Despite the vehicle's official unveiling at the 2008 Chicago auto show next week, Mitsubishi has chosen to release images and information for its 2009 Galant ahead of schedule. A number of changes have been made for the new model year ranging from styling to equipment.
Most noticeable, the 2009 features a revised design with a completely redesigned front end. New hood lines, grille, and front intake all provide a slightly more aggressive look for the 2009 Galant, and the rear of the vehicle has its share of changes too. A revised bumper, rear deck, taillamps, and new rear glass all contribute to a wider-looking rear end. Fresh 17-inch wheels at all four corners and a new center high-mounted brake light considerably update the Galant's image.
A variety of trim packages is offered on the new Galant -- four in total. The range starts at the Galant ES and Sport Edition, both of which are 160-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder models. Two V-6 options are also offered: the 3.8-liter, 230-horsepower V-6 Sport model and the topline sport-tuned 3.8-liter 258-horsepower Galant Ralliart -- a true sport sedan said to give a 0-to-60-mph run in around six seconds. All models include a Sportronic automatic gearbox for 2009, the four-cylinder engines receiving four-speed units and the six-cylinder engines with five-speed 'boxes. All Galants also get a tire-pressure monitoring system standard for 2008, while the V-6 models also receive standard traction control.
New for the 2009 Sport models (both four- and six-cylinder) is a longer list of standard equipment that offers over a $1000 discount versus purchasing the included options separately. Those features include an automatic climate control system, eight-way power driver's seat, multifunction steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink garage door opener/transmitter, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, foglights, heated sideview mirrors, theft-deterrent alarm system, color-keyed rear spoiler, dark chrome headlamp reflectors, and an illuminated glovebox.
The Ralliart Galant also includes a Rockford Acoustic Design premium stereo (also standard on the Sport V-6), a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, perforated leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, automatic climate control system, power glass sunroof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink transmitter. Aluminum pedals and Micro-delta print accent panels are also included as standard equipment.
The 2009 Mitsubishi Galant will be available in all forms of trim this month at dealerships, and we'll bring you even more photos and information when we see the car in person at the 2008 Chicago auto show next week. You'll want to be sure to keep it tuned right here to Motor Trend Online for all your Chicago show updates live as they happen.