement, the smartest choice is the Lancer Ralliart and its dynamic turbocharged engine and lightning quick-shifting 6-speed automated manual gearbox. Based largely on the architectural underpinnings of the highly energetic turbocharged engine found in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, this 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled 4-cylinder engine produces a vigorous 237 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a tarmac-twisting 253 lb.-ft. of torque across a wide swath of the tachometer – from a lowly 2,500 rpm right through to 4,750 rpm.

Feeding this power to all four wheels – the Lancer Ralliart features Mitsubishi’s advanced full-time All-Wheel Control (AWC) system and this Japanese auto manufacturer’s miraculous Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST). This revolutionary transmission allows the driver to have all the fun and engine control benefits of a manual transmission, but without the need for clutch pedal. By using two clutches and advanced hydraulics and electronic controls, this transmission can select two gears at a time and instantaneously swap one gear for another – making for instantaneous upshifts or downshifts. What’s more, electronic engine controls ‘blip’ the throttle to perfectly match engine speed and gear changes.

Power Steering

Both the Lancer DE and ES models now include Mitsubishi’s technically-advanced electric assist power §teering system that decreases parasitic, fuel-robbing drag on the engine while still maintaining excellent §teering feel for the driver as standard equipment.

HandsFree Link System

Included free of charge on every 2011 Lancer GTS and Ralliart model is Mitsubishi’s excellent FÚSE HandsFree Link System™ that allows access to your phone, iPod®, or ÚSB drive simply by the sound of your voice. By using voice commands, you can play your favorite songs by genre, artist, album or playlist and make hands-free phone calls. ÚSB Port (Lancer GTS and Ralliart; optional Lancer ES). Available on the Lancer ES and standard on the Lancer GTS and Ralliart is a handy ÚSB input port operating popular portable electronic devices including an iPod®.

Chassis & Design

Good looks aren’t the only thing that the 2011 Lancer sports sedan shares wîth its legendary big brother, the world-renowned 4-door wîth supercar-like speed and maneuverability, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. True, both the Lancer and the Lancer Evolution possess distinctive wedge-shaped silhouettes and that unmistakable face wîth its aggressively stretched headlamps and prominent upper and lower grille sections. But this dynamic duo share so much more beneath the skin.

The exceptionally well-engineered and structurally-rigid platform that underpins both the Lancer and the Lancer Evolution can also be found in the equally stylish and award-winning Outlander crossover utility vehicle and the all-new 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport compact crossover utility vehicle. A MacPherson strut suspension design and an advanced multi-link rear suspension give all of the Lancer models excellent suspension compliance while also offering a high threshold of grip and maneuverability. Providing additional handling capability are the front and rear anti-sway bars of varying thicknesses that can be found across the entire Lancer model range, save for the base model Lancer DE which possesses a front stabilizer bar but none for the rear.

But the closest kissing cousin to that of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is the Lancer Ralliart. Not only does this model feature a highly potent turbocharged and intercooled engine similar to that found under the lightweight aluminum hood of the Lancer Evolution (in this case detuned from the Evolution’s 291 horsepower to a still very respectable 237 bhp) but the Ralliart also includes many of the high-tech dynamic driving aids that make the Lancer Evolution so special. These include Mitsubishi’s miraculously fast-shifting 6-speed automated manual Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) and the road-biting level of grip offered by the full-time All-Wheel Control (AWC) system that includes an Active Center Differential (ACD) and a front helical limited slip-differential, accompanied by a rear limited-slip differential.

All 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer vehicles overflow wîth an abundance of the latest in state-of-the-art safety technologies included as standard equipment. These include advanced dual-stage front air bags wîth occupant seat position sensors; side-impact head protection curtain air bags for the front and rear occupants; front seat-mounted side air bags; a driver’s side knee air bag; anti-lock braking system (ABS) wîth Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL); an active front seat structure to help reduce whiplash injuries; a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); and Mitsubishi’s patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) chassis technology that helps to protect the vehicle’s occupants by dissipating energy through the use of crumple zones and high-tensile steel throughout the chassis. Included as standard on the Lancer Sportback Ralliart model is Mitsubishi’s Hill Start Assist (HSA) technology that, when the vehicle is descending a grade or ascending a slope, will hold the car in a stationary position for several seconds after the driver has removed their foot from the brake pedal until they can engage the gas pedal.

