Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2001

Luxury SUV Over $40,000

Winner: Lexus LX 470

The fairest of all luxury SUVs is without a doubt the LX 470. There's a reason why it ranked No. 1 out of five vehicles in our Luxury SUV Comparison Test and it can be summed up as follows: Lexus has mastered the art of combining an elegant, coddling interior with true off-road ability. This ute's utility comes in part from its Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which adjusts the ride based on road surfaces, and steering, acceleration and braking input. Add to this Adjustable Height Control (AHC) and you've got a vehicle fit to tackle the dirt. Meanwhile, you'll be enveloped in a warm-toned wood and leather cabin with excellent ergonomics and a handy third row of seats for the kiddies. Power in the LX 470 comes from an exceedingly smooth 4.7-liter V8 that creates 230 horsepower and 320 foot-pounds of torque.