Roughing it?: been a really good year? Have a look at these high-end SUV's - the luxurious '03 Lincoln Navigator or the outrageous 2003 Hummer H2

Canadian Forest Industries, May 2003 by Jamieson, Scott

It also handles with relative ease at low speeds and around town. The cab is neither as quiet, nor as refined as the Navigator's, but make no mistake - the H2 is a luxury ride all the way, from the front and rear heated leather seats and audio controls, to the information systems, outstanding sound system, and more. Yet even Hummer's brand of luxury is aggressive, feeling more like a high-end cockpit than sedan interior.

Both rides have adequate power and torque, although the weight they're dragging around prevents either from being a rocket. One final surprise given the Lincoln's smaller, less-powerful engine - with a towing capacity of 8 300 lb, the Navigator outhauls the burly H2 by over 1 500 lb.

Yet in the end, if you can afford either of these trucks and your off-road demands are reasonable, your personality and not vehicle specs will likely be the deciding factor. If the Navigator tells people you've arrived, the Hummer screams it.

Almost Perfect....

Hummer H2: When you're this big and yellow, you own the passing lane - Surprising luxury and on-road performance - No end to the practical hooks, racks, and storage compartments - Great off-road tires - Nimble low-speed and off-road handling for its size - More 4WD options than you need - Stadium lighting - Big fuel tank (you'll need it) - Outstanding approach and departure angles to get over anything - Kids think you're cool (until GM takes it back).

Lincoln Navigator: No end to interior passenger and cargo space - Confident highway handling - Excellent visibility and speed-adjusted back-up warning sensor system - Running boards that deploy when you open the door - Easy access to all seats, which also fold easily - squeaks into the garage and car wash (just) - 8 300 lb towing to boot.

Needs Work...

Hummer H2: When you're this big and yellow, everyone knows you're at the pub - Poor rear visibility, creating a real hazard for the little ones - Limited interior cargo space and towing capacity for its size - Jungle gym access - Outdoor parking only with our tester's roof rack.

Lincoln Navigator: Outpowered by main luxury competition (Range Rover/Lexus/Escalade/Mercedes) - Inaccessible power seat controls - Distracting navigation system is an accident waiting to happen - Window controls on centre console?

Both Trucks: A little more acceleration would be nice - Crazy thirsty - we got 4 km per litre from both, and the Navigator calls for premium gas.