Remember those TV ads? People keep waving at Mitsubishi's new Galant as it cruises the city, past busy corners, shoppers, a biker with a broad smile. At the end, it's obvious why. A charming preschooler, in his rear child seat, waves at everyone outside like a little prince.

Isn't that just like Mitsubishi buyers? When you thought the trendiest people with smooth moves would stay forever tuned to soft rock on their full-decibel sound systems, they sneak up on you and start growing a family. That's where Galant fits in.

According to the Mitsu folks, this next generation, new-from-the-ground-up version of its staple midsize sedan was designed with tantalizing sports car lines sweeping back to a powerful rear deck, kick-in-the-throttle oomph, and the implication it possesses more interior room than a Boeing 747. Real world, its the largest Galant sedan ever ($18,000 to $26,000 range), whose strong, trendy styling avoids shouting "practical," but whispers it just the same.

The new, all-steel base is lighter, stronger and more rigid for safety. We found it added crispness to the vehicle's performance (especially the 230-horsepower, 3.8 liter V6) when cutting through tight road curves in the rolling Virginia countryside. Among driving features: Four-wheel, independent suspension, five-mile bumpers, plus traction control and ABS with electronic braking on the upscale LS and GTS.

There's no need to scrunch-in shoulders with five people inside. There's space throughout to relax on long trips. An easier-loading trunk has non-intrusive hinges. The fun stuff includes Sportronic semi-manual shift for the two "up" models, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels for the premium GTS, and sunroof, leather and cold weather option packages. In incomparable Mitsubishi style, gauges glow ice-blue for added zing. Call it a "family sedan for the spirited family" in a segment where boring can often outweigh bold.