2008 Lincoln Navigator

You can take it with you. Especially if you're driving a 2008 Lincoln Navigator, a luxury full-size SUV that seats up to eight people, has up to 103 cubic feet of storage space, and can tow around 8,000 pounds. For 2008, the Navigator turns some former options into standard features, including a power liftgate, a power-folding third row, heated and cooled front seats, and a 14-speaker THX surround-sound system. A rearview camera is a new option this year.

The Navigator comes in two trims â?? Base and L, which adds 15 inches of length and 25 cubic feet more cargo space. All trims are available in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The 4WD system has several settings, ranging from default rear-wheel to part-time to full-time, and comes with both high- and low-range gearing. If you don't mind getting the stylish Navigator dirty, it can be taken off-road. Its 300-hp, 5.4-liter V8 and 6-speed automatic get a mere 12/18 mpg, but 2007 revisions have improved handling and reduced road noise to keep passengers safely insulated from the real world. ABS brakes, traction and stability control, dual front-side airbags, and side curtain bags for all three rows are standard. Both second and third rows fold flat, and with all seats up, the cargo area holds 18 cubic feet. Reclining standard second-row captain's chairs can be replaced with a bench, upping the seven-passenger capacity to eight.

Full power features, a 6-CD player, 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery and trim, front and rear climate control, and satellite radio are just a few of the standard luxuries. Options include a DVD player, navigation system, a sunroof, and power running boards (manual boards are standard). A Monochrome package adds body-colored moldings but retains the in-your-face chrome grille introduced last year.

New owners of the 2008 Navigator love its quiet ride, interior space in the third row (an independent rear suspension lowers the floor and adds more legroom), and extensive luxury equipment. The biggest gripe, aside from low fuel economy, is the lack of power when compared to comparably sized SUVs.