Owners of SUVs call any place where they are going to drive - even if they have to move on the roofs of cars covered in mud or swamp. This is one of the reasons that such impressive cars are popular in some countries with problematic road surfaces (let's not poke a finger).
Four-wheel drive and increased cross-country ability also require structural changes to the vehicle. After all, it would be strange if a car designed for off-road driving required repair after any exit from a flat surface.
We understand this not only we, but also the manufacturers. Therefore, such a phenomenon as a frame SUV appeared. These vehicles are characterized by rigidity, stability, endurance and a reduced risk of damage. What can I say, if even the lunar rovers were based on just such a design. Even considering that the frame base adds weight, there was no better option for exploring lunar soil.
One can argue for a long time about the ratio of the quality of Russian roads and the lunar surface, but the fact remains - the frame really makes the car more durable and increases its cross-country ability.
A classic proven over the years and off-road
The classic performance of such a design has become increasingly rare over the years. Traditionally, the frame was used as a kind of skeleton on which the most important units (engine, suspension, axles) were attached.
Today, the percentage of cars built in this way is steadily falling. Carmakers are striving to make cars lighter and more maneuverable. The first thing that goes to scrap is the frame construction, even classic models are being re-equipped. However, some manufacturers still do not abandon technologies tested by stones and dirt and deliberately release SUVs on a frame. Such cars, immediately after their appearance on the market, are endowed with epithets that emphasize their "old school and authenticity."
There are several types of frames:
- staircase
- spinal
- peripheral
- fork-spine
- supporting base
- lattice
The most used are ladder frames. They are made from beams, reinforced in places that will be subjected to maximum load. Parts are connected by welding, rivets or bolts.
Frame construction advantages:
- Comfort for passengers. Vibration and unpleasant sound are transmitted to the body to a lesser extent
- Durability. Extended chassis life reduces the chance of breakage
- The load is evenly distributed to the frame and body. This eliminates the appearance of rolls.
- Installation of large engines, with decent power and torque, able to help out even in the most difficult road situation
- Simple assembly. Since the units are mounted on the frame, and the trim and interior are installed on the body, specialists have the opportunity to divide the work among themselves
- Self-modification of the body. Several modifications can be created on the basis of the same chassis
- The SUV can be lifted. That is, it is permissible to install wheels with a larger diameter, increasing the ground clearance.
- In addition, frame SUVs are ideal for towing other vehicles.
The main drawback is the increased weight and "gluttony". The handling is slightly complicated due to the high center of gravity and mutually directed deformation of the frame and body. But even despite this, not only extreme lovers, but also the most ordinary motorists, express a desire to buy a frame SUV.
Let's leave the theoretical calculations to specialists, and we ourselves will move on to the real implementation of the technology. It is still customary to drive an SUV, not discuss it. And on the request "frame SUVs list" the user wants to receive a specific list of cars, and not a boring listing of advantages. So let's go!
Cars with a masculine character
The best frame SUV is the legendary Gelendvagen, produced since 1979. At least, this is stated by numerous ratings and polls of professionals. The standard version in Russia offers 2 engines: a three-liter diesel engine and a 5.5 liter gasoline engine. The first is perfect for off-road, the second is a more option for daily use.
The absence of a road with such a car is a relative concept. Whether it is a slope of up to 80% or a shallow ford - the car will comfortably take you to your destination. The only negative is the price. But this is a Mercedes-Benz G!
In addition, a small restyling was carried out in 2013. There are not many external changes: a new radiator grill, and LED running lights. Inside, the update is a little more significant: the steering wheel and dashboard from the new M-class. There was a parking aid system and technology for tracking "dead" zones.
Cars of comparable class - Lexus GX, Infiniti QX80, Land Rover Discovery, included in the line. All of these SUVs also underwent minor alterations in 2013. Models of 2014 can already be found on the Russian market, there would be money.
A reasonable question arises: what inexpensive frame SUV can be found on our roads now?
Domestic SUVs
The most reliable frame SUV is the UAZ 469. Proofs? They drive around us through the streets. All-metal monster of Russian roads, the command vehicle of the Soviet army.
