The topic of our article today is a frame SUV with all-wheel drive. Many believe that this design has long become a relic of the past. But not all car enthusiasts support this opinion. And a number of manufacturers continue to produce classic jeeps of this type. In our review you will learn everything about this type of design, as well as what cars can be found on the modern automotive market.
What are frame jeeps?
Frame jeep - what is it? This is a type of car in which the engine, gearbox, transfer case, etc. are mounted on the frame. And the body is put on like a lid on this structure. Some cars use a slightly different system, which is commonly called an integrated frame. In this case, the frame is welded to the body, although outwardly it looks exactly the same.
What is the difference between monocoque bodies and analogues with an integrated frame? In the second case there are spars. They run from the rear bumper to the front. This solution has its pros and cons. The advantage is that the manufacturer can create deformation zones in the right places. And the chassis handles driving on difficult sections of the road and transporting heavy loads much better. The downside is that such SUV models have problems dampening vibrations on the body.
Pros and cons of frame construction
Frame models have more tuning options. For example, if a car owner wants to install larger diameter wheels, or get a “lift,” he will be able to afford it. The second point is related to the road accident. If your car is in an accident, a frame car is much easier to restore.
If we talk about the chassis, here it will be more reliable and will last longer, subject to regular maintenance. If you have to operate the car in difficult conditions, off-road, or tow other cars, a frame jeep has a better chance.
There are disadvantages, and for many owners they are very noticeable. For example, the presence of a frame immediately affects an increase in weight and a decrease in interior volume. We have to look for a way out in lightweight materials, increasing the body size, etc. Increasing the weight of the car has a negative impact on its efficiency. A heavier jeep is more difficult to rip off. Fuel consumption increases.
In most cases, the handling of frame SUV models is worse. They are also inferior in such a parameter as passive safety. Determining deformation zones is very problematic.
Frame SUVs in Russia
In our country, such cars have been produced for quite a long time. The most famous of them is the UAZ Hunter. The Ulyanovsk jeep in its now familiar form has been produced since 2003. But, in essence, this is just a modernization of an old car that has been produced since the early seventies. And that, in turn, was based on the GAZ-21 Volga. If you look at the design, you can understand that it is a reference to the “military” past, like the Hummer, Gelendvagen and Land Rover Defender.
If you want a body-on-frame SUV with all-wheel drive and a more modern design, take a look at the UAZ Patriot. This is a kind of Russian Land Cruiser, only several times cheaper, and, of course, less comfortable. Although the ground clearance and dimensions are approximately the same. For a small additional payment you can get a car with ABS and air conditioning. There is a choice of diesel and petrol units.
Modern frame SUVs in China
We first decided to recall the Chinese brand Great Wall. This manufacturer has several SUVs and pickups that use a standard body-on-frame design.
Firstly, this is the Wingle 5 pickup. In the base it is cheaper than the UAZ, but if you want all-wheel drive, the price is about 20% higher. The engines on it are either Japanese from Mitsubishi (petrol), or their own, produced using licensed Bosch technologies.
Two other popular cars are the classic Haval H3 and Haval H5 jeeps. The first uses a two-liter engine, produced under Japanese license, and has ABS and EBD. The car breaks all stereotypes about Chinese quality, receiving 4 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.
The “Five” has a higher price, a Bosch diesel engine, created jointly with Great Wall engineers. Connectable all-wheel drive. Transmission is either automatic transmission - 5 or manual transmission - 6.
Models from South Korea
They are true to traditions in South Korea too. We did not compile a list of frame SUVs of all brands produced in this country, but we selected interesting and inexpensive ones. The Ssang Yong brand, popular in the CIS, is considered a second division manufacturer in South Korea, behind KIA and Hyundai. But it cannot be said that the products are noticeably inferior to competitors.
The flagship Rexton crossover is a living example of the fact that cars with a frame structure remain relevant. Available with petrol and diesel engines. Versions before and after restyling are available. The price difference between them is about a thousand dollars. Crossovers Kyron, Actyon and Actyon Sports (pickup with a diesel engine and automatic transmission) are also produced. The cars are assembled not only in South Korea, but also at factories in Kazakhstan, Russia and Ukraine.
One of the leaders in the South Korean market is the KIA Motors brand. The Mohave crossover with a frame structure is produced here. It is produced at home, as well as in Kaliningrad and Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan. The five-door SUV has been produced since 2008. The appearance of an updated version 2016-2017 was recently announced. She will receive engines:
- diesel 3.0 l./255 hp
- GDI 3.7 l./276 hp
There are 3 automatic transmission options available – 5, 6 and 8-speed.