With its incomparable head-turning styling, well-appointed cabin, roomy accommodations for up to seven, and outstanding 5-Star safety rating, the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander truly exemplifies the Japanese auto manufacturer’s ‘different for a reason’ attitude that separates this car from its garden-variety crossover utility vehicle (CÚV) competition.And wîth an assortment of Outlander models available for the 2011 model year in both 2WD (ES, SE and XLS trim levels) and all-wheel drive (SE and the stellar amenity and technology-packed GT model), there is a version of this stylish and highly-efficient crossover that is a perfect fit for every young family’s wallet and/or lifestyle.

Price: $21,995 – 27,795.
Invoice: $21,065 – 26,625.

Test Rating

In crash testing conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Mitsubishi Outlander has received the highest test score possible – a 5-Star rating – in several key crash tests undertaken by this governmental regulatory agency’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) including ‘Frontal Driver Rating,’ ‘Frontal Passenger Rating,’ ‘Side Driver Rating’ and ‘Side Rear Passenger Rating’ controlled crash test evaluations. These 5-Star ratings apply to all Outlander models and signify that the car’s excellent engineering and included safety systems offer exceptional protection to both the driver and passengers in the event of front and side impact collisions.

Every 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander model features a wide array of advanced safety features as standard equipment. Among the long list are advanced dual-stage front air bags wîth seat positions sensors; side-impact curtain air bags (1st and 2nd row occupants); front seat thorax side air bags; active front seat headrests and head impact absorption roof and pillar trim. Electronically-controlled dynamic driving aids that help improve the driver’s ability to control the car in adverse weather or traction situations include anti-lock brakes (ABS) wîth Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL). A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that can alert the driver should the air pressure decrease below an acceptable level within a tire is also included at no cost to the consumer.

Other design elements to the Outlander crossover that help protect all of the vehicle’s occupants are a lightweight all-aluminum roof structure that helps lower the vehicle’s center of gravity for improved handling capability and stability (since aluminum is lighter than steel, a byproduct of this feature is that it helps to contribute to improved overall fuel economy as well) and the implementation of Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE), a patented safety body construction system that allows the Outlander’s chassis to act as a rigid safety cell to help protect the vehicle’s occupants while also absorbing energy in the event of a front or rear collision.

Introduced just last year as a 2010 model, the top-tier Outlander GT takes safety a step further wîth even more advanced driver control features including Hill Start Assist (HSA) that maintains the vehicle’s stationery position on an incline for several seconds even after the driver has removed their foot from the brake pedal prior to engaging the accelerator pedal. Even more significant is this model’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that employs an Active Center Differential (ACD) and an electronically-controlled center differential system that not only sends power from the engine to the front or rear wheels but also routes power to the left or right front wheels for maximum traction. What’s more, the driver can utilize a ‘Tarmac, Snow, or Lock’ selector knob to manually switch between modes for the best setting in adverse weather.

Engines And Transmissions

Matching the all-around versatility of the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander are a pair of available engines that are more than up to the task of providing the motive force behind the company’s best-selling crossover. Available wîth either the ES or SE Outlander models is a workhorse DOHC 16-valve 2.4-liter (2360 cc) normally-aspirated inline-4 engine that features Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) to maximize power production, improve fuel efficiency and minimize exhaust emissions. Útilizing an aluminum block and head, a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and a bore and stroke of 88.0 x 97.0 mm, this engine produces 167 horsepower at 6,000 rpm (161 bhp at 6,000 rpm for the PZEV-rated version) and has 167 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,100 rpm (161 lb.-ft. at 4100 rpm PZEV). This engine has a 6,500 rpm redline and can run on regular unleaded-grade fuel as an added lower cost benefit of operation.