Seriously though, the more or less modern models of the Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant, Hunter and Patriot, are really distinguished by high quality and traditionally high cross-country ability. And most importantly, they are framed. So the link between generations remained unbreakable.
Asian models
If the domestic auto industry is a terrible insult for you, then attention can be paid to frame Chinese SUVs. In terms of availability, they take second place after their own UAZs.
A prominent representative is the Great Wall Wingle 5. This is a pickup truck based on a frame. It is produced in two versions: with all-wheel drive and with one drive axle.
The Korean company SsangYong also has a whole army of crossovers on the frame. One of the most popular models is the Kyron car. The starting cost for dealers is about 20 thousand dollars.
The price is comparable to that of Actyon Sports - a frame SUV made in the form of a pickup truck. Representatives of the company define this model as a car created for talented and motivated people.
Speaking about Asian manufacturers, do not forget that there are Toyota frame SUVs. Even after leading manufacturers abandoned body-on-frame technology, the Japanese said they would not stop producing such cars as long as they retain loyal customers. The proof of these words was the appearance of the 4Runner SUV 2014 - a restyled model of the fifth generation. It has a rather fresh, angular design and a considerable number of improvements aimed at improving comfort.
It is equipped with a 4-liter engine with 270 hp. Available in two models: plug-in or all-wheel drive. In general, the list of frame Japanese SUVs commands respect: here is the Land Cruiser Prado and the relatively inexpensive Toyota Hilux.
"Eternal" cars
So immodest sometimes have SUVs on the frame. Although there is some truth here - 15-20 year old models of such cars look younger than their peers in another class. You can argue as much as you like which frame SUVs are better than others, which ones are more reliable and cheaper. The essence of this does not change - such cars give a fantastic feeling of safety and high comfort of movement on any roads.
In this article, we mentioned a rather interesting Great Wall Wingle 5 car, about which we have not yet heard and whose engine review we want to demonstrate to you:
Frame SUVs are reliable transport for Russian roads, especially during the absence of roads in the spring. Experienced race car drivers perform on them. The female gender also masters them, as we have already discussed. Let's define the best in this category.
Leading car manufacturers
If you look at all the automakers in the world, many of them produce a frame version 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 with the quality, reliability and capabilities of their models. When choosing SUVs for the reliability and stability of the frame 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 a few less popular and sought-after brands. Even a domestic product was included in the rating, which 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 propose to find out what the top frame SUVs are and who entered 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 469 model, which existed on the assembly line for 30 years. Only the external outlines remained in common, everything else is completely new. The most significant restyling occurred under public pressure in 2015, when the Ulyanovsk residents announced the termination of the 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, a bright noticeable body paint. The front power board of such a machine is suitable for jack use, and the rear arches are designed for use. By default, the classic version comes with R16 city tires, and the expeditionary version comes with All-Terain tires. And the seats in the classics are easy to wash the base.
Defender car
This is us about the Land Rover Defender. At the time of this writing, the last car on sale was a two-liter with 122 horsepower in 2014. 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 dashboard. Such a move lightened the weight of the car, but did not damage safety - this is a complete order. With this car, the owner is ready for everything that awaits him on the road.
In 2019 Land Rover will celebrate 70 years of founding in 2019. For this momentous date, Defender fans will receive a new generation of their idol. Technical data are still classified, but they will definitely not be worse than their predecessor. So far, the official premiere has not taken place, the car is in field trials.
Mid-size SUV. In our country, the brand has launched the production of cars at the site in Naberezhnye Chelny. For some time, Russian car enthusiasts could purchase cars assembled from Kremenchug, but now they are not on sale.
The assertive character and dynamism of the car are reflected in its clear and fast lines. Inside the cabin there is an exceptionally soft, practical plastic. Under the hood is an internal combustion engine running on gasoline or diesel. It produces an impressive 181 horsepower. Security is also top notch with all standard options.
