Every car, including real SUVs, has a skeleton just like us humans. Exactly this "skeleton" attaches to itself all the elements of the car body and hanging systems. This frame is called the supporting frame structure of the car.
The frame system of cars changes every year. Leading automotive companies, focusing on consumer demand, change the design of the frame to please customers. Once there was a time when all "rogues" and SUVs were placed on the frame, but now everything is different. Only a few "mastodons" remain who remain unchanged in their traditions. After all, there is still gunpowder in the powder flasks and the market is replete with the presence of real "frames".
What is a frame structure
The frame, in fact, is the heaviest element 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 basis of the frame system are the longitudinal beams that are connected by crossbars. The number of beams is not static and may vary depending on the brand of the car and its purpose.
Often, frames are made with a variable width: widened at the engine and narrowed in the area of the rear axle. Riveted frames became more widespread. Their manufacture is quite simple, and manufacturability is at a high level. Small-scale production also provides for a bolted connection. It also provides for the production of all-welded frames, which are often used in heavy road equipment. The body is attached to the frame brackets with bolts, which are rubberized with thick spacers that reduce the level of vibration that the body receives.
Advantages of a frame structure for SUVs
1. The frame has a fairly simple design with well-established design methods.
2. Separately located from the body frame perfectly increases the comfort of the car.
This provides better vibration and noise isolation from tires and units.
4. The same frame can serve as the basis for various modifications and even cars. The frame is easily extended and this does not affect the loss in 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 mounting of the units on a carrier-type frame.
6. On the same frame, you can mount different passenger bodies, which vary in design and have various modifications. For example, the 1979, 1992 and 1998 Ford Crown Victoria models had almost the same frames, but the bodies changed depending on the spirit of the times and new technologies.
7. Repair of a frame body and its restoration after an accident or an accident is quite simple.
The conclusions from the above suggest themselves: simplicity, rigidity and indestructibility. What else is needed for a real off-road conqueror?
A Brief Review of the 10 Best Frame SUVs of the Last 50 Years
Now we will try to provide a list of 10 best frame off-roads for half a century of automotive history. Some may disagree with this opinion, but it is based on an in-depth study of the characteristics of frame cars with off-road potential.
The first in our impromptu list of the best "frames" It is not for nothing that this particular car deserves the title of the crown of our review. The Japanese frame SUV market was popularized thanks to the painstaking efforts of Toyota. Many connoisseurs of the world of cars claim 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 procession of the world back in 60s years of the last century. But he made a real sensation 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 had those features that can be traced to this day and which are imprinted in the hearts of many SUV lovers from Toyota. This is a wonderful cross-country ability, comfort of the reference level and, most importantly, the reliability and survivability of the car. LC80 firmly rooted the success of the “seventies”, and the famous “weave” 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.
Paradoxically, such a phenomenon of the secondary market is that “Kruzaks” from the second, or even third, fourth hands almost do not lose their value, and LC100 in perfect condition of garage storage and do rise in price.
Hummer
There are probably no people who would 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 but become the property of civilian consumers. Having been demobilized, the Hammer did not lose its skills as a fighter, remaining a powerful car with phenomenal cross-country ability.
After a while the company GeneralMotors released a completely civilian car with the H2 index. Its size was impressive, and the price comparable to them, too. For all its bulky treasure chest charm, this model retains everything that the H1 name was made on - frame, solid axles and high-torque large-displacement engine. A little later, they released the smallest of the Hummers, the H3 frame-based crossover. True admirers of the brand appreciate the "H1 alpha" model, which was assembled in 2006.
The "British", which has become a legend, is famous for its excellent cross-country ability and reliability. The design of the “defender” (that is how defender is translated from English) and its appearance have not changed in any way in more than thirty years of the existence of the model. This passable off-road vehicle is famous 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 roll along the asphalt in a relaxed and imposing manner. This is a real conqueror of the wilds. He always and always remains reliable, powerful and hardy. Where only this “frame” did not pass and what peaks it did not conquer.