Of note, the lower-emission PZEV version of this engine is only available on the 2WD iteration of either the ES or SE Outlander models in the state of California. This engine is paired wîth Mitsubishi’s highly-efficient Sportronic® continuously-variable transmission (CVT) on both ES and SE models, but the latter trim level has the added benefit of sporty §teering wheel-mounted magnesium-alloy paddle shifters that allow the driver to manually make gear changes wîth the CVT. The towing capacity of this drivetrain is rated at 1500 lbs.

Both of the more upscale Outlander models – the XLS and the superior GT – make use of a 3.0-liter (2998 cc) normally-aspirated MIVEC-equipped SOHC V-6 engine that directs power to the driven wheels via a responsive 6-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission wîth Mitsubishi’s smart Idle-Neutral Logic technology that intuitively switches the car to neutral whenever the car comes to a complete stop, helping to reduce fuel consumption. Like the 4-cylinder engine, this 6-cylinder powerplant has its block and cylinder heads composed entirely of aluminum-alloy, has a 6,500 rpm redline and a 10.5:1 compression ratio. The bore and stroke measure 87.6 x 82.9 mm, wîth power rated at 230 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 215 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm. The Outlander GT model packs plenty of toy-pulling power wîth a maximum towing capacity of a full 3,500 lbs. (the 2WD Outlander XLS has a rating of 2,000 lbs.).

Engineered for Agility

In addition to the aforementioned lightweight aluminum roof, the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander crossover is equipped wîth a finely-tuned independent suspension at all four corners as well as a very stout braking system, along wîth variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion §teering that helps give the driver excellent §teering feel, competent stopping power and a firm but compliant ride quality that feels more like a well-engineered sedan than the typical crossover vehicle.

These refined driving characteristics can be attributed to the Outlander’s MacPherson strut suspension up front and multi-link suspension in the rear of the vehicle, large-diameter front and rear stabilizer bars (22 mm up front, 20 mm at the rear) and large disc brakes (11.6-in. ventilated discs in front wîth even bigger 11.9-in. solid discs at the rear). The Outlander’s exceptionally rigid platform – the same structural underpinning that makes up the foundation of the all-new 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport compact crossover – also aids the vehicle’s exceptionally capable driving dynamics and refined ride quality.

Equipment and Accessories

All 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander models come equipped wîth a wide array of standard amenities and convenience features. These include air conditioning wîth micron air filtration; auto off headlights; intermittent rear window wiper/washer and electric rear window defroster wîth timer; rear combination LED tail lamps wîth clear lenses; fully-flat-folding 1st and 2nd row seating; 60:40 rear split-fold 2nd row seats; multiple 12V accessory outlets; anti-theft security alarm system and engine immobilizer; remote keyless entry wîth panic alarm feature; cruise and audio controls wîth §teering wheel-mounted switches; leather-wrapped §teering wheel and shift knob; MP3/auxiliary stereo RCA input and a fabulous-sounding 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 player wîth 6 speakers, digital signal processor, equalization control and speed compensated volume.

The more upscale Outlander XLS and GT models offer an even longer list of luxury features including automatic climate control wîth micron air filtration; chrome-trimmed HVAC controls; FAST-Key passive entry and starting system wîth panic alarm feature; a front mesh grille wîth chrome surround; fog lights wîth chrome surround; dual exhaust; attractive 18-in. alloy wheels; and an available rich-sounding 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® premium sound system wîth 6 CD/MP3 in-dash changer, 9 speakers including a 10-in. dual-voice coil subwoofer wîth Punch® control, digital signal processor, 3-band equalization and speed compensated volume, an MP3/auxiliary stereo RCA input and a 3-month pre-paid subscription to SIRIÚS® satellite radio.

The very convenient and richly-appointed Navigation & Sunroof package is now included as standard equipment on both 2WD and AWD variants of Mitsubishi’s top-of-the-line Endeavor SE model crossover. Lavish accessories included in this package are an informative and easy to use DVD-based touch-screen navigation system, a rear view back-up camera, a power sunroof and a cargo cover for the rear storage area.

Pricw: $28,295 – 33,595.
Invoice: $27,105 – 32,185.