A harsh SUV in the best traditions of the Wild West. It has only four-wheel drive and special filters to comfortably move around the steppes and marshes 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 the record-breaking 272 horsepower gasoline engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission, setting the bar for other car manufacturers.
The car's motto is comfort knows no bounds. This model year's Mojave combines athletic build and business 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 squeeze and do not interfere with blood circulation are only a small part of all the innovations that await the owner and passengers of this masterpiece from South Korea.
It has a powerful V6 engine under the hood. It produces 250 horsepower. In combination with all-wheel drive, this is a guarantee of reliable speed characteristics and overcoming any obstacles. If desired, it is possible to pull the iron horse out of the difficult quagmire.
This SUV gets even better with every model year. Each 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 tons of communication solutions inside the car. These are USB ports, hatches, containers. All this was done with only one goal - to make the trip comfortable, although some motorists are skeptical about oversized cars. But the Cadillac is steadily heading thanks to the built-in stabilization system. The engine with a capacity of 426 horses and 6 liters also captivates - 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 damage to headlights in an accident is significantly reduced.
The range includes exclusively restyling of the Y61 and Y62 generations. Drivers can choose between three or five-door versions of 61 models and only the five-door generation of 62 versions. Each of them contains a complete set of safety and comfort options. There are only 3 petrol engine options. The Y61, the first of which came off in 2004, is offered with 145 and 280 horsepower engines. And the generation 62 restyling in 2014 - only with a 405-horsepower engine. All these cars have received their customers, 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 received a 9-speed automatic gearshift. By optimizing the mechanisms, it was possible to free up additional space for passengers. The increase in the wheelbase also played to the advantage. 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
Cars with improved cross-country ability are being sold out in Russia today like hot cakes. This is not surprising, because only they allow you to feel confident during outdoor activities, fishing, hunting. The best frame SUVs of 2018 are characterized by near-universal flotation, a reliable frame structure, impressive ground clearance, four-wheel drive and differential locks that allow you to distribute engine power in an ideal way. The rating of the most successful frames to date may look like this.
UAZ Patriot: the best of domestic SUVs
On the seventh place of the list is the good old one in a new body. In addition to its striking appearance, it has many other advantages. The front bumper is fixed to the body, and does not "dangle" on the mounts, like in other jeeps. In addition, the stabilizer located in the rear suspension significantly improves the driving performance of the model. The interior of the car is made with modern materials and boasts a touchscreen display on the dashboard.
The technical characteristics of the car are also remarkable: the 2.7-liter gasoline engine develops 135 forces, consuming only 12 liters of fuel per hundred kilometers, while it is very reliable and time-tested. The SUV has rear-wheel drive and the ability to connect the front, a five-speed traction gearbox, as well as the proven dependent rear suspension, reliable brakes.
Haval H9: the best Chinese "frame"
According to many auto experts, the best Chinese frame SUV is. It not only looks modern and well equipped, but also offers an excellent price / performance ratio. This model was developed for the US market, but today it has become the most popular in the Middle Kingdom itself.
The four-wheel drive car is very close in size to, but in terms of equipment it is almost a Lexus. The model is especially proud of its high-torque 190-horsepower engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission developed in Germany. Both the driver and passengers will appreciate the comfortable leather interior, the possibility of expanding the number of seats to seven, as well as the abundance of comfortable and safe systems that come to Hawal H9 with every upgrade.
Mitsubishi Pajero: purebred Japanese quality
Most of the SUV experts are ready to put in a word for it. Thanks to a powerful frame structure and a 250-horsepower updated engine capable of pulling a fairly massive body behind it, this model received a rather honorary title of "king of off-road".
When creating this rear-wheel drive vehicle with front axle connectivity, the Japanese clearly knew they could further improve its performance: independent front and rear suspensions, as well as ventilated brakes "in a circle". In our top, he is in fifth place.
New products from Chrysler on the way to the top three
The American corporation Chrysler is quite responsible in the production of off-road vehicles, and every year it is ready to provide several models ready to rush to conquer the most difficult off-road. It is not surprising that on the way to the podium in the rating of frame frames, two cars from this manufacturer at once came up with approximately equal indicators.
