First Generation (circa) 1970 Mitsubishi Galant

“Galant” is derived from the French word meaning “chivalrous” – as if the ride in a Galant is an honor for those to cherish. Since its inception the vehicle has transformed from a two door boxy coupe to a four door sports sedan. Total sales over the decades have even surpassed 5 million. Early Galants were constructed in Japan, but by 1971 were exported to American soil by Chrysler – where it was renamed Dodge Colt. A more powerful GTO variant also arouse in the 1970′s.

1977 Mitsubishi Galant

Chrysler kept exporting the Galant throughout the 70′s – adding a station wagon version to match the larger, successful version coming out of Japan. During this time Mitsubishi introduced their MCA Jet engine. This incorporated a “Jet Valve” in each Galant, a secondary intake valve which improved emissions. The 1980′s saw a more angular design model coming from Mitsu, a supercharged engine, and rebranded models becoming highly popular in both the United Kingdom and Australia. In 1985 Galant was awarded Germany’s Das Goldene Lenkrad (Golden Steering Wheel) as Car of the Year.

1987 Galant

Ending the 1980′s came with Motor Trend’s Import Car of the Year Award in 1989. Into the 1990′s as Mitsubishi again takes home awards from Germany, the United States and their home base of Japan. The Galant is finally branded the same name throughout United States car lots, as well as being rebranded as a Dodge/Eagle 2000 in Canada. 1993 also brought in a North American based assembly plant in Normal, Illinois.

Seventhed Generation – 1998 Mitsubishi Galant

At the dawn of the 21st century, Mitsubishi introduced an entirely new Galant style, curvy, sporty and room for five. Some variations of the newer Galants included rally inspired four wheel drive and supercharged V6 engine, available in both manual and automatic transmission. ES, LS and GTZ models were also offered up with a 3.0 liter 195 horsepower V6.

2009′s Galant

Today, a slightly larger yet just as sporty Galant is available at a Mitsubishi dealer near you. Most models will come with a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine or the powerful 3.0 liter V6. More curves and a daring grille have added more texture to this Japanese inspired vehicle both outside and under the hood.

Research/Some Photos: Wikipedia

And why not? According to Mitsubishi, it reported an overall sales increase of X compared to 2007. Among the leading models, Mitsubishi boasts a 16.4% increase on the Galant, and upward trend of 29% on the Eclipse Spyder, and the prized Evo Lancer had a 48.4% jump.

This doesn’t really seem like it would impact overall car sales much, especially for the class and competition for small compact sedans and coupes.