Not everyone is aware of the difference between unibody and body-on-frame SUVs. Most modern crossovers have unibody construction, which means lighter weight and better fuel consumption. But, if you want something a little more rugged, with proper off-road performance capabilities, then a body-on-frame SUV is the way to go. Of course, some people prefer them simply because they are more imposing and look more like the trucks on which they are based.
What Does It Take To Earn a Spot On Our List of The Best Body-On-Frame SUV Models?
Here are the characteristics of the best body-on-frame SUV models:
What To Consider Before Buying Body-On-Frame SUVs
What makes an SUV a body-of-frame model is not simply about how large it is. A Jeep Wrangler, for example, fits the bill despite its small size. No, what matters here is the manner of construction. Unlike unibody SUVs (also known as full-frame SUVs) which share their foundations with normal cars, these true SUVs are built upon a truck’s platform. This does normally make them larger, but the real difference is that the chassis and suspension are separate from the body.
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FAQs
What does body-on-frame SUV mean?
This refers to the method of construction used when building the SUV. These vehicles use a truck frame to increase their ruggedness, off-road abilities, and hauling capacities. Basically, a ladder frame sits underneath a separately constructed body. Smaller SUVs and crossovers are built with a unitary body instead.
Is body-on-frame better than unibody?
This depends on what you want in a car. Truck-based SUVs are hardier, so they handle rugged terrain more easily. They can also tow and haul heavier loads when properly powered. However, they suffer from poor fuel economy, compromised maneuverability, and lower overall safety ratings.
Which SUV is most like a truck?
While all body-on-frame SUVs are based upon truck-like designs, the Ford Expedition probably most closely resembles its forbears. It shares similarly huge towing capacities to the F-150 pickup and can go off-road when need be.
Which SUV is the best for off-roading?
Body-on-frame SUVs are among the best off-roaders, so it makes sense that the top of the list is flush with such models. These include the Land Rover Defender, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Land Cruiser.
Which SUV has the highest towing rating?
Ford is known for topping the towing charts with its F-Series pickups, so it is unsurprising that the automaker has extended this expertise to its SUV range. The Expedition, the largest SUV from the American brand, is able to tow an impressive 9,300 lbs.