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The Legacy —the oldest name in the Subaru lineup — is far from the first choice for midsize sedan buyers. But with the 2007 models, the manufacturer has made a concerted effort to join the category's top echelon.

Of particularly note is the new GT turbocharged model. First available in a limited release in late 2006, it's now in full production, and it's quite a change.

The 2007 GT legacy has a six-speed manual transmission, upgraded from the five-speed 2006 model. There's also a limited-slip differential, a new turbocharger and the horsepower has been increased to 243.

Additionally, the 4-door, 2.5-liter GT Spec.B turbocharged model — my weekly test drive — has the manufacturer's new SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent) system. It allows drivers to select different levels of engine performance.

What the Legacy does best is perform. It's smooth around town and has a controlled confidence on the highway. It has quick (but not joltingly fast) acceleration. It effortlessly maneuvers through traffic and welcomes any tricky circumstances with confidence. It's all because of the fine AWD system, the industry leader for years. It's a keen signature feature.

My test drive vehicle had an attractive interior/exterior mix. The brushed metal interior gauges are straightforward and well-positioned. But other interior features, the leather seat material and carpet, for example, are not the best quality, but adequate.

The new Legacy GT Limited Edition has a good list of standard features, projector beam Halogen fog lights to heated mirrors, windshield de-icer and heated front seats. The only included option ($304) was the Popular Equipment Group B (Dimming mirror/compass and security system upgrade). Add the $625 destination fee and the new Legacy GT's final price is just under $33,000.

That's not a bargain. But the Legacy does offer a lot, particularly considering its perfect (five-star) crash test rating and superior ride. That said, the new Legacy may be the best edition of the car ever offered,  and it's one that can't be dismissed.
 
Subaru Legacy 2007 (Fact & Figures): Safety Features — Dual front, side and side curtain side airbags; Fuel Mileage (estimates) — 19 mpg (city), 25 mpg (highway); Warranty — Bumper to bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles; (24-hour) Roadside Assistance Program, 4 years/50,000 miles; Base Price — $31,924.