Jeep Wrangler - America's Renewed Legend
From the updated model, fans of the brand have finally waited for a little more comfort in the cabin than it was in previous generations, a slightly softer suspension and slightly nimble engines. Now it is a full-fledged all-wheel drive "tramp", capable of transporting its owner where, perhaps, no one else can. And the ideal value for money and almost endless possibilities for tuning will make the car a welcome friend of fishermen, hunters, farmers and other categories of motorists who buy a car not for "show-off", but for the purpose of pragmatic use "for wear and tear."
Jeep Cherokee - a good combination of design and ergonomics
Jeep Cherokee never claimed the status of the budget frame itself - and after the last restyling, this model will cost an average of 3-3.5 million rubles. However, for this money, the buyer gets an excellent cross-country ability, interior comfort and additional options, a car that is almost impossible to "kill".
The choice of the car owner will be presented with a gasoline 3.6-liter engine, capable of producing more than 270 forces, and a 2-liter diesel engine, which, although significantly weaker - "only" 170 "horses", is much more economical. The motors will work with very durable multistage gearboxes, which, together with the softest suspension in the class, provide excellent ride comfort.
Nissan Patrol - third place in the rating
If the appearance of a huge, brutal and expensive "rogue" from Nissan raises questions, then its interior is much more interesting - and is able to deliver the driver and passengers a true aesthetic pleasure from travel.
It may seem to amateurs that this huge car will accelerate slowly, feel unimportant on problem tracks and poorly manage, but practice has shown that this is not entirely true: the 405-horsepower gasoline "eight" allows you to "sink the pedal" on the track, feel confident in a tight city parking lot and not be afraid to get stuck in a forest clearing.
Mercedes-Benz G-class: brutality at a very reasonable price
The second place in the top of frame SUVs deservedly went to the "German" from Stuttgart, better known among fans as. The combination of brutal, refined appearance, excellent materials used for interior decoration, and the most reliable, powerful power units (volume from 3 to 6 liters and capacity from 245 to 630 "horses") deservedly distinguishes it on the road from among competitors.
Fans of the European car industry love the Mercedes G-class for its calm and confident behavior on the road, excellent suspension, which with each new generation of the car gets better, as well as a pleasant opportunity to relax a little not only in the cabin, but also behind the wheel of this engineering miracle - an abundance of electronic assistants will not let the driver make a mistake!
Toyota Land Cruiser: Maintaining Leadership for Clear Advantage
In terms of the ratio of reliability, prestige, price and quality, the new frame SUV of the 2018 model year, as it seems to auto experts, has further strengthened its position in the first place of the top. The car is distinguished by an extremely low number of breakdowns compared to other cars, so the Land Cruiser is in demand both "new" and in the secondary car market.
The latest updates have seriously improved the entire engine compartment of the SUV and especially its 4.5-liter power plant, which can work in tandem with both "mechanics" and "automatic". Decent dimensions, finishing materials and comfortable options will also become competitive advantages when choosing this frame SUV.
Conclusion
The difficulties of choosing a good frame SUV are today, rather, in the inability to navigate the variety of models that the modern market offers. The top cars listed here include only models that have been tested by time and auto experts, which means that you can trust this choice!
Off-road vehicles come with different body designs - in some cars the body itself is the supporting one, in others such an element is the frame.
In this article, from the entire list of frame SUVs, we will try to determine the best models, but immediately note that "the best SUV" is a relative concept, each motorist determines for himself what he likes best.
Advantages and disadvantages of the frame structure
Off-road vehicles in Russia are gaining more and more popularity every year, and there are many different brands of crossovers and SUVs on the Russian market. Cars with a frameless body are becoming more and more, someone believes that the frame structure is gradually becoming obsolete. There is also an opinion that only a frame SUV (RV) can be considered a real all-terrain vehicle - the frame gives the body rigidity and reliability, and the car goes through all obstacles like a tank.
