2004 Lincoln Navigator

Navigators come in three trim levels—Luxury, Premium, and Ultimate—each with successively added luxury features. Optional ControlTrac four-wheel-drive offers four electronically selectable modes, including 4-Lo for low-speed towing and off-road use. We didn't drive the Navigator seriously off-road, but not many owners will. On-road, the Navigator feels surprisingly and very maneuverable for its size, with a ride quality more reminiscent of a luxury sedan than a sport utility. The 2004 Navigator is neither top-heavy in feel (like so many big SUVs) nor, thanks to the new-for-'03 air springs, is it jarring over tar strips and small bumps. This elephant can tap dance and, in doing so, sets new standards for a vehicle this big and this versatile. (www.lincolnvehicles.com)