For 2007, the styling has softened a bit, at least when viewed from the front, thanks to a more conventional chrome-outlined grille and a softer, simpler contour for the one-piece bumper and lower fascia. We're ambivalent about the grille but like the new bumper. Sculpted headlight housings still cover the forward edges of the front fenders. The Galant looks like it's grinning.

In profile, the Galant's long, wedgy stance avoids the boring box-on-box look commonly associated with conservative midsize sedans. The roofline picks up from the graceful sweep of the hood and arcs cleanly over perfectly proportioned side windows. Door handles integrate nicely into the design while providing an easy grasp, easier than that offered by an expensive Audi A8 we just drove. Wheel arches are mildly blistered and boldly circular, wrapping concentrically around the tires.

The deck lid seems truncated, as if it were abruptly chopped off when somebody realized it was getting too long to stay in balance with the front overhang. The aerodynamicists argue this works well in a wind tunnel, but on the street, it's a bit of a visual hiccup.

For 2007, the rear bumper has been smoothed and rounded, which better integrates the front and rear of the car.

The Ralliart is distinguished by unique bumpers, which sport a flash of silver at the bottom, and by a mesh grille and projector-style, four-bulb ellipsoid headlamps. A color-keyed aerodynamics add heft to the side view, which is further enhanced by 18-inch wheels. Ralliart tail lamps have clear lenses, which are integrated into the rear spoiler.