Jeep Wrangler
Like the previous all-terrain vehicle, Jeep true to its traditions and therefore as close as possible to the "British". The Yankee is equipped with an “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 bridges have forced locks, and the reduction ratio of "razdatki" is 4:1!
For this, the name of the brand, denoting all SUVs, has become a household word. But unlike the "British", it is much more adequate in behavior on an asphalt surface, both in terms of acceleration and in terms of handling. Salon here, though 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 off-road vehicles, which has a huge potential for cross-country ability with modern on-board technologies. Excellent solutions in terms of handling and engine range make this SUV just a unique creation of automotive design. 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 tuned torque;
Comfortable premium class cabin;
Wonderful equipment on board the car.
Absolutely everything about this car makes the FJ Cruiser an incredible purchase for those who love off-road 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 car is famous for its military roots. Now Nissan Patrol known as a comfortable frame SUV with a powerful engine for eight passengers. With all its gloss, he is not going to give in to off-road difficulties.
He is "Gelandewagen", as well as the more famous in the circles of motorists as "Gelik" or "Cube". This device is coveted by any man, starting from the age of testosterone production. It's just such a hypertrophied syringe filled with testosterone. But the roots are the same - the army. Since that time, the civilian "G-class" has not parted with the frame, rigid axles and high-torque engines. In addition to all this, "Gelik" more than managed to realize and lay at 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 valued everywhere for its cross-country ability and unpretentious maintenance and care.
Chevrolet Tahoe
The reference American SUV, which is like a ship sailing on the road. Frame construction, huge weight and gluttony all this makes it a favorite of American users. "Tahoe" is so loved for its size, powerful six-liter engine and manual transmission. Known and variant "Tacho" in a long base called "Suburban".
Truly the most worthy "frame" among the most affordable. Its production began back in 2003, but everyone knows that this model is the reincarnation of the UAZ from the distant 1972. In simple terms, the modern "Hunter" interpretation of Russian manufacturers Land Rover Defender 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. We have "Patriot" is also available in the form of a pickup truck. The choice of engine equipment is also quite large, there are both diesel and gasoline units.
In order to determine the 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 load-bearing body. In such cars, the suspension elements are attached directly to the body.
- Frame SUVs. At the heart of such cars is a frame to which both the body and suspension elements are attached.
Real off-road lovers choose frame cars. Firstly, in such cars, body roll is minimal. And secondly, such cars are more reliable and durable.
Many global automakers produce cars with a frame. They are engaged in production, including domestic automobile plants. It makes sense to consider popular models of frame SUVs from specific manufacturers.
Frame SUVs UAZ
"Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant named after Lenin" produces two models of frame SUVs in various modifications. This is "UAZ Hunter" and "". "Hunter", as the name of the car suggests, is the ideal vehicle for fishermen and hunters. But, also, he is “adopted” by law enforcement agencies. The body of the car is made in the style of "military", so you should not worry too much about the appearance if somewhere in the forest the "Hunter" caught a branch or a snag. Touch up, smudge - and 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 fit, and impressive dimensions. But even off-road, the Patriot will not yield to the Hunter. At the moment, the Patriot Sport modification is also being produced, which. in addition to high cross-country ability, it also has increased power, the ability to quickly accelerate, etc.
Great Wall
The Chinese industry is gaining momentum, including in the automotive industry. The leader in the production of Chinese frame SUVs, of course, is Great Wall. It produces models: Safe, Pegasus, Hover and Sing.
Probably, in Russia the most popular model is Safe. This device looks very powerful and brutal. However, this is more likely just a "village" version. It is not a pity to test such a car in maximum off-road conditions. At the same time, the 2.2-liter engine eats up only 11 liters per 100 kilometers.
The most famous model, thanks to the work of advertisers and marketers, was a car. The car has a front independent torsion bar suspension and a spring rear suspension. Engine capacity - 2 liters. Power - 122 horses.
