Notables: Four-wheel independent suspension (now with coils up front rather than torsion bars), a five-speed automatic trans with adaptive logic making for "manumatic" shifting, and a tweaked 3.5L V-6. The Active-Trac four-wheel-drive system has a 33/67 front-to-rear torque split in all-wheel-drive mode (it used to be 50/50), but all of the torque can go to the axle needed for traction. A limited-slip differential is standard on the LTD model and optional on the XLS, but a locking center diff comes on both. There's seating for seven (which means the wheelbase is a tad longer than the previous Montero), and the third seat can be stored underneath the floor for oodles of cargo space. Unibody construction is also new.
Food for Thought: Did you know that the Montero was a consecutive two-time winner of the Paris-Dakar Rally?Status: '01 model, and it's available now.
MountaineerMeet Its Maker: MercuryWhat's So Good About It? It doesn't look like a Ford, further differentiating it from that lineup.
Notables: The new Mountaineer is 2 inches wider and has a shorter front overhang than the existing model. The step-in area now has the rocker panel behind the lower door edge for easier entry and exit. The truck also has an aluminum-finished grille that hints at Cougar, and that same satin-aluminum finish appears throughout the body, from the wheels to the badging.
Food for Thought: It was designed for "a more mature, independent-minded customer." Also, it was designed, so forget those comments you're hearing about the impending death of the Mercury line.Status: Concept.
EscapeMeet Its Maker: FordWhat's So Good About It? Ford's E-named SUVs are getting smaller.
Notables: The line includes an all-new platform, two engines (the 2.0L Zetec inline-four from the Focus car, and a 3.0L Duratec V-6), five-speed auto and manual transmissions, MacPherson-strut front suspension and an independent rear, unibody construction, and rack-and-pinion steering. Also, four-wheel drive with 4x4 Automatic and Lock positions-the latter being for a 50/50 torque split for off-road or slippery streets-and optional ABS and electronic brake-force distribution for improved stops. Seating for five, air conditioning, and 15-inch rims are also included. There are XLS and XLT models.
Food for Thought: This truck kicks off Ford's move into the downsize-SUV segment, and not a minute too soon: Sales have doubled in that area in the U.S. within the last four years.Status: '01 model.
TributeMeet Its Maker: MazdaWhat's So Good About It? At last! Another SUV from Mazda!
Notables: The platform was a collaboration of Mazda and Ford. It sports a 103.1-inch wheelbase, an available 3.0L V-6, a multilink, tuned suspension, unibody construction, a flip-up rear window, available leather seats and overhead storage bins, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity (with the optional trailer tow package).
Food for Thought: They say "the Tribute's sophisticated, expressive style is right at home on date night at the jazz club."Status: '01 model.
EquatorMeet Its Maker: FordWhat's So Good About It? It features the F-150 wheelbase and the Super Duty F-350 width, so the passengers get roominess and the driver gets to tool around in something with a mighty stance. Also, it apparently "screams adventure."