1999 MITSUBISHI GALANT IS A FUN-TO-DRIVE MID-SIZE SEDAN

Powerful Engine Choices and Special Suspension Tuning Bring Sporty Performance

With it's stylish, sleek exterior design and driver-oriented interior, the all-new 1999 Mitsubishi Galant promises outstanding performance.  Fortunately, this mid-size sedan's high-torque engine choices, including a newly-available V6, and it's fun-to-drive suspension tuning backs up it's sporty appearance.

Engines

For the first time, Galant buyers will have the choice of two engines -- a high-torque 4-cylinder or a powerful V6 -- specifically developed for American drivers.  In fact, these two engines are not available in Galant models sold outside of the United States, allowing Mitsubishi Motors to tune these engines for what car buyers want most:   strong off-the-line performance and confident passing ability.

The performance of both engines has been improved with a cold-air induction system that draws air in from above the radiator, rather than from inside the hot engine compartment.   The cool air mixes more easily with fuel.

In addition, as an example of the extraordinary efforts Mitsubishi Motors engineers went through to reduce noise and vibration in the all-new Galant, both engines have been re-configured from a west-to-east configuration to east-to-west.

• 2.4-Liter 4-Cylinder

Galant's 2.4-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine has been refined to produce more horsepower and           torque, while reducing noise and vibration.  Producing 145 horsepower* at 5,500 RPM and 155 pounds           feet of torque at a low 3,000 RPM, the 2.4-liter engine has a new intake manifold to improve low end            power for additional standing-start performance.

Dual engine stabilizers, originally pioneered and patented by Mitsubishi Motors, continue to virtually eliminate the harmonic vibration typical of large-displacement 4-cylinder engines.

• 3.0-Liter V6

Perhaps the biggest news for the all-new 1999 Galant is the availability of a V6 engine.  The V6 engine brings a new level of power and smoothness to Galant, and has been engineered to deliver the strong, useable power demanded by buyers in this segment.

Producing 195-horsepower** at 5,500 RPM and an impressive 205 pounds feet of torque at 4,500 RPM, the 3.0-liter SOHC 24-valve V6 is one of the most powerful in Galant's class, including competitors such as Camry, Accord and 626.

Transmissions

• 4-Speed Automatic transmission

The previous generation Galant was one of the first vehicles to use fuzzy logic to determine proper shifts of its automatic transmission.  The 1999 Galant takes this innovation one step further.

Galant's four-speed automatic has "optimum shift control" to improve shift quality and be more responsive to the needs of the driver.  The system, which incorporates decision making ability similar to the human brain, factors in accelerator position, vehicle speed, brake application and road conditions to select the appropriate gear, including downshifts when the vehicle is going downhill.

The Automatic also has an engine torque management system, which allows the engine to reduce power for a spit second during shifts, providing smoother operation and less shock to the drivetrain.

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Available with the 4-cylinder engine later in the model year, Galant's 5-speed manual transmission has been improved over the previous generation with a goal to reduce noise and improve shift feel.

An increased number of synchronizer rings combines with a new shift lever to enhance the overall shift feel.

Fun-to-Drive Suspension Tuning

To match the performance promised by its sporty styling and powerful engines, Galant's engineers made sure it would be fun-to-drive.  With it's 4-wheel independent suspension, re-engineered for ride quality and handling response specifically for the United States, Galant can definitely be defined as a "driver's car."

The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, exclusive to the U.S.-version of the Galant.  This design was chosen for improved straight line stability, lower weight and reduced road noise.  Off-set placement of the front springs reduces friction, diffusing road shock from rough pavement and improving the ride.  A front stabilizer bar is also provided.

At the rear, Galant's multi-link suspension is improved over the current generation, and is similar to the design of Mitsubishi Motors' flagship Diamante luxury performance sedan.

Tuning of the rear suspension has been revised, and there is a more rigid crossmember for improved stability.  Upper and lower control arms are made from stronger and stiffer tubular steel, and all models except the entry level Galant DE are equipped with a rear stabilizer bar.

With its powerful engine choices, sophisticated transmission, and fun-to-drive suspension tuning, the all-new Galant has the performance to back up its sporty, stylish exterior.  It is a welcome addition to the current crowd of look-alike, drive-alike generic mid-size sedans.