So, the advantages of PB:
- a car with a frame on all bumps and bumps is more stable, it does not shake it so much from side to side;
- the frame allows you to carry more cargo and passengers, as it is structurally more rigid;
- for RV less often it is required to set the camber-convergence angles;
- in case of an accident on the "frame", the geometry of the body is less disturbed;
- vibrations are less noticeable on the frame structure, and it is more comfortable to ride such an SUV;
- the design of the RV is simpler, it is easier to get to the suspension elements on it.
There are also disadvantages of "frames", it is because of them that manufacturers often abandon the frame:
- the price of a frame SUV is higher;
- when installing the frame, dimensions and weight increase;
- fuel consumption of "ramnikov" is higher;
- a more powerful engine is needed for the RV.
But the frame has another very big plus: it often saves passengers in the cabin in an accident - strong metal does not fold into an accordion. 
List of frame SUVs
There are a lot of RVs in the world, and it is difficult to list all the brands, so we will give the most popular models that exist in the world:
- Chevrolet Blazer / Tahoe / Suburban;
- Dodge Durango;
- Ford Expedition / Bronco;
- Ford Explorer (up to 2010);
- Great Wall Hover 3 / Hover 5;
- Haval H7 / H9;
- Hyundai Galloper / Terracan;
- Infiniti QX80;
- Isuzu Axiom;
- Jeep Cherokee / Wrangler;
- Ford Kuga;
- Land Rover Defender;
- Lexus LX;
- Mersrdes G-class;
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport / Pajero;
- Nissan Patrol / Armada / Terrano;
- Opel Frontera / Monterey;
- Ssang Yong Rexton / Kyron;
- Suzuki Jimny / Samurai;
- Tagaz Tiger;
- Toyota Land Cruiser 200 / Prado;
- UAZ Patriot.
Real frame SUVs are considered the best in cross-country ability, they allow you to overcome various obstacles:
- snow drifts;
- sand dunes;
- rocky terrain;
- impassable clay.
Most often, RVs are equipped with a plug-in all-wheel drive, and have no equal in off-road qualities, crossovers and SUVs are far from "frames". Many more frame SUVs are being designed:
- with differential locks;
- transfer case;
- reduction gear;
- permanent all-wheel drive;
- with electronic center clutch.
There are models with variable ground clearance - adjustable ground clearance allows you to solve various problems, use vehicles both off-road and on a flat highway.
List of the best frame SUV models
If we consider the top-end RVs, then several models should be noted here:
- Mercedes Gelendvagen;
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport;
- Nissan Patrol;
- Infiniti QX80;
- Toyota Land Cruiser 200.
Mercedes-Benz Gelendvagen is a full-size G-class all-terrain vehicle, produced since 1979, two generations have changed during its release, and in 2018 it is planned to launch mass production of the Mercedes G-Class-3 in the back of the W464. The German SUV was originally equipped with two gasoline and two diesel engines, all models were equipped with a 4-speed. Front-wheel drive manual transmission. A short-wheelbase car is produced with a wheelbase of 2400 mm, a long-wheelbase - 2850 mm. Motors Mercedes G-class are not particularly economical - the power of the internal combustion engine on SUVs of the AMG series reaches 500 horsepower. 
The mid-size Japanese RV Pajero Sport from Mitsubishi was first introduced in 1996, it was created on the basis of the Mitsubishi L200 pickup truck. The second generation of cars has been produced since 2008, since 2013, the assembly of the Pajero Sport-2 has been carried out in Russia (Kaluga). The model from Japan is distinguished by almost fantastic cross-country ability, high reliability, Sport-2 has a very spacious trunk, has a warm comfortable interior. The main disadvantages of the brand are not very good sound insulation, poor paintwork, and rather high fuel consumption. 
Toyota Land Cruiser 200 is another striking representative of Japanese SUVs with very good build quality, with excellent technical characteristics. The Land Cruiser model has been produced since the distant 1951, the 9-generation Land Cruiser 200 has been mass-produced since the end of 2007. The most important quality of Toyota SUVs is reliability; this car also has a high level of comfort. In the Russian market, the model is in great demand, and often car owners sell a used car for almost the same price as they bought. 