Given the fact that the Hover was designed and used the experience of the Japanese companies Toyota and Mitsubishi, the car turned out to be very good. Stylish design, good fit of body parts, modern "stuffing" - all these factors contribute to the popularity of this model. The truth is Hover in a good configuration is not cheap.
ssangyong
Another company specializing in SUVs. Due to the relatively low cost of models, the company is often referred to as Chinese. But it's not - it's a South Korean company.
In Russia, two models of frame SUVs from this company are popular: Kyron and Rexton.
The first of the models is more budgetary. It has a smaller engine size and less horsepower, but you can buy a Kyron for up to 1 million rubles. Rexton is considered the flagship of the car factory. It is more powerful and comfortable. However, the difference is not as great as advertised.
Cadillac
"General Motors" keeps the brand. Among the models of cars produced by this company, there are also frame SUVs. And what!
The legendary Cadillac Escalade is power, strength, spaciousness, cross-country ability and much more. In a word, 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 cannot financially pull the Escalade, a “budget” SUV from GM, the SRX, is being produced. True, this model can be called budgetary only in relation to the Escalade. The SRX is equipped with a three-liter engine with the appropriate 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 finishes and an attractive price are the factors that make the consumer buy the specified car model.
Of course, the off-road legend is the Tahoe. Perhaps this car has everything you need to get out of some deep canyon in the United States. Traditionally, the car is equipped with a V-shaped engine with a capacity of more than 320 horsepower.
Ford SUVs
A number of frame off-road vehicles are produced by Ford. Among them: Ford Bronco; Ford Everest; Ford Expedition; excursion.
Among them, naturally, the Expedition model stands out. This is a full-size frame SUV with a 3.5-liter turbocharged engine, a six-speed automatic, with the ability to manually shift gears. On this machine you can really go on an expedition. It has everything from parking sensors to a satellite communication system and an emergency alert system. Interior trim is available in two versions: “under the tree” and “under the aluminum”.
Hummer
The list of frame SUVs would be incomplete without the inclusion of cars of this brand in it. There are currently three versions of Hammer: 1, 2 and 3.
"Humvees" can often be seen in the city. But this machine, of course, is created for the most severe conditions. It is not for nothing that the American military uses it in military operations.
Now a used Hammer can be bought relatively inexpensively. But before purchasing such a car, the buyer should think: can he “feed” such a car?
Infiniti
The Infiniti QX and Infiniti QX80 models are also frame SUVs. But it seems that a real off-road lover 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 machines 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 that took part in World War II. Of course, during its existence, the Wrangler has undergone a huge series of changes. But much in this car remains unchanged: high cross-country ability, reliability and safety.
Lexus and Toyota
Most car lovers know that these two brands are “relatives”, so they are combined into one group.
Lexus produces frame models Lexus GX and Lexus LX. Moreover, as in the case of Infiniti, these are cars that can cope with off-road conditions, but more often these cars are driven on the smooth asphalt of large cities.
Toyota produces 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 city driving than rally competition.
Mercedes
This German company also produces a number of frame off-road vehicles. It is noteworthy that it was on a Mercedes SUV. A simple German pilot was able to travel around the world. At the same time, 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 much more of them in the world, but in order to cover in detail each model of a frame SUV produced, you probably need to sit down to write a book on this topic. And in this book there will most likely be more than one volume.
SUVs are cars that are not afraid of mud, snow, or Russian roads. Cars of this series are popular with motorists. On the market, frame SUVs are a success. They have a large resource, powerful power units are often installed on them, a high view makes it easier to manage. There are also disadvantages. These include greater "gluttony", due to the increased mass, controllability decreases, the cost of consumables increases.
The review presents frame SUVs presented on the Russian market in various price categories.