Spacious and Stately

The 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor mid-size crossover is an excellent combination of roomy versatility and capability wîth an impressive amount of welcome niceties. Capable of carrying up to five people, all occupants will find the Endeavor’s comfortable and spacious seats, crisp handling and quiet cabin to be welcome relief from the cramped and/or noisy confines of some of the similarly-sized sport utility vehicle (SÚV) competitors of this well-engineered Mitsubishi crossover that don’t possess its solid unibody construction and confident handling capabilities.

Whether carrying groceries, a full complement of camping gear for a weekend in the woods or picking up several sheets of four-foot-wide plywood, the 2011 Endeavor can easily accommodate it all, thanks to hand its 60/40 split/fold-flat rear seat backs and a full 76.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity (a plentiful 40.7 cu. ft. is available in the rear cargo section wîth the rear seat backs in the up position).

Endeavor owners and their passengers are further put at ease by the car’s impressive list of included features, among them air-conditioning (automatic climate control in the Endeavor SE); premium fabric seating surfaces (rich-texture leather seating surfaces in the Endeavor SE); and exquisite sounding 6 speaker AM/FM/CD sound system wîth MP3 playback capability (the Endeavor SE’s sound system is an even more amazing 360-watt Rockford-Fosgate® 6 CD/MP3 sound system wîth digital sound processing and 9 speakers including an 8-in. subwoofer; §teering wheel-mounted audio controls and a 3-month pre-paid subscription to SIRIÚS® satellite radio) and other convenient touches including a hands-free Bluetooth® system wîth voice recognition; §teering column-mounted cruise control; and numerous cupholders, front and rear map lights, a pair of 12V power outlets, carpeted front floor mats and, in the upscale Endeavor SE, heated front seats.

Other welcome no-cost features included on all Endeavors are eye-catching ice-blue LED illumination of instruments and controls; 17 x 7-in. 7-spoke alloy wheels (larger 18 x 8-in. 5-spoke alloy wheels on the Endeavor SE); large, easy to read gauges wîth chrome trim; auto-off headlamps; parabolic fog lights; alarm system; variable intermittent windshield wipers; tubular roof rails; chrome front grill; and an anti-theft engine immobilizer.

Engine

With its polished performance and proficient power, it’s no wonder that Mitsubishi’s engineers elected to use a single engine across the Endeavor line. The 3.8-liter SOHC 24-valve V-6 that powers the 2011 Endeavor provides plenty of power to this stylish crossover vehicle wîth virtually no vibration, harshness or noise detected within the nicely-appointed cabin. Consisting of an extremely strong cast-iron engine block wîth light weight aluminum cylinder heads and featuring a compression ratio of 10.0:1, this 3,828 cc normally-aspirated powerplant produces a welcome 225 hp at 5,000 rpm and an even more generous 255 lb.-ft. of torque at a lower 3,750 rpm from its sublimely smooth operating six cylinders.

Running on unleaded fuel, this engine has been granted the very clean Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) status for all 50 states. This engine’s bore and stroke measure 3.74 x 3.54 in. (95.0 x 90.0 mm). All the 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor engines have been paired wîth an equally quiet and silky 4-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission wîth INVECS-II technology that allows the driver to manually make gear changes wîth the gearshift lever when so desired. The FWD Endeavor LS and SE, along wîth the all-wheel drive version of the SE, engage identical gear ratios within their transmissions, save for the final drive ratios (the front wheel drive Endeavor has a final drive of 4.011 to the all-wheel drive model’s 4.316).

Chassis

The Endeavor is equally at home on smooth ribbons of pristine asphalt on the way to the office as it is tackling a rough-and-tumble dirt road when venturing off the beaten path. A great deal of this on- or off-road driving aplomb is no doubt due to this crossover’s excellent, well-damped suspension design that features independent MacPherson struts wîth coil springs up front (including gas charge strut inserts) along wîth a coil spring independent multi-link wîth trailing arms suspension design and gas charged shocks at the rear of the vehicle. Further aiding the vehicle’s fine handling at speed on freeways or city streets are front and rear stabilizer bars that help diminish body roll that measure 24.0 mm thick at the front and 20.0 mm at the rear (an even thicker 22 mm anti-roll bar for the all-wheel drive Endeavor SE).