Nissan Patrol - also a model produced for several decades, is a direct competitor to Toyota's Land Cruiser brand. Patrol is produced with short and long base, in three- and five-door versions. The car is characterized by a powerful frame, bridges with a one-piece body, rather impressive dimensions. In 2017, the 6th generation Nissan Patrol in the back of the Y62 comes off the assembly line. 
Infiniti QX80 has been produced since 2013, the SUV is based on the Nissan Patrol Y62 and is a premium car. The QX80 is equipped with only one type of engine - a 5.6 liter petrol G8 with a capacity of 405 horsepower. The dynamics of the SUV is impressive, it is able to accelerate to "hundreds" in 6.5 seconds. 
Inexpensive frame SUVs
Pajero Sport, Qx80, Patrol, Land Cruiser, Gelendvagen models are very high quality, reliable and comfortable cars, but all of them have one serious drawback - the high price. Among the low-cost SUVs, Great Wall Hover, UAZ Patriot, Ford Kuga, Suzuki Jimny should be noted.
UAZ Patriot - the cheapest car of all the models presented, has been produced at the Ulyanovsk plant since 2005. The main advantages of the machine:
- maintainability;
- excellent cross-country ability;
- spacious salon;
- good handling;
- low cost of spare parts and maintenance.
The main disadvantages of the UAZ:
- weak insulation;
- unreliable gearbox;
- body's susceptibility to corrosion;
- poor build quality.
The UAZ Patriot SUV has a lot of drawbacks, but a lot is forgiven for its low price - in 2017, a car in the basic configuration can be bought from 780 thousand rubles. Taking into account promotions and special offers, the cost can be much cheaper, besides, UAZ Patriot is included in the recycling program, where the client is given an additional discount. 
Great Wall Hover, like the UAZ Patriot, has been produced since 2005, the Hover is the first Chinese car to be exported to Europe. Hover H5 users like the high cross-country ability of the car, moreover, the SUV feels great on roads with any surface. The car has a spacious interior and spacious trunk, modern design. The main disadvantages of the car are not very good build quality, weak dynamics. 
The cost of the "frame" in 2017 is about one million rubles, taking into account special offers, the new Hover 5 can be bought for 850 thousand. Another plus of the Chinese car - for this money, the Super Luxe equipment (leather interior) with a large set of additional options is offered. A used Great Wall Hover with mileage in the secondary market costs from 400 to 650 thousand rubles, there are very good offers.
Suzuki Jimny is the most compact car of all frame SUVs, its length is only 3.8 meters. Also, the car is equipped with subcompact 1.3 and 1.5 liter engines; in the restyled version of the FJ, the car has been produced since 2012. Suzuki is characterized by reliability and endurance, high maneuverability and good dynamics. In car dealerships in Russia, RV can be bought for an average of 1.1-1.2 million rubles, with a 1.3 gasoline engine, complete sets with an automatic or manual transmission are offered. 
New frame SUVs
Recently, all-terrain vehicles with a frame structure have become less and less, however, SUVs are being produced, and new models are also appearing. In 2015, the 3rd generation Ford Everest was launched into mass production, the car was created on the basis of the Ford Ranger. The car was designed in Australia, but the model is being built in Thailand. 
The mid-size Chinese SUV Foton Sauvana was first shown at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2014. The car is presented in a five-door station wagon, the package includes 17-inch alloy wheels, multifunction steering wheel, multimedia with a 7-inch display. Sauvana is equipped with two types of engines:
The chassis is based on a ladder-type frame, in the 4x4 all-wheel drive version, the front axle is rigidly connected, a six-speed "mechanics" or 6-speed is installed on the machine. Automatic transmission, depending on the configuration. The approximate price of a car is about 1.5 million rubles.
Every car, including real SUVs, has a skeleton like us humans. Exactly this "skeleton" attaches to itself all the elements of the car body and hinged systems. This frame is referred to as the supporting frame structure of the vehicle.