Japanese jeeps with frame construction
We list the best frame SUVs produced in Japan. Let's start with Nissan. This manufacturer offers two SUVs and two pickups of this type. The modern version of the Pathfinder comes with a frame. As standard, you get all-wheel drive and a diesel engine. Transmissions are both automatic and classic mechanics.
The latest generation Nissan Patrol has an integrated frame. The suspension is independent. To what extent can this car be classified in the described category? It is possible, but only partially. Earlier generations had a classic frame design.
There are also NP 300 pickups and the expensive, comfortable Navara. Both with 2.5 l. diesel and manual transmission. But if the first one is good for the suburbs, then the second one can be used to drive around the city in style. Mitsubishi has two cars on the same platform - L 200 and Pajero Sport. The engine of the first one is the same as that of Nissan, 2.5 liters, automatic transmission-4.
Who offers the largest list of body-on-frame Jeeps is Toyota. There is a very large choice here:
- FJ Cruiser - produced since 2007. 4-liter engine, classic design, all-wheel drive, automatic transmission with manual shift;
- Fortuner is an SUV based on Hilux. Available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions. The engines are 2.7 and 4 liter petrol, as well as 2.5 liter diesel. and 3 l. with Common Rail;
- 4Runner is a Jeep produced since 1984. Now the 5th generation is being produced with a 4-liter unit and automatic transmission-5, all-wheel drive;
- Land Cruiser 200 and 150 Prado. The famous “Kruzaks” are produced in gasoline and diesel versions, and are extremely successful;
- Hilux is one of the most successful pickup trucks in history. There are 2.5 l/144 hp diesel engines. with automatic and 3 l./172 hp. with mechanics.
- Tundra is a huge pickup truck produced since 2000. The modern generation with a 5.7 liter petrol engine and automatic transmission 6. The Sequoia SUV, which is even larger than the Land Cruiser, has the same hardware.
The small but remote Suzuki Jimny will join our list of frame crossovers and SUVs. This is a kind of “Japanese UAZ”, only with air conditioning and security systems. It’s difficult to call it comfortable to ride. But this is a full-fledged all-terrain vehicle, simple and reliable. Available only with a 1.3 l/85 l petrol unit. With. There are 2 transmissions to choose from – automatic transmission-4 and manual transmission-5.
Another frame “baby” is the Daihatsu Terios. Permanent all-wheel drive and high reliability, 1.3 and 1.5 liter engines. The all-wheel drive version turned out to be even cooler than the more expensive and prestigious RAV4.
European frame SUVs
The most famous representative of Europe is the German Mercedes G-class. What can I say - “Geliki” are known and loved all over the world, and our country is no exception.
The list of SUV brands with a frame construction continues with another expensive jeep - Land Rover. It is very different from Gelendvagen. Firstly, it is not so comfortable, and secondly, it is completely different to drive. Land Rover Defender is available with a 2.4-liter turbodiesel and all-wheel drive.
Also worth mentioning is the Volkswagen Amarok. This is a pickup truck available in two and four-door versions. The first car rolled off the assembly line in 2009. Produced in Argentina and Germany. The car took part in the Dakar Rally, received 4 Euro NCAP stars, and overall performs well.
Models from the USA
The Americans decided to keep up with their Japanese colleagues. They produce quite a few representatives of an endangered family that, it seems, have no plans to go extinct. Chrysler has two directions at once. These are Jeep Wrangler SUVs, which have the most classic design possible, and RAM 1500/2500/3500 pickups.
If you look at the most famous SUVs in the world, Jeep will be among the first. He is a true legend of the global automotive industry. Available with 3 and 5 doors, equipped with gasoline and diesel engines. Manual/automatic transmission to choose from. Produced since 1987. Now the 3rd generation is on the market. The coolest and most off-road is Rubicon.
Since 2011, Dodge Ram has been simply called RAM - a solid pickup truck in which you will feel equally comfortable in the city and on a country road. The choice of engines is huge. But the most popular HEMI is 5.7 liters. A very powerful and very gluttonous unit.
If we continue to list American frame SUVs, the list of the best will continue with the Ford F-150 and the no less popular Expedition. The first is one of RAM's competitors - a powerful pickup truck. The second is a classic SUV. Now the 3rd generation of these cars is being produced with 3.5 and 5.4 liter engines and 6-speed automatic transmission.
