2009 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart Road Test Review

Its easy to get the publics attention when you build a powerful sports car, a demon truck or even a dirt-devouring sport-utility vehicle.

But a mostly utilitarian, mid-size family sedan how can a manufacturer stand out in that crowded field? How does it create a vehicle that serves the same purpose as every other family sedan, yet has that something extra to catch the eye and the heart of a prospective buyer?

In the case of Mitsubishi, the Japanese manufacturer that has been an habitual tag-along in this part of the market, the hopeful answer is the Galant Ralliart, top-of-the-line version of its family sedan lineup.

For its early-release 2009 models, Mitsubishi is hoping to spark some new interest in the aging Galant lineup with a revised grille, taillights and rear fenders. Most will probably find the changes agreeable, but they arent significant enough to make what is old appear to be new.

Still, the Ralliart is a competent entry in a segment of the market that generally does not put sportiness on its list of must-have features.

Ralliart, for those of you who might still be mystified by the odd moniker, was Mitsubishis name for its worldwide rally effort. With the Japanese manufacturer out of that competition, it signifies the sportiest models in the production car lineup.

The front-wheel-drive Ralliart gets its point across with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine bulked up to 258 horsepower, a tightened suspension, bigger brakes and wheels, and trim that distinguishes it from its less athletic Galant siblings.

The result is a sedan that is surprisingly engaging. It wont push anybodys Porsche out of the garage, but it can add a little zest to the every-day driving experience. The engine, teamed with a shiftable five-speed automatic transmission, can rush the Galant Ralliart from a stop to 60 mph in a little more than six seconds. More importantly, the 258 pound-feet of torque help make short work of those two-lane passing situations.

On the downside, there is noticeable torque-tug on the steering wheel under heavy acceleration, and fuel efficiency is not this Galants strongest suit. The EPA predicts between 16 and 25 miles for every gallon of the recommended premium fuel. My average over a week and several hundred miles was about 20 mpg.

The Galant Ralliarts tauter independent suspension improves the cars handling noticeably, without requiring much of a sacrifice in ride comfort. There shouldnt be any complaints from the passengers unless the road is unusually rough.

The four-wheel antilock brakes stand ready to rein in the over-enthusiastic driver, and they come with electronic force distribution to maximize stopping power.

Exterior cues that announce the Ralliart include a mesh grille, 18-inch wheels, a lower front air dam and projector-type headlights. Adults need not worry. The changes wont make everyone think theyve borrowed their kids car.

Inside, the storys more of a mixed bag. The overall ambience is pleasant enough and the standard leather seats are comfortable for up to four adults. However, a close look at some of the trim pieces tells you this is where the cost-cutters were doing their work. In addition, the optional navigation system looks as if it was stuck on the dashboard as an afterthought, and it is essentially invisible to anyone wearing sunglasses. Oddly, it is available only on the Ralliart model.

The comprehensive list of safety features includes front and side-mounted airbags for front-seat passengers, side curtain airbags, front and rear crumple zones, side-impact beams and tire pressure monitors.

The base price of ,924, including the 5 delivery fee, will buy a car with a full complement of luxury features. Add ,500 for the navigation system and the Ralliarts tab comes to ,424.

The hottest Galant wont shout for anyones attention, but its ready to offer a rewarding driving experience for the buyer who wants to have a little fun with his transportation appliance.