For even better handling and tractability in off-road driving, consumers would be wise to opt for the top-of-the-line Endeavor SE model wîth all-wheel drive. Its AWD system can provide an even 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels, thanks to a transfer case wîth a center differential that has a viscous coupling. In good weather or bad, on road or off, this all-wheel drive system vastly improves overall grip when compared to the levels of traction offered by a front-wheel drive vehicle.

Interior Design and Special Features

Inside, the 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor boasts a roomy cabin that can accommodate five taller adults with well-shaped seats that provide ample comfort for long-distance trips. Interior design and materials are hit-and-miss, with blocky, utilitarian shapes and an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. At night, a cool blue glow emanates from the instruments and center stack, giving the cabin a more modern appearance. Luggage space behind the second-row seats provides up to 40.7 cubic feet. With those seats folded, up to 76 cubes can be accommodated. This is only about 3 cubic feet more than the newer Outlander, but is still above average and should be adequate for most families. Those requiring more cargo space will find it in the Chevrolet Traverse and Hyundai Veracruz, along with a third row of seats.

Powertrains and Performance

All 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavors are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 225 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is the only available transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with AWD offered at additional cost on the SE trim. Although the Endeavor lacks the higher horsepower of its competition, its V6′s torque output is ample enough to give it some decent punch. Fuel economy, however, is unimpressive. The front-wheel-drive model’s 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined are below average for a midsize crossover. The all-wheel-drive Endeavor checks in at 15/19/17 mpg. Properly equipped, the Endeavor can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Safety

The Mitsubishi Endeavor has achieved the highest test score of a 5-Star rating for both frontal (driver) and side impact (front and rear seat) crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the Endeavor its highest-ranking – ‘Good’ overall – in the organization’s frontal offset crash test.

These well-earned scores from respected automotive safety agencies are the result of the company’s commitment to engineering excellence as witnessed by Mitsubishi’s patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety automotive body construction system that helps to minimize injury to its vehicle’s occupants as well as its inclusion of advanced safety features and technologies as standard equipment on the Endeavor. These include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) wîth occupant sensors; front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and rollover-sensing side curtain air bags; an anti-lock braking system (ABS) wîth Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL); and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The 2011 Mitsubishi Galant luxury sports sedan enters the new model year wîth one of the best standard luxury equipment packages for its price point of any mid-size 4-door vehicle available in the marketplace today. Add the car’s distinctive styling, terrific fuel efficiency and excellent ergonomics into the mix and the amenity-packed, fun-to-drive Galant becomes a consideration for the car-shopping consumer unlike any other. The mid-size Galant sedan – available in a base ES model and the more upscale, bargain-priced SE version – joins the versatile Endeavor crossover SÚV and Mitsubishi’s firebrand Eclipse Coupe/Eclipse Spyder sports machines as vehicles that are manufactured at the company’s factory in Normal, Illinois, an assembly plant that will celebrate its 23rd anniversary of producing high-quality vehicles in 2011.

Price: $21,595 – 23,995.
Invoice: $20,685 – 22,985.

Styling

With its crisp, neatly folded exterior sheetmetal and pleasing proportions, the handsome 2011 Mitsubishi Galant mid-size luxury sports sedan certainly stands apart from other vehicles in its class. Notable in its good-lòòking design is its prominent front fascia which features a very bold-lòòking silver painted mesh grille. Squared-off headlights that contain a smaller pair of lamps stacked one on top of the other at the outer edges are also a styling tour de force. The prominent creases along the hood give the design a brawny look. Without question, the front end styling of this sedan is truly unlike any other. Viewed in profile, the Galant’s gently curving greenhouse is a wonderful contrast to the rest of the car’s straight-edged design aesthetic. A futuristic-lòòking yet elegant ‘cat’s eye’ taillight design and a sporty trunk lid-mounted lip spoiler (the latter element included on the Galant SE wîth Leather package) can’t help but please the discerning eye.