Domestic UAZ Patriot
Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant presented the updated UAZ Patriot. The update affected both the appearance and the interior of the car. First of all, the optics, equipped with running lights and consisting of LEDs, catches the eye. The radiator grille resembles the letter "V" and gives the car a serious look. The rear sets of headlights have increased in size, a brake light repeater is now installed on the fifth door. Rear-view mirrors are equipped with repeaters. Bumpers are not attached to the frame, as before, but directly to the car body, it looks much better than its predecessor.
Serious changes have also affected the interior. The driver and passenger seats are now supported, a multifunction steering wheel has appeared. The 7-inch on-board computer screen is a convenient means of navigation, full control of the car and shows everything that the driver wants to see on the road. There is a lot of space in the cabin, both front and rear.
In addition, if you fold the front seats, given the dimensions of the car, there are two full beds. A noticeable change is the electronically controlled dispenser. Four-wheel drive is no longer connected manually, it is enough to squeeze the clutch and turn the controller at neutral speed. The electronics do the rest. Of the useful improvements - pre-heating and a rear-view camera.
As for cross-country ability, the car retained the features of its predecessors. The Patriot feels great both on the track and on the fields washed out by rains. Anti-roll bars prevent the car from “throwing” on the highway at high speeds.
Taking into account possible discounts, the lower bar is 589 thousand rubles, for the maximum, with alloy wheels, winter preparation, a radio station and a diesel engine, you will have to pay 859 thousand rubles.
Frame Nissan Patrol
Nissan SUVs are large, but the new Patrol has fantastic dimensions - five meters long and two wide and high. At the same time, the driver’s landing is high, such dimensions do not interfere with handling. The interior is upholstered in leather, the space between the driver and front passenger is divided by a console. In any configuration, a multifunction steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch screen for the driver are available.
Surround and rear view cameras are preinstalled. On the second passenger row there is a DVD player, a refrigerator, air vents. In the third row, there are seats for passengers with seat belts, without additional options. Trunk volume - 500 liters. A 5.6-liter gasoline engine produces 405 "horses".
The car does not drive along the highway, but floats like a ship, thanks to the frame structure. Noise isolation is made in such a way that even the noise of the wheels and the engine is not audible. The automatic gearbox works smoothly, the speed is gained quickly and imperceptibly. Off-road driving options are:
- stones
- sand
- track
Fuel consumption is increased, which is not surprising for such a machine. Ideally, you will get 17 liters per 100 kilometers, in practice this is hardly feasible.
Buy Nissan Patrol it is possible from 3550 thousand rubles to 3900 thousand rubles. Cars are sold with one version of the engine and gearbox, the difference is only in additional equipment for the convenience of the driver.
Frame SUV Mitsubishi Pajero
The Japanese company Mitsubishi presents a new version of the famous Pajero. The appearance is made in the corporate style for the company. The car has increased in size, the body has become 90 mm longer, the roof has become 5 mm longer. Overall dimensions: 4.78 m long, 1.8 m high, 1.81 wide.
The car in a new body is equipped with a 2.4 diesel engine, has 181 liters. With. and 430 Nm of torque. Instead of a 7-speed, a smooth 8-speed automatic is installed. The manufacturer claims 15% fuel savings and reduced CO emissions. It is worth noting that a little later the Japanese promised to release a variant with a gasoline engine.
Prices have not been officially announced, but are rumored to be around 4 million rubles. Sales will start from the beginning of 2016. Surprisingly, in Russia they will be one of the first to start, and new Padzheriki will be assembled at the Kaluga plant.
Frame Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Standing apart is the Mersedes-Benz G-Class, known to us as the "gelik". The appearance of the 2016 lineup has not undergone any changes. A classic in fashion for years to come. Cosmetic changes have been made. Obvious leather interior, multifunction steering wheel, all the possible amenities that you can imagine - this is already there by default. The driver is offered assistance in driving, in any configuration there is ABS, ASR, EBA, EBD, ESP. Not to mention the dual-zone climate control and on-board computer, in a car of this class, the absence of such things is unimaginable.
The Germans presented four engine options:
G350 - 3 liter diesel, 245 horses
G500 - 4 liter diesel engine with 422 hp.