Let's not forget about the huge Cadillac Escalade SUV. The car is also produced with an extended wheelbase and as a luxury pickup truck. It is extremely popular in the USA. The choice of engines is limited to one 6.2 liter petrol unit, which is equipped with a reliable automatic transmission.
Now the fourth generation Tahoe is on the market with 5.3 and 6.2 liter EcoTek engines. Powerful V-shaped eights have a power of 360 and 426 hp. With.
What is better - an all-wheel drive crossover or a frame SUV?
There are many car enthusiasts who are convinced that the era of real all-wheel drive cars is over. They believe that cars like the Opel Mokka and Nissan Juke are nothing more than toys for girls and hipsters. When leaving a more or less flat road, both cars can easily get stuck in the first mud puddle, and after jumping over bumps for two years, they will simply crumble into separate parts.
But let's face it - people want to ride in comfort. Several years ago there were comparative tests of these two crossovers and the mentioned Jimny. Modern brands of jeeps are purely city cars, designed for driving on flat/relatively flat roads. When going off-road, which we do quite often, we get the practical uselessness of cars like the Juke.
The USA and Japan understand this very well, which is why the production of classic jeeps does not stop. As long as the world has countryside, steppes, prairies and bad weather that turns any road into a destination, a classic SUV with all-wheel drive and a reliable frame will be in demand. We have not yet learned how to fly over an expensive car, and an air cushion has not become the generally accepted norm either. Therefore, there is no point in waiting for the “death” of a whole galaxy of famous cars.
There is no war between SUVs with a monocoque body and jeeps with a monocoque frame. These machines are created for different conditions and different people. There are many motorists who may have a UAZ in their garage for fishing and a Mokka for everyday trips around the city. In Europe and the USA, this phenomenon has also long become the norm.
Americans are similar to Russians in that the majority are conservative. And in such a matter as the creation of machines, they are doubly faithful to traditions. Can you imagine the Wrangler as an SUV with a monocoque body? We are not, and the engineers at Chrysler are also unlikely to see such a prospect even in their nightmares.
We have offered you for your consideration a list of SUVs of all brands (almost all) produced with a frame structure. Mentioned are those that are still in production. If we started to remember those cars that have already been discontinued, we could write not an article, but an encyclopedia. This concludes our review. If you used it to choose your future car, we hope that the information was useful.
By that time, many brands began to produce mass-produced models, the production of which was sought to be made cheaper and simplified, among other things, by reducing material consumption and simplifying assembly technology. The then common designs with a frame chassis and bodies on a wooden frame did not lend themselves to this, and, despite the higher price of steel, bodybuilding reoriented from wood to metal.
The bodies began to be made from stamped metal parts. The designers, who had at their disposal the technology for stamping frame parts of the required profile and strength, could only strengthen the spatial structure of the body to the extent that it could carry the components and assemblies of the entire car.
By that time, calculation methods and metalworking technologies had reached a level where it became possible to achieve low weight and sufficient rigidity of a three-dimensional system during mass production.
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Lancia Lambda Torpedo 4 Series 1922-1924
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Opel Olympia 1935-1937
Thus, in fact, the monocoque car body was born. The first frameless production passenger cars were the Italian Lancia Lambda (1922) with an open dashboard body. Then there was the compact Opel Olympia sedan (1935) and the front-wheel drive Citroen 7 Traction Avante (1934), which later became legendary. They showed that a frame for a mass-produced passenger car is not at all necessary. But these cars were akin to today's Tesla or BMW i8. Everyone knew about them, but very few had them.
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Fracture
By the middle of the twentieth century, another significant advantage of an all-metal monocoque body over a frame structure emerged. The public began to care about the passive safety of vehicles. Crash tests have shown that cars with a spar frame are dangerous in the most common collisions - frontal ones.
The too rigid frame did not allow the front end of the car to deform and absorb the impact energy to the required extent; as a result, passengers in the cabin received fatal injuries from hitting interior parts.
For a frameless car, it turned out to be much easier to calculate deformation zones for the most “popular” types of collisions and ensure the safety of the “inhabited capsule.” The monocoque body also allowed the designers, when it was significantly crushed from a frontal impact, to direct the heavy power unit under the bottom, and not into the cabin, as often happened with a frame structure closed from below by rigid side members.