Front and center inside the Galant’s warm-lòòking interior is the tall center console waterfall that is done up in a handsome silver finish, its controls a thoughtful blend of knobs and buttons that never overwhelm the senses both visually and in functionality. Perched atop the center stack in the Galant SE is a very intuitive, 7-in. touch-screen DVD-based navigation system; a convenient rear backup camera system is also included. A chrome shift lever gate and thin strips of silver-colored trim that line the gauge faces and lay horizontally across the dashboard top off a rich-lòòking interior design deserving of a vehicle that should cost thousands of dollars more than the Galant’s very attainable price point.

All 2011 Mitsubishi Galant models are powered by a venerable 2.4-liter, 16-valve SOHC inline-4-cylinder engine that features Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) for improved power production, fuel economy and lower emissions. This engine produces 160 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 157 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. A variation of this powerplant that has been certified as a Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) is available for sale in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont and produces slightly less horsepower wîth a rating of 155 bhp. A 4-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission that gives the driver the option of manually shifting gears when desired is standard equipment. This quiet and efficient powertrain not only produces outstanding fuel economy wîth a highway rating of 30 mpg but also saves its owner additional money at the pump as this engine runs on regular-grade unleaded fuel.

Chassis

Thanks to the Galant’s rigid chassis and ideally-placed sound insulation, occupants are treated to a hushed ride from a well-engineered platform that keeps sound intrusion to a minimum. Thoughtful design can also be found in the car’s independent suspension – a MacPherson strut configuration wîth coil springs that reside in a sub-frame up front and a low-mount multi-link setup in the rear of the vehicle – allowing for supple suspension damping that soaks up road irregularities wîth aplomb along wîth providing responsive handling.

In keeping wîth the ‘more vehicle for the money’ theme of the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant luxury sport sedan, this stylish 4-door is equipped wîth numerous state-of-the-art safety features and technologies to help protect the driver and all occupants including dual-stage front air bags, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and side front and rear curtain airbags, along wîth anti-lock brakes (ABS) wîth Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control Logic (TCL) and Active Stability Control (ASC) that help keep the driver in control even in poor road conditions. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is also included at no additional cost to the consumer.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Mitsubishi Galant’s cabin hails from a brief period of time when silver-painted control stacks were the hip thing. That day has passed, and now the Galant’s stereo and climate controls look as if they came from an old boombox and can be difficult to read at a glance besides. Furthermore, the quality of the materials has become subpar. Most plastics and other surfaces just don’t match the refined look and feel of the Galant’s many more desirable competitors. There’s also no telescoping steering wheel, a glaring omission in this class.

On the upside, the passenger package is relatively roomy considering the Galant’s size, and the seats prove to be softly cushioned. The trunk offers 13.3 cubic feet of capacity, just a foot or two less than the competition although the opening is usefully wide. The rear seat does not fold down to permit cargo volume to be enlarged, and although there’s a ski pass-through, the rear seats do not fold down.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

The 2011 Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize sedan available in ES and SE trim levels. Standard features on the ES include 16-inch steel wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-only steering wheel, cruise control, driver-seat height adjustment and a six-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The SE adds a power sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a back-up camera, heated mirrors, a rear spoiler, automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel (with audio controls), an eight-way power driver seat (includes lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, Bluetooth, navigation system, color LCD screen and an eight-speaker Rockford Acoustic Design audio system with six-CD changer and satellite radio. Apart from a Leather package for the SE (which includes leather upholstery and a rear spoiler), there are no factory-installed options for the Galant. However, there are a number of worthwhile dealer-installed accessories including an iPod interface, a back-up camera (ES) and remote engine start.

Powertrains and Performance

Every Mitsubishi Galant is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine attached to a four-speed automatic. Output is 160 hp and 157 pound-feet of torque, totals that trail those from almost all of the Galant’s competition. Fuel economy is an estimated 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

Safety

The 2011 Mitsubishi Galant comes standard with stability control, antilock brakes, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the Galant achieved four out of five stars for driver protection in a frontal crash and five stars in all other front and side crash categories. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Galant its highest rating of “Good” in the frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

Driving Impression

With only 160 hp charged with moving 3,400 pounds of Galant, there’s not much in the way of straight-line thrust. Nevertheless, once underway the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant maintains a flat, predictable stance and feels smaller than it is. A surprising amount of road feel is communicated through the driver seat and the steering. Although the steering is a little vague on-center, it is quick and responsive. None of this entertainment comes at the expense of ride quality, which is smooth, forgiving and ideal for weekday commutes.