AMG versions:
5.5 liters, V8 engine, 571 hp
6.0 liters, V12 engine, 630 horses and 1 KNm of torque (!).
The car deserves only accolades. Excellent off-road qualities, the most modern filling, ageless appearance - this has long won the special love of car enthusiasts around the world. Only one minus, although it may seem insignificant to someone: the price.
You can not ignore the Chinese SUVs. Although there are many complaints and complaints about them, in general they have successfully occupied the niche of inexpensive cars. We note in advance that using them for real off-road trips is a bad idea. Chinese SUVs, even if frame ones, are suitable for driving on the highway and in the city.
The Chinese company Great Wall Hover is a popular brand in Russia
The Hover H5 model has a tolerable interior, the appearance is the merit of Japanese engineers. Build quality is normal. The car is equipped with climate control, a multimedia system, a rear-view camera and a heated front window. The driver's seat is electrically adjustable and heated. Noise isolation is not at the highest level, the sound of a running engine is heard in the cabin. Versions with automatic and "mechanics" are presented. "Ponizhayka" can be turned on only on a car with a manual transmission. The patency of this frame SUV is better than a crossover, but you should not take risks and intentionally storm off-road on this car.
It is supplied with engines of 2.4 l (136 hp, gasoline), 2.0 l (150 hp, diesel) and with a five-speed manual or automatic. The price will be about 900 thousand rubles, the direct competitor of the new UAZ Patriot.
Frame Haval H9
Haval H9 is the flagship of Great Wall. Appearance from afar resembles Toyota Prado, in size it corresponds to "adult" SUVs - 4.8 × 1.92x.19.1 m. The clearance height is 230 millimeters. No complaints and decoration, made of quality materials. Like the Nissan Patrol, the car is equipped with three rows of seats. We can say that the car represents the Chinese version of the Japanese Toyota Prado. Independent suspension, 8-speed automatic, three-zone climate control, entertainment for passengers, leather trim - this positions the Haval H9 as a business class car at an affordable price.
Equipment in Russia - a two-liter engine with 218 hp and a 6-speed "automatic" You can buy this "Chinese" at a price of 1.3 million rubles.
The niche of inexpensive frame SUVs is confidently filled by Chinese manufacturers. But I would like to warn potential buyers: these cars are not the best choice for traveling away from settlements and difficult terrain, although their quality is getting better from series to series.
An unequivocal answer to the question "which SUV is better to buy?" no and cannot be. Everyone picks up a car for themselves. For someone for fishing and daily driving, a good UAZ Patriot for a Russian manufacturer is quite suitable, and someone can afford a Gelendvagen of the maximum configuration. For a family, one will choose a hefty Nissan Patrol, while the other will purchase a Chinese jeep inexpensively and will be quite pleased with the purchase. In any case, the car market is growing and developing, and make the final choice after studying various offers.
SUV owners call any place where they are going to drive a road - even if they have to move on the roofs of cars covered in mud or swamps. This is one of the reasons such imposing vehicles are popular in some countries with problematic road surfaces (let's not point fingers).
Four-wheel drive and increased cross-country ability require structural changes in the car. After all, it would be strange if a car designed for off-road driving required repair after any exit from a flat surface.
Understand this not only we, but also manufacturers. Therefore, such a phenomenon as a frame SUV appeared. Such cars are characterized by rigidity, stability, endurance and a reduced risk of damage. What can I say, even if the lunar rovers were based on just such a design. Even if you consider that the frame base adds weight, the best option for lunar soil research has not been invented.
You can argue for a long time about the ratio of the quality of Russian roads and lunar coverage, but the fact remains that the frame really makes the car more durable and increases its cross-country ability.
Classic, proven over the years and off-road
The classic execution 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 this way is steadily falling. Automakers are striving to make ever lighter and more agile cars. The first thing that goes to waste is the frame structure, even classic models are being re-equipped. However, some manufacturers still do not abandon the technologies proven by stones and mud and deliberately release SUVs on a frame. Such cars immediately after the appearance on the market are endowed with epithets that emphasize their "old school and real".
