While the Galant receives a perceptible facelift for 2009, Mitsubishi's midsize sedan remains in its ninth generation of production. Styling updates include a new grille and taillight design, and in addition to front and rear fascia changes, the Galant lineup will now offer more variety. Two new sport-focused trims have been added for 2009. Bluetooth and a rearview camera are also expected to appear on the options roster later in the year.

Reviewers have touted the Galant as an impressive blend of ride quality and handling, and also continue to praise the Ralliart's potent V6 engine, despite its thirst for premium fuel. All Galant trims offer thoughtful ergonomics, with well-placed and user-friendly controls. Unfortunately, Mitsubishi's flagship sedan is hurt by the absence of stability control, a manual transmission option, interior storage, and rear-seat cargo-carrying flexibility. Despite the sleek and stylish layout, many owners have also warned about the presence of some lower-quality materials in the cabin, a flaw not found in key competitors like the Camry and Accord.

Mitsubishi's trim-level adjustments for 2009 include the discontinuation of the base-level DE and the addition the Sport and Sport V6. The ES becomes the entry-level Galant this year, equipped with essentials like full power accessories, a CD audio system, and cruise control. The Galant Sport is the second tier of the four available trims, gaining additional standard features like 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, a sunroof, automatic climate control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power driver's seat, and heated front seats. The Sport V6 is similarly equipped, but it is powered by the 3.8-liter V6. The premium Ralliart trim is differentiated by a 258-horsepower version of the V6 and exclusive features like an 8-way power driver's seat, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a rear spoiler.

There are three powerplant options for the Galant. The ES and Sport are both powered by a 2.4-liter inline four that makes 160 horsepower and 157 ft-lbs of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability is standard, and fuel economy is estimated at 20/27 mpg. The 230-horsepower V6 returns under the hood of the Sport V6. This 3.8-liter V6 generates 230 horsepower and 250 ft-lbs of torque, and it is teamed with a five-speed automatic with manual shift capability. Its fuel economy is estimated at 17/25 mpg. The high-performance Ralliart houses an enhanced version of the V6, which delivers 258 hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque.

Every Galant trim comes standard with antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, and full-length side-curtain airbags. The Ralliart is also equipped with traction control.