The frame system of cars changes every year. Leading car companies, focusing on consumer demand, change the design of the frame to please customers. Once there was a time when all "crooks" and SUVs were put on the frame, now everything is different. There are only a few "mastodons" who remain unchanged in their traditions. After all, there is still gunpowder in the flasks and the market is replete with the presence of real "frames".
What is a frame structure
The frame is, in fact, the heaviest part of the car. If we take the average ratio, then the mass of the car frame is 15% from the total mass of himself. The frame must combine all the most technological qualities, be strong, durable and light at the same time. Constructive the frame system is based on longitudinal beams that are connected by crossbars. The number of beams is not static and may vary depending on the car brand and its purpose.
Often, frames are made with variable widths: widened at the engine and narrowed in the area of the rear axle. Riveted frames have become more widespread. Their manufacture is quite simple, and manufacturability is at a high level. Small-scale production also includes bolted connections. It also provides for the production of all-welded frames, which are often used in heavy road vehicles. The body is attached to the frame brackets by bolts, which are rubberized with thick pads to reduce the vibration level that the body receives.
The advantages of frame construction in SUVs
1. The frame has a fairly simple design with well-developed design techniques.
2. The frame, located separately from the body, greatly enhances the comfort of the passenger car.
This provides the best vibration and noise isolation from tires and assemblies.
4. The same frame can serve as the basis for various modifications and even cars. The frame is easily lengthened and this does not in any way affect the loss of strength. This practice is used in the creation of multi-axle trucks, limousines or extended buses.
5. The frame structure contributes to a simpler factory assembly of the car, which reduces its cost, because all the main units are assembled directly on the frame, after which the body is attached to this structure. Such a structure is much simpler than a separate fastening of the units on a carrier-type frame.
6. On one frame, you can mount different passenger bodies, which vary in design and have various modifications. For example, Ford Crown Victoria models from 1979, 1992 and 1998 had almost the same frame, but the bodies changed depending on the trend of the times and new technologies.
7. Repair of a frame body and its restoration after an accident or road accident is quite simple.
Conclusions from the above suggest themselves: simplicity, rigidity and indestructibility. What else is needed for a true off-road conqueror?
A quick look at the 10 best frame-mounted SUVs of the past 50 years
Now we will try to provide a list of 10 best frame off-road over a half-century history of the automotive industry. Someone may disagree with this opinion, but it is based on an in-depth study of the characteristics of frame vehicles with off-road potential.
The first in our impromptu list of the best "frames" No wonder this particular car deserves the title of the crown of our review. The Japanese frame SUV market has been popularized through Toyota's painstaking efforts. Many connoisseurs of the world of automobiles say with confidence that the Land Cruiser is one of the most or even the best frame "rogue" in the whole world. The legendary "Kruzak" began the victorious march by the world back in 60s years of the last century. But he made a real splash in 1987 with the release of the model. Land Cruiser 70.
This car indicated the correct vector for the development of all SUVs in the family. And it was this model that took on those features that can be traced to this day and which have been imprinted in the hearts of many Toyota SUV lovers. This is a remarkable cross-country ability, reference level comfort and, most importantly, the reliability and survivability of the car. LC 80 The success of the “seventy” firmly rooted, and the famous “weaving” became a cult and acquired the status of a living legend in Ukraine and other countries. As we mentioned earlier, motorists appreciate the performance of these vehicles.
It is paradoxical and such a phenomenon of the secondary market that "Kruzaks" from the second, or even third, fourth hands almost do not lose their value, and LC 100 in perfect condition, garage storage is even more expensive.
Hummer
There are probably no people who do not know the name of this brand. The legendary all-terrain vehicles from the United States at the beginning of their journey were operated exclusively by the military authorities and they were valued and are still famous for their cross-country ability and utility. Of course, it could not help but become the property of civilian consumers. Demobilized "Hummer" did not lose its skills as a fighter, remaining a powerful car with phenomenal cross-country ability.
