For 2007, the Subaru Legacy undergoes several changes. A new entry-level 2.5i model, exclusive to the Canadian market, selectively decontents the 2.5i model that was the base Legacy in 2006; buyers can then move up to the 2.5i Touring and 2.5i Limited packages.

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All Legacy sedans received 40/20/40 split flat-folding rear seats, while all audio systems receive MP3 and WMA capability, an auxiliary input jack, and pre-wiring for XM Satellite Radio.

Also new to the Canadian market is the 2.5GT spec.B sedan, based on the turbocharged Legacy but with a six-speed manual transmission, sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and other extra features.

The 2007 2.5GT models are the first to use Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE), with a driver-selectable engine response option of Intelligent (I), Sport (S) and Sport Sharp (S#). The 2.5GT models also receive new 17-inch six-spoke aluminum wheels, and a new instrument panel with metal trim, multi-information display, ECO gauge and cold engine warning light.

The Legacy line-up is available in sedan or wagon configuration as the 2.5i, with naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, or as the 2.5GT, with turbocharged 2.5-litre horizontal four. All come with a five-speed manual transmission, except for the spec.B, which uses a six-speed; 2.5i models can be optioned to a four-speed automatic with manual shift mode, while 2.5GT models option to a five-speed automatic with manual shift mode. The spec.B is strictly a manual transmission.

All use Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive (the term refers to all components being configured symmetrically along the driveline, for better balance); 2.5GT models have a viscous-type limited-slip rear differential, while the spec.B uses a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and includes Vehicle Dynamics Control system.

Features on the 2.5i models include 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, side and curtain airbags, air conditioning, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, six-way manual driver’s adjuster, 40/20/40 split flat-folding rear seat, cruise control, and CD/MP3 stereo. Wagon models add roof rails, rear wiper/washer, and 60/40 flat-folding rear seat.

Available 2.5i option packages include the Touring package, with body-coloured mirrors and integrated turn signals, fog lights, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, windshield wiper de-icer, and power sunroof (on sedans) or twin-panel power sunroof and cargo cover (on wagons); or the Limited package, with automatic transmission only, which adds the Touring package items plus charcoal leather interior, dual-zone automatic climate control and premium six-CD stereo, along with lockable roof crossrails and cargo mat on wagon models.

The 2.5GT models build on the 2.5i features with 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear ventilated brake discs, body-coloured mirrors, fog lights, power sunroof (twin panel on wagons), windshield wiper de-icer, leather interior, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power seat adjusters, leather-wrapped wheel, automatic dual-zone climate control, sport-design gauges, premium six-CD stereo, and on wagon models, lockable roof crossrails and cargo cover.

The 2.5GT spec.B adds 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with summer performance tires, Bilstein sport-tuned suspension, blue Alcantara seats with black leather bolsters, aluminum alloy pedals, driver’s seat memory, leather-wrapped MOMO wheel, and DVD-based navigation system.

Nicely sized and a pleasure to drive, the Legacy now becomes more affordable with the introduction of a new entry-level model; those who like their creature comforts can still top it up for prices that, in some cases, are unchanged from 2006. The turbocharged GT is a spirited ride, offering the fun value of the WRX but with more maturity and comfort. The 2.5T spec.B is a bit pricey for what you get, but it’s also a good sports sedan, with six-speed shifting and big wheels that fill the wells nicely, and with summer performance rubber to keep you tight on the curves. Too bad all that extra sportiness comes in only one colour, and it’s grey.