Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs. The GM models get the nod in overall ratings, but shop and compare both before you buy.

For a few more bucks you can get the Recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.

Ford's second biggest SUV posted lower sales in calendar 2000, declining by 8 percent from '99 to about 213,500. SUV demand in general has been slowing of late, with larger models like this taking some of the bigger hits.

Even so, Expedition is still far from being sales hash, and each one makes a big profit. That and a hoped-for sales rebound is why Ford is splurging on updates over the next two years. For 2002, Expedition gets a new grille, headlamps, and side mirrors to stand more clearly apart from upscale cousin Lincoln Navigator (at least from the front), plus a lower, reengineered front bumper like that of big brother Excursion, designed to be more "crash compatible" with passenger cars. Navigator should get that too, and Ford is said to be revising the suspension and steering on both versions for more car-like ride and handling.

Sources say the '03 models will be further modernized with an independent rear suspension like that of the redesigned 2002 Explorer wagons. Ford is also likely to extend the new Explorer's available antiskid control and curtain side airbags to Expedition/Navigator, though when is not yet known. Still apparently on for '03 is a 5.4-liter Triton V8 with a new three-valve cylinder head (versus two valves now), a change claimed to lower emissions while improving power and torque. Also on tap for '03 is a new heavy-duty 5-speed automatic transmission as standard or optional for all engines.