There are several types of frames:
- staircase
- spinal
- peripheral
- fork-spinal
- load-bearing base
- lattice
The most used are ladder frames. They are made of beams reinforced in places that will be subjected to maximum load. Parts are connected by welding, rivets or bolts.
Advantages of the frame structure:
- Comfort for passengers. Vibration and unpleasant sound are transmitted to the body to a lesser extent
- Durability. Extended chassis life reduces the chance of breakdown
- The load is distributed evenly on the frame and body. This eliminates the occurrence of rolls
- Installation of engines of large volume, with decent power and torque, able to help out even in the most difficult traffic situation
- Easy 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
- Independent 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 of a larger diameter, increasing ground clearance
- In addition, frame SUVs are ideal for towing other vehicles.
The main drawback is the increased mass and "gluttony". Slightly complicated handling 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 let's move on to the actual implementation of the technology. It is still customary to drive an SUV, and not to discuss it. Yes, and for the request “frame SUVs list”, the user wants to receive a specific list of cars, and not a boring enumeration of advantages. So let's go!
Cars with a masculine character
The best frame SUV is the legendary Gelendvagen, which has been produced since 1979. At least, this is stated by numerous ratings and surveys 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 more of an option for daily use.
The absence of a road with such a machine is a relative concept. Whether it's a slope of up to 80% or a shallow ford - the car will comfortably deliver to your destination. The only downside is the price. But it's a Mercedes-Benz G!
In addition, in 2013 a small restyling was carried out. There are not so many external changes: a new grille, and LED running lights. Inside, the update is a bit more substantial: the steering wheel and dash are from the new M-Class. There was a parking assistance system and technology for tracking "dead" zones.
Cars comparable in class - Lexus GX, Infiniti QX80, Land Rover Discovery, included in the line. All these SUVs in 2013 also suffered minor alterations. Models of 2014 can already be found on the Russian market if there was money.
A reasonable question arises: what inexpensive frame SUV can be found now on our roads?
Domestic SUVs
The most reliable frame SUV is the UAZ 469. Evidence? They drive around us in the streets. An all-metal monster of Russian roads, a command vehicle of the Soviet army.
Seriously, more or less modern models of the Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant, Hunter and Patriot, are really of high quality and traditionally high cross-country ability. And most importantly - they are framed. So the connection between generations remained unbreakable.
Asian Models
If for you the domestic auto industry is a terrible insult, then you can pay attention to frame Chinese SUVs. In terms of availability, they take second place after native UAZs.
A prominent representative is the Great Wall Wingle 5. This is a frame-based pickup truck. Available 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 at dealers is about 20 thousand dollars.
Actyon Sports has a comparable price - a frame SUV made in the form of a pickup truck. Representatives of the company define this model as a car designed for talented and motivated people.
Speaking of 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 loyal customers remained. The proof of these words was the appearance of the 4Runner 2014 SUV, a fifth-generation restyled model. 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 a power of 270 hp. Two models are offered: with plug-in or all-wheel drive. In general, the list of frame Japanese SUVs is respected: here is the Land Cruiser Prado, and the relatively inexpensive Toyota Hilux.
"Eternal" cars
So immodestly sometimes they 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 the rest, which ones are more reliable and cheaper. The essence of this does not change - such cars give a fantastic sense of security and high comfort of movement on any road.
In this article, we mentioned a rather interesting Great Wall Wingle 5 car, about which not everyone has heard yet and whose engine review we want to show you:
They are really getting smaller. Others have not been radically updated for decades, experiencing only light restyling. Such cars are still mostly frame, with an enviable ground clearance and high-torque diesel engines.
One of the hallmarks of a real fighter is a powerful transmission with a transfer case, reduction gear and hard differential locks. A car with such a transmission can rightfully be called an SUV. Many manufacturers, emphasizing the remