2001 Lincoln Navigator Maximum plush in a full-size SUV. By Mitch McCullough, Editor-in-Chief, New Car Test Drive .com

Lincoln Navigator offers a high seating position, good acceleration performance, a roomy cabin for four people and cargo, plus big-league towing capacity. Like the Ford Expedition, the Navigator is built on the rugged structure of the Ford F-150, the best-selling pickup truck in the U.S. Compared with the Expedition, the Navigator offers a softer ride, more luxury features. It also offers distinctive styling, though whether it's attractive is subject to debate.

ZLincoln Navigator has been trumped by the all-new Cadillac Escalade. Look for cash incentives and special financing as Lincoln attempts to sweeten the pot.

For 2001, free scheduled maintenance is included in the base price for the first three years or 36,000 miles.

Lincoln Navigator is available in two-wheel-drive ($43,645) and four-wheel-drive ($47,395) models. Otherwise, buyers need only choose among colors and a short list of extra-cost options.

Navigator is powered by a 5.4-liter V8 engine rated at 300 horsepower and comes equipped with a four-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission.

The 4x4 Navigator uses Ford's Control Trac system with a two-speed transfer case; drivers can select between a full-time all-wheel drive mode with a variable front/rear torque split or a true off-road mode with a locked 50/50 front/rear torque distribution.