2012 Mitsubishi Galant in Vineland, NJ - $7,600

The ninth generation Galant sedan is based on the same solid platform as the automaker's Endeavor SUV. Designed to offer a tremendous mid-size car value with a plethora of features available across its available trim lines, the front-drive Galant has something for just about everyone.

New design features added just last year include a 0.5-inch ride height reduction that not only infuses the Galant with an attitude adjustment in the form of a sleeker-looking stance but also improves the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency and new chrome beltline molding that gives the exterior an even more polished-looking finish.

Available in ES and SE trim levels, power for the Galant is generated by a 4G69 2.4L four-cylinder powerplant, the only engine offered. A F4A4B four-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic is standard.

The Mitsubishi Galant's outstanding handling and performance builds on its robust foundation. Greatly aiding the causes of both supple road manner and precise road handling through the turns, the Mitsubishi sedan features a technologically-advanced suspension design that soaks up road imperfections just as acutely as it instills driver confidence in its responsive handling capabilities.

A MacPherson strut configuration with coil springs neatly packaged into a sub-frame that helps to isolate noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) can be found at the front of the vehicle while an able low-mount multi-link setup resides in the rear. The structurally-fortified steel chassis provides a strong, rigid platform that offers its occupants a smooth and composed ride in a quiet cabin that keeps the intrusion of annoying engine and road noise to a minimum.

Inside the passenger cabin, occupants are coddled in comfort with plenty of room both front and rear. At night, the gauges, audio panel, interior control knobs and switches are illuminated with striking ice-blue LCD lamps that help create a sophisticated interior ambiance.

Two power points -- one in the center stack and the other on the center armrest storage bin -- facilitate the use of cell phones and laptop computers or game boxes when away from home. Rear seat passengers are treated to a cavernous space, with an armrest and dual cupholders.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 108.3; overall length: 191.1; width: 72.4; height: 57.4 (ES), 57.7 (SE)

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder - 160 hp at 5,500 rpm and 157 lbs-ft at 4,000 rpm

Transmission: four-speed automatic with Sportronic

EPA Fuel Economy: 21 city/30 highway

Cargo capacity: 13.3 cubic feet.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, dual front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control, tire pressure monitors, engine immobilizer, HomeLink garage door opener, daytime running lights, remote keyless entry, and side-impact door beams. SE adds Bluetooth hands-free phone system, navigation system, fog lights, rearview camera, and anti-theft security system.

Optional safety features include remote engine start.

Warranty

Basic: 5-year/60,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 7-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Mitsubishi Galant sedan starts from $21,899 for the ES and $24,299 for the SE. Destination charges add $795.