Make It a Combo No need for a fleet of sedans and cargo vans. One SUV will do it all.

If you had to select one vehicle to do triple duty as a luxurybusiness sedan, a cargo vehicle and a weekend SUV for gentleoff-roading or hauling family members, you'd probably pickLincoln's elegant 2003 Navigator. With features that makedriving a pleasure and loading up the back end easier than anyother full-sized SUV, the new model, while similar in design to the2002 version, is far more functional and driver-friendly.

Wider, powered running-boards automatically extend outward whenthe front doors open, then retract when the doors close. A singlepush of a button folds the split third-row seats flat into a floorwell. A power liftgate raises and lowers in 10 seconds at the touchof the key fob, and if you're sharing the Navigator withothers, memory power-adjustable brake and gas pedals make it easyto return the pedals to your setting. The leather and walnut-burlinterior echoes Lincoln's luxury sedan ambience, and its airspring suspension makes for a restful ride.

Under the hood, a 5.4-liter, V-8 engine provides 300 horsepowerat 5,000 rpm, while torque is 355 pound-feet. Muscle is just asimpressive: 8,300 lbs. towing capacity and 1,456-lbs. payload. Atraction control system helps correct oversteer and improverollover stability and low-speed maneuverability.

New safety features include large side-curtain airbags for thefirst two rows, bigger side mirrors with built-in lighted turnsignals to complement front and rear signals, and a lamp thatlights up the wheel area when you exit. A park-assist systemdetects obstacles when in reverse, and the doors won't lock ifthe key is left in the ignition. The Navigator can accommodateeight passengers or carry 104.7 cubic feet of cargo with the secondand third row of seats folded down. Price: $52,325 to $54,950.Options such as a navigation system and moonroof can bring thetotal to $60,000.

Editor and consultant Jill Amadio has been reporting on theautomotive industry for 24 years.