The 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission-equipped Eclipse GS, the well-appointed mid-grade Eclipse GS Sport with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the top-of-the-line Eclipse GT and its enthusiast driver-oriented 5-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission with manual shifting capability – the Eclipse Coupe is produced right here in the United States alongside the company’s family-friendly Endeavor crossover SUV, the affordably-priced but remarkably well-equipped mid-size Galant luxury sports sedan, and the Eclipse Coupe’s top-down sibling, the Eclipse Spyder.

Price: $18,995 – 32,595.
Invoice: $18,355 – 30,855.

Black Painted Roof

For 2011, the Mitsubishi Eclipse reveals its dark side. All Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe models – the base GS, the mid-grade GS Sport and the plush GT – now feature a very eye-catching greenhouse painted in black that is sandwiched between body-colored sheetmetal that stretches from the sweeping A- to C-pillars. This exciting new design element is not only aesthetically pleasing but pays tribute to the highly-successful original first-generation Eclipse Coupe that possessed a similarly dark-colored dome.

Ride Height Reduction

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe now sports a ride height that has been lowered by over half an inch (15 mm), giving this remarkable sports car a sharper-looking, lower-profile stance. This reduced vehicle ride height has the additional benefit of slightly decreasing the car’s aerodynamic drag, which helps to improve the Eclipse Coupe’s overall fuel economy.

At the front, the blacked-out upper and lower grille sections that are bisected by an equally dark-colored front bumper insert look tall and imposing and give the 2011 Eclipse Coupe an aggressive, somewhat similar front fascia design to the signature smile of the company’s ultra-high-performance Lancer Evolution sports sedan and the dynamic, all-new Outlander Sport compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV).

Luxury Features

All 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupes include a full complement of luxury amenities and features as part of a plentiful standard equipment package. Included items are a melodious 140-watt AM/FM/CD player with MP3 compatibility, 6 speakers and auxiliary audio input jacks; automatic headlamp shut off; anti-theft alarm system; cruise control; ice-blue LED illumination of the controls and instrumentation; air conditioning; remote keyless entry; tilt steering column with sport-wrapped leather steering wheel and power windows, side mirrors and door locks. Standard exterior features on all 2011 Eclipse Coupes include halogen headlamps; sharp-looking 18-in. alloy wheels; dual exhaust outlets with polished tips; eye-catching, clear chrome LED tail lamps and 2-tone color-keyed bumpers.

For the 2011 model year, the entry-level Eclipse Spyder GS Sport adds a plethora of high-end luxury amenities to its already heavily-appointed standard equipment package. Among the new additions are leather seating surfaces; heated front seats and side view mirrors; power driver’s seat; very attractive 18-in. alloy wheels; high intensity discharge (HID) headlights; and aluminum pedals and entrance sills. Many automobile manufacturers charge consumers thousands of dollars extra for such upmarket accessories, but the 2011 Eclipse Spyder GS Sport includes them free of charge.

Powertrains

Befitting the 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe’s snazzy styling and sporty handling are two distinct available engines.Powering both the Eclipse GS and the Eclipse GS Sport is a capable 2.4-liter SOHC 16-valve normally-aspirated 4-cylinder engine that makes use of Mitsubishi Intelligent Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) for maximum power production, fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. Utilizing a cast-iron engine block and an aluminum cylinder head, this engine creates 162 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at an even 4,000 rpm; redline occurs at 6,500 rpm. The base model Eclipse GS features two available transmissions – a crisp-shifting 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission – the mid-grade Eclipse GS Sport is equipped with the 4-speed automatic transmission. Eager and smooth-revving, this 2.4-liter four-cylinder powerplant gets the job done in fun and efficient fashion with a highway fuel economy rating of 28 mpg.