Thus, a whole complex of reasons has emerged that led to a move away from the widespread use of frame structures:
1. The emergence of technologies for the production of load-bearing bodies of low mass and sufficient rigidity;
2. The fight for lighter cars;
3. The desire to increase the useful volume of the body;
4. The desire to improve vehicle handling by lowering the center of gravity;
5. Increasing requirements for vehicle passive safety.
1942 Nash car. The body reinforcements are highlighted in the picture.
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Ford Crown Victoria police interceptor
For these reasons, frame structures lasted in the American auto industry until 2011, when the plant that produced the last of the full-size Mohicans, the Ford Crown Victoria, which we all know from American action films of the 1990s and 2000s as the main police transport, was closed.
The car was durable, durable and comfortable, although by today's standards, with its significant dimensions (5.4 x 2.0 x 1.5 m), it could not boast of adequate space in the cabin. The next Ford police officer - the Taurus Police Interceptor sedan (we wrote about it in the article about) - is already made according to an all-supporting design.
What about off-road?
Things weren't so simple in the SUV community: stripping them of their frames without significant losses turned out to be more difficult. At a minimum, because driving on bad roads or off-road, one way or another, involves frequent “hanging” of the car - its diagonal skew.
In order to ensure that the geometry of the supporting body is preserved, it is necessary to significantly strengthen it with additional gussets, spacers, and more powerful beams. Otherwise, distortions of the openings with the inability to open or close the door, or even fatigue cracks in the most loaded areas, are inevitable. The situation is aggravated by the fact that most SUVs have large five-door bodies, which make it even more difficult to ensure spatial rigidity.
In general, the designers were unable to completely “take away” the frame from large SUVs - they made it integrated. In other words, lightweight parts of a conventional frame were built into the power frame of the body. First of all, these were longitudinal spars, developed to a three-dimensional shape in certain “regions” of the body. This is what the creators of the third generation Land Rover Discovery (2004) or the second generation Suzuki Grand Vitara (2005) did.
Suzuki Grand Vitara and Land Rover Discovery
And one of the pioneers of the integrated frame among uncompromising SUVs was. At birth in 1966, “Volynyanka” received a lightweight open body, in the bottom of which a spar frame made of longitudinal and transverse beams was welded. We have already written in detail about the history of this amazing car.
It should be noted that by losing a frame, representatives of the glorious tribe of harsh “rogues” risk losing the opportunity to have many close “relatives” - a certain number of variations of bodies and models. After all, it is the frame chassis that facilitates the creation of "
In order to decide on a list of the best and most famous frame SUVs, you need to define the phrase “frame SUV” itself.
All “jeeps” are divided into two categories:
- SUVs with a monocoque body. In such cars, suspension elements are attached directly to the body.
- Frame SUVs. The basis of such cars is a frame to which both the body and suspension elements are attached.
Real off-road enthusiasts choose frame vehicles. Firstly, such cars have minimal body roll. And secondly, such cars are more reliable and durable.
Many global automakers produce cars with a frame. Domestic car factories are also involved in production. It makes sense to consider popular models of frame SUVs from specific manufacturers.
UAZ frame SUVs
The Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant named after Lenin produces two models of frame SUVs in various modifications. These are "UAZ Hunter" and "". "Hunter", as the name of the car suggests, is an ideal vehicle for fishermen and hunters. But, also, it has been “adopted” by law enforcement agencies. The car body is made in a military style, so you don’t have to worry too much about the appearance if the Hunter gets caught on a branch or snag somewhere in the forest. Put some makeup on, apply some makeup – and off you go!
"Patriot" is a car for those who like to drive an SUV around the city. It has a more stylish design, compared to the Hunter design, a high waist, and impressive dimensions. But even off-road, the Patriot will not yield to the Hunter. At the moment, a modification “Patriot Sport” is also being produced, which. in addition to high cross-country ability, it also has increased power, the ability to accelerate quickly, etc.
Great Wall
Chinese industry is gaining momentum, including in the automotive industry. The leader in the production of Chinese frame SUVs is, of course, the Great Wall company. It produces models: Safe, Pegasus, Hover and Sing.
Probably the most popular model in Russia is Safe. This device looks very powerful and brutal. However, this is rather the “village” version. It wouldn’t be a shame to test such a car in extreme off-road conditions. At the same time, the 2.2-liter engine consumes only 11 liters per 100 kilometers.
The most famous model, thanks to the work of advertisers and marketers, became the car. The car is equipped with a front independent torsion bar suspension and a spring rear suspension. Engine volume – 2 liters. Power – 122 horses.
Considering the fact that Hover was designed and the experience of the Japanese companies Toyota and Mitsubishi was used, the car turned out to be very good. Stylish design, good fit of body parts, modern “filling” - all these are factors contributing to the popularity of this model. It’s true that a Hover in good configuration is not cheap.
SsangYong
Another company specializing in SUVs. Due to the relatively low cost of the models, the company is often classified as Chinese. But this is not so - this is a South Korean company.
Two models of frame SUVs from this company are popular in Russia: Kyron and Rexton.
The first of the models is more budget-friendly. It has a smaller engine capacity and less horsepower, but you can buy a Kyron for up to 1 million rubles. Rexton is considered the flagship of the car plant. It is more powerful and comfortable. However, the difference is not as great as they say in advertising.
Cadillac
General Motors holds its mark. Among the car models produced by this company there are also frame SUVs. And what kind!
The legendary Cadillak Escalade is power, strength, roominess, cross-country ability and much more. In a word, a luxury SUV. In particular, these cars are equipped with a six-liter engine with a capacity of 400 horsepower. Some models are equipped with a hybrid engine.
For those who financially cannot handle an Escalade, a “budget” SUV from GM is available – the SRX. True, this model can only be called budget in relation to the Escalade. The SRX is equipped with a three-liter engine with a corresponding number of horses.
Chevrolet
This company produces the following frame SUVs: Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
Recently, the TrailBlazer model has become popular. High ground clearance, wide-set wheels, plenty of space in the cabin, good finishing and an attractive price are the factors that force consumers to buy this car model.
Of course, the Tahoe is an off-road legend. Perhaps this car has everything you need to get out of some deep canyon in the USA. Traditionally, the car is equipped with a V-engine with a capacity of more than 320 horsepower.
Ford SUVs
Ford produces a number of frame SUVs. Among them: Ford Bronco; Ford Everest; Ford Expedition; Excursion.
Among them, naturally, the Expedition model stands out. This is a full-size body-on-frame SUV with a 3.5-liter turbocharged engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and manual gear shift. You can really go on an expedition with this car. It has everything: from parking sensors to a satellite communication system and an emergency warning system. The interior trim is available in two options: “wood-look” and “aluminium-look”.
Hummer
The list of frame SUVs would be incomplete without including cars of this brand. There are currently three versions of the Hummer: 1, 2 and 3.
Hummers are often seen around town. But this car is certainly designed for the most severe conditions. It’s not for nothing that the American military uses it in military operations.
Nowadays, a used Hummer can be purchased relatively inexpensively. But before purchasing such a car, the buyer must think: will he be able to “feed” such a car?
Infiniti
The Infiniti QX and Infiniti QX80 models are also body-on-frame SUVs. But it seems that a lover of real off-roading will give preference to other manufacturers. Infiniti is a status car for businessmen. Moreover, for businessmen who are doing very well. The price tag for such cars is about 4 million rubles.
Jeep
Jeep Cherokee, Jeep CJ are the very models thanks to which the class of frame SUVs received the common name “Jeep”.
Separately, it is worth mentioning the Wrangler model, which is a descendant of the legendary Willys car, which took part in World War II. Of course, over the course of its existence, the Wrangler has undergone a huge series of changes. But much about this car remains unchanged: high cross-country ability, reliability and safety.
Lexus and Toyota
Most car lovers know that the two indicated brands are “relatives”, so they are combined into one group.
Lexus produces the Lexus GX and Lexus LX body-on-frame models. Moreover, as in the case of Infiniti, these are cars that can cope with off-road conditions, but more often such cars are driven on the smooth asphalt of large cities.
Toyota produces body-on-frame cars: 4Runner; Blizzard; FJ Cruiser; ; Land Cruiser (Prado, 200, Cygnus); Sequoia.
Naturally, the most popular of them is “Kruzak”. Which, in general, is also more suitable for driving around the city than for rally competitions.
Mercedes
This German company also produces a number of frame SUVs. It is noteworthy that it was on a Mercedes SUV. A simple German pilot was able to travel around the world. However, there were no critical problems with the machine.
This article mentions only the most popular and well-known models of frame SUVs. In fact, there are many more of them produced in the world, but in order to cover in detail each produced model of a frame SUV, you probably need to sit down to write a book on this topic. And this book will most likely contain more than one volume.
Frame SUVs are reliable transport for Russian roads, especially during the spring period when there are no roads. They are performed by experienced racing drivers. The female gender also masters them, as we have already discussed. Let's determine the best in this category.
Leading automakers
If you look at all the automakers in the world, many of them produce a body-on-frame variation of the Jeep. There are both compact and large specimens. Among the best frame SUVs there are well-known brands, as well as less popular automakers that can surprise you with the quality, reliability and capabilities of their models. When choosing SUVs based on reliability and frame resistance to loads, preference should be given to the following companies:
- Jeep.
- Land Rover.
- Mercedes.
- Toyota.
- Mitsubishi.
- Nissan.
- Hummer.
- Chevrolet.
As you can see, there are big names, as well as some less popular and sought-after brands. Even a domestic product was included in the rating, which is something our engineers can be proud of. But in terms of characteristics, the difference is small if we consider purely off-road qualities. Although there are clear leaders in this parameter. Now we invite you to find out what the top frame SUVs are and who is included in the list of the best jeeps in this category.
Domestic hunter
I would like to start with a domestic car. UAZ-315195 Hunter replaced the obsolete 469th model, which existed on the assembly line for 30 years. Only the external outlines remain common, everything else is completely new. The most significant restyling occurred under public pressure in 2015, when Ulyanovsk announced the cessation of production of the hunting series.
The updated Hunter received a special expeditionary version. The technical characteristics are almost identical, but the special version is distinguished by a standard traction device and a bright, noticeable body color. The front power side of such a machine is suitable for using a jack, and the rear arches are designed taking into account the use. By default, the classic version comes with R16 city tires, and the expedition version comes with All-Terrain tires. And the seats in the classics are easy to wash.
Defender's car
This is us about Land Rover Defender. At the time of writing, the last car on sale was a two-liter with 122 horsepower, produced in 2014. But in general, SUVs rolled off the assembly line until 2016. The all-wheel drive Defender was literally littered with plastic - from the body to the instrument panel. This move lightened the weight of the car, but did not harm safety - this is completely in order. With this car, the owner is ready for everything that awaits him on the road.
In 2019, the company In 2019, Land Rover will celebrate its 70th anniversary. By this significant date, Defender fans will receive a new generation of their idol. Technical data is still classified, but it will definitely be no worse than its predecessor. The official premiere has not yet taken place; the vehicle is undergoing field testing.
Mid-size SUV. In our country, the brand has launched production of cars at a site in Naberezhnye Chelny. For some time, Russian car enthusiasts could purchase Kremenchug-assembled cars, but now they are not on sale.
The assertive character and dynamism of the car are reflected in its clear and sweeping lines. Inside the cabin there is exceptionally soft, practical plastic. Under the hood is an internal combustion engine running on gasoline or diesel. It produces an impressive 181 horsepower. Safety is also at the highest level with all the standard options.
A rugged SUV in the best traditions of the Wild West. It only has four-wheel drive and special filters to comfortably move through the steppes and swamps of the whole world. As in many cars of this class, plastic with excellent ergonomic properties dominates here.
The uniqueness of the car lies in its gasoline engine with a record power of 272 horsepower and a 9-speed automatic transmission, setting the bar for other car manufacturers.
The motto of the car is comfort knows no bounds. The current model year Mojave combines athletic build with no-nonsense solidity. The SUV has become even more comfortable, especially for the driver. His chair now remembers comfortable positions. And the electric drive adjusts the driver's seat to the owner's figure.
The developers also took care of security. New airbags, belts that do not compress or interfere with blood circulation are just a small part of all the innovations that await the owner and passengers of this masterpiece from South Korea.
Under the hood it has a powerful V6 engine. It produces 250 horsepower. In combination with all-wheel drive, this is a guarantee of reliable speed characteristics and overcoming any obstacles. If desired, you can pull the iron horse out of a difficult quagmire.
This SUV gets even better with every model year. Every appearance of the owner of this car will cause, if not a crowd of photographers, then an abundance of enthusiastic representatives of the opposite sex. All elements present the car enthusiast exclusively in the best light, presenting status as a priority.
There are a lot of communication solutions inside the car. These include USB ports, hatches, and containers. All this was done with only one goal - to make the trip comfortable, although some car enthusiasts are skeptical about oversized cars. But Cadillac confidently holds its course thanks to the built-in stabilization system. Another captivating feature is the 426-horsepower, 6-liter engine – a real record in the field of off-road vehicles. Escalade is capable of helping vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons.
This car has one cool feature - small headlights are lost against the background of the large dimensions of the vehicle. But this has its own chic, because the likelihood of headlight damage in an accident is significantly reduced.
The range includes exclusively restylings of the Y61 and Y62 generations. Drivers can choose a three- or five-door version of the 61 model and only a five-door version of the 62 version. Each of them contains a full range of safety and comfortable options. There are only 3 petrol engine options. The Y61, the first of which came out in 2004, is offered with engines of 145 and 280 horsepower. And the generation 62 restyling of 2014 - only with a 405-horsepower engine. All these cars have their consumers, although the new Patrol costs more than 5 million rubles.
The German manufacturer has significantly improved its legendary SUV. The metal-plastic W463 was replaced by the steel aluminum W464. The doors, hood and mudguards are made of aluminum. Everything else is made of high-strength steels. The car has a 9-speed automatic transmission. By optimizing the mechanisms, it was possible to free up additional space for passengers. The increase in wheelbase also helped. The new 422-horsepower engine has become even more economical - it consumes 11 liters of terrain - the differential lock is now triple.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Conclusion
Now frame SUVs, which a couple of decades ago were the real kings of off-road, are gradually giving way to modern models of jeeps and crossovers with a monocoque body or an integrated frame.
Comfort and efficiency are put at the forefront, and cross-country ability and reliability are relegated to second place. Nevertheless, such cars have their own segment - they are popular in North and South America, Russia, the countries of the Near and Middle East, as well as Africa. In a word, where “road surface” is a rather relative concept, and to get from point “A” to “B”, you need to use a “framework” or an armored personnel carrier.
Let's look at the most famous SUVs on a frame that were produced before and now.
One of the most famous cars in the list of frame SUVs, produced in a pickup truck, first saw the light back in 1968. Initially, the Hilux was not focused on cross-country ability - the engine was too weak, the wheelbase was small and the single-wheel drive did not allow the pickup to tackle serious off-road conditions. The same applies to Honda Pilot, which we wrote about in a previous article.
But everything changed with the introduction of the third generation Hilux Regular Cab in 1978. For the first time, it was equipped with all-wheel drive, powerful and torquey engines - 1.8 and 2.4 liter petrol engines, and 2.2 liter diesel engine.
The SUV was actively sold and was appreciated in third world countries.
Suffice it to say that the Libyan-Chadian war of 1986–87 was called the “Toyota War” due to the fact that Chadian troops actively used Toyota Hilux pickups.
The powerful frame made it possible to install a heavy machine gun and a rocket launcher in the body, and the unpretentious engine and indestructible suspension provided Chadian army units with amazing mobility in the desert.
According to military experts, the use of these frame SUVs allowed Chad to repel an attack by the much better armed Libyan army. Afterwards, in many African and Middle Eastern countries, field commanders widely used the car as patrol vehicles, light fire support and for transporting goods.
Starting from the fifth generation, Hilux becomes more comfortable and less utilitarian. There are a lot of options, several cab options and the like - but the frame structure remains unchanged.
The modern eighth generation of Toyota Hilux was launched into production in May 2015. A new reinforced frame with increased rigidity provides the chassis with the necessary solidity, allowing it to overcome any off-road conditions.
As power units, the Hilux is equipped with two variants of powerful and responsive diesel engines with a volume of 2.4 and 2.8 liters, 150 and 177 liters. With. respectively, 6-speed manual transmission and the same automatic transmission. The first has a torque of 400 Nm, the second – 450 Nm. All this, coupled with a ground clearance of 227 mm in the low part of the chassis, makes the pickup a king on any off-road.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Land Cruiser is rightfully considered one of the most popular frame SUVs in the world. Although it currently confidently occupies the premium segment, one of the representatives of which is the 2016 Toyota Prado, for quite a long time it was a “workhorse”, designed specifically for use in difficult conditions and calmly competed with the leading American SUVs on the market.
Success for the Land Cruiser, which fully justified the nickname “Land Cruiser,” came with the advent of the 60 series.
Here, for the first time, the combination of a simple independent leaf spring suspension, a powerful diesel engine and a ladder-type frame was tested, which brought success to the model and was subsequently used on other modifications.
The apotheosis was the 100th series, produced since 1998.