After a while, the company General motors released a completely civilian car with the H2 index. Its size was impressive, and the price comparable to them, too. For all its cumbersome treasure chest charm, this model retains everything on which the H1 name was written - frame, continuous axles and high-volume high-torque engine... A little later, they released the smallest of the Hummers, the H3 frame-based crossover. True admirers of the brand appreciate the model "H1 alpha", which was assembled in 2006.
The legendary Briton is renowned for its excellent cross-country ability and reliability. The design of the “defender” (this is how it is translated from English as defender) and its appearance have not changed in any way during the more than thirty-year history of the model's existence. This passable off-road vehicle is renowned for its high-torque engine.
This model also has disadvantages that can be attributed to comfort due to its uncompromising nature. But it was not created in order to relax and imposingly roll on the asphalt. This is a real conqueror of the wilds. He always and remains reliable, powerful and resilient everywhere... Where did this "frame" pass and what peaks it did not conquer?
Jeep wrangler
Like the previous all-terrain vehicle, Jeep faithful to his traditions and therefore as close as possible to the "Briton". "Yankee" is equipped with "honest" all-wheel drive, dependent axle suspension and impressive exit angles. And if we take into account the version Rubicon then it's just a wheeled tank! Both axles have forced interlocks, and the reduction ratio of the "transfer" is 4: 1!
For this, the brand name has become a household name, denoting all SUVs. But unlike the "British", it is much more adequate in behavior on an asphalt surface, both in terms of acceleration and handling. The salon here, although not a luxury item, but also more comfortable than the "defender", especially if you take the version Unlimited with five doors. In addition to all this, you can add another plus to the exterior of this car - driving without a roof! Charismatic Wrangler can be completed with a soft roof.
Toyota FJ Cruiser
A very interesting and truly incredible representative of the world of SUVs, which has a huge potential for cross-country ability with modern on-board technology. Superior handling and motoring solutions make this SUV a unique piece of automotive engineering. The main advantages of the FJ Cruiser include the following:
- short base on a frame structure, large diameter wheels and huge ground clearance;
Unique all-wheel drive system;
Powerful motors with perfectly adjustable torque;
Comfortable premium class salon;
Wonderful equipment on board the vehicle.
Everything about this car makes the FJ Cruiser an incredible purchase option for those who love passable vehicles with unlimited possibilities and amazing potential.
Nissan patrol
And again "Japanese". Patrol from the company Nissan we respect no less than LandCruiser from Toyota. Like many frame SUVs, this vehicle is renowned for its military roots. Now NissanPatrol known as a comfortable frame SUV with a powerful engine for eight passengers. For all his polish, he is not going to give in to the difficulties of off-road.
He is "Gelandewagen", as well as the more famous in the circles of motorists as "Gelik" or "Cube"... This device is coveted by all men, starting from the age of testosterone production. It's just such a hypertrophied testosterone-filled syringe. And the roots are still the same - the army. Since that time, the civilian "G-class" has not parted with the frame, rigid bridges and high-torque engines. In addition to all this, "Gelik" more than managed to realize and lay on the subconscious level the status of a prestigious, stylish and expensive car.
Mitsubishi pajero
Another frame from Japan. It has simply incredible popularity in our country in all manifestations of its four generations. "Padzherik" is appreciated everywhere for its cross-country ability and unpretentious maintenance and care.
Chevrolet tahoe
A reference American SUV that is like a ship sailing on a road. The frame construction, enormous weight and gluttony all make it a favorite of American users. "Tahoe" is so loved for its size, powerful six-liter engine and manual transmission. The variant is also known "Tacho" in a long base called "Suburban".
Truly the most worthy "frame" among the most affordable. Its production started back in 2003, but everyone knows that this model is the reincarnation of a UAZ from distant 1972. In simple terms, a modern "Okhotnik" interpretation of Russian manufacturers Land roverdefender and Mercedes G-class. The second "frame" from UAZ is "Patriot". Outwardly, it looks more relevant than the "Hunter", and in size and clearance it will be able to compete with the "Kruzak". Our Patriot is also available as a pickup truck. The choice of engine equipment is also quite large, there are both diesel and gasoline units.