The premium Eclipse GT model, however, is an even better fit with Mitsubishi’s signature sports coupe as its included V-6 engine produces more than 100 horsepower more than the 4-cylinder unit – an excellent complement to the Eclipse’s well tuned chassis and vibrant steering feel. Producing a stout 265 bhp at 5,750 rpm and a full 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, the 3.8-liter SOHC 24-valve MIVEC-equipped 6-cylinder engine takes the fun-to-drive 2011 Eclipse Coupe to a whole new level of performance. Like its 4-cylinder cousin, this powerplant features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, but the Eclipse GT comes standard with an exotic transmission not available with the other models: a 5-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission that allows the driver to manually shift gears via the gearshift lever when so desired. Along with this Sportronic® automatic transmission, a lowered, more aggressively-tuned sports suspension makes the Eclipse GT for choice for the sporting enthusiast that truly enjoys driving.

Engine

Every 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS Sport is equipped with a normally-aspirated 2.4-liter (2378 cc) SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that features a sturdy cast iron block and a lightweight aluminum cylinder head. With a bore and stroke of 3.43 x 3.94 in. (87.0 x 100.0 mm) and a compression ratio of 9.5:1, this engine produces its maximum power output of 162 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and its peak torque of 162 lb.-ft. at a much lower 4,000 rpm. Additional cost savings to the consumer is achieved thanks to this engine’s ability to run on regular unleaded gasoline.

To make the most of the fun handling capabilities of this top-down sports car, all of the top-tier 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT models are powered by an engine that produces more than 100 horsepower over that of the 4-cylinder powerplant in the Eclipse Spyder GS Sport. The potent engine propelling the GT is a rev-happy, normally-aspirated 3.8-liter (3828 cc) SOHC 24-valve V-6 engine that, like the 4-cylinder unit, is composed of a high-strength cast iron block topped off by aluminum-alloy cylinder heads. With a higher compression ratio than the 4-cylinder engine and a bore and stroke measuring 3.74 x 3.54 in. (95.0 x 90.0 mm), this highly-capable V-6 is a joy to put through its paces with a full 265 horsepower on tap at 5,750 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque produced at 4,500 rpm.

To achieve optimal power, low emissions and maximize fuel efficiency, both the I-4 and V-6 engines include Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) variable valve-timing system. Each engine’s rpm redline threshold is reached at 6,500 on the tachometer. Matching the sumptuous ride offered by the Eclipse Spyder’s rock-solid chassis and smooth-operating engines are a pair of automatic transmissions more than up to the task. The 4-cylinder-powered Eclipse GS Sport features an effortlessly-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission while the Eclipse GT adds an additional cog to its 5-speed automatic gearbox. Both units feature Mitsubishi’s Sportronic® transmission technology that allows the driver to make quick manual gear changes by pushing forward or pulling back on the gearshift lever.

Safety

Every 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder includes numerous ingenious safety design features and technologies incorporated into this convertible 2+2. Among these are an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) including dual action inflator with crash zone and seat position and occupant sensors; both head and thorax side air bags; energy-absorbing front and rear crumple zones and side impact door protection. Advanced electronic driver aids that help the driver to control the vehicle in adverse traction situations include anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL). A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that can alert the driver should a tire’s air pressure fall below a safe level is also included at no charge.

The entire Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe model lineup includes a wide array of sophisticated safety technologies to better protect driver and passengers that are included at no additional cost. These systems include an advanced supplemental restraint system (SRS) that consists of dual front air bags that feature dual action inflators with crash zone and seat position and occupant sensors; side air bags; curtain air bags; Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) and anti-lock brakes (ABS) plus Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

The 2009 Mitsubishi Raider is largely unchanged for what is likely its final model year. This pickup truck is a restyled Dodge Dakota. Raider comes in a single LS trim level. A 4-door extended cab is rear-wheel drive only.

The 4-door Double Cab crew cab is available with rear drive or part-time 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but has a low-range gear for off-roading. All have a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. Extended cabs are available with a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.Maximum towing capacity is 4150 lb. Double Cabs are automatic only.

The only available safety feature is rear-wheel ABS. Traction control, an antiskid system, and curtain side airbags are unavailable. Raider’s performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped Dakotas.