Despite the fact that it belongs to the premium SUV segment, off-road performance is impeccable. Impact-absorbing elements began to be installed in the frame, and in the 105-series, a modernized version of the “hundred”, dependent front suspension is still used to this day. Also, a new line of power plants has been developed for the LC 100, including gasoline and diesel engines that work well at low and medium speeds.
Nissan Patrol
Appearing in 1958 as a continuation of a licensed copy of the American Willys Jeep, Patrol 4W65 and subsequent versions were offered exclusively for the needs of the army. But since the end of 1960, these frame SUVs entered the civilian market, where they were appreciated by residents of rural areas - the powerful frame made it possible to transport up to a ton of cargo in the back, and the reliable and unpretentious suspension made the car almost indestructible on any terrain.
The Patrol 160 model, produced since 1960, was seriously modernized, and the designers managed to combine reliability, cross-country ability, comfort and a relatively low price in the car.
The SUV has become so successful that in Middle Eastern countries, for example, in Iran, it is still considered one of the most popular.
A reinforced frame with spring suspension and solid axles, simple and unpretentious diesel engines and a two-stage transfer case allowed the car to overcome any obstacles. We should not forget about the frankly simple and reliable design of the chassis, which rarely failed.
Until 2010, two more versions of inexpensive frame SUVs appeared in the Nissan Patrol family: Y60 and Y61.
They were modernized in terms of improved comfort - the suspension became softer, because springs and levers began to be installed instead of springs, a spacious interior of better quality, etc. More powerful power units also appeared: diesel engines from 2.8 to 4.2 liters (112-200 hp) and petrol V-shaped 4.5 and 4.8 l. Particularly popular were the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated diesel engines TD42, most of which were equipped with a simple in-line injection pump - the engines easily “maintained” 200-400 thousand km without major repairs in very harsh conditions.
But the flagship version of the Patrol Y62 is a rather controversial model. Immediately after its appearance, it became clear that it enjoys commercial success exclusively in the oil monarchies of the Persian Gulf (like Gelik Brabus), where they prefer only two types of cars - elite sports cars or huge premium-segment SUVs.
While maintaining its cross-country ability (frame, ground clearance, transfer case and a powerful 5.6-liter engine with a torque of 560 Nm and 400 hp), the SUV acquired too many options aimed at comfort. As a result, the price is about 4 million rubles not in the top configuration - naturally, buying such a car for off-road driving is at least stupid.
When starting a conversation about frame SUVs, we must not forget about the American market, where such off-road conquerors are in well-deserved demand. There are several reasons - from the need for actually light and passable trucks for various needs and to the presence of serious off-road conditions in the same Colorado, Montana, Nevada and Alaska.
That's why monsters like the Dodge Ram 1500 are very popular in the USA - a real pickup truck that can easily carry half a ton of cargo.
A powerful frame with mixed (torsion bars + springs) or spring suspension, all-wheel drive and a displacement engine has become the calling card of the model. The first generation was launched in 1981, and Dodge introduced the fourth in 2012.
The new Ram 1500 features improved body aerodynamics, a reinforced frame and a wide range of engines, the weakest of which is a 3.7-liter gasoline V-six with a capacity of 218 hp. With. But for those for whom this is not enough, they can order a version with gasoline engines of 4.7, 5.7, 8.0 and 8.3 liters, as well as two powerful turbodiesels of 5.9 and 6.7 liters.
Concluding the review of the best frame SUVs, we need to mention one of the most titled representatives of this type - the famous LR Defender, the undisputed winner of almost all known trophy raids.
It is noteworthy that for many years during production - and the first Defender was released in 1948 - the car's spartan appearance and poor interior did not affect its popularity at all.
In general, as fans of the model joke, Defender’s appearance is as conservative as Britain, which remains a constitutional monarchy.
Essentially, this SUV is a searing mixture of strengths and weaknesses. The ladder frame, coupled with long-travel suspension, good body geometry, torquey low-speed diesel engine, all-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case and a locking center differential provide phenomenal cross-country ability on steeply rough terrain.
In 1997, several enthusiasts managed to drive this car to Elbrus - a documented fact.
But on the other hand, comfort in Defender is an extremely relative concept even in the latest models, unlike the compact crossover Range Rover Evok. The developers left it spartan and simple - the side mirrors are adjusted manually, not to mention the frankly uncomfortable back row seats and other disadvantages. But the Defender is a living legend, sitting in which you can look down on any, even the most expensive SUV.
Video
For dessert, watch a video where real jeeps overcome severe off-road conditions. Crossovers never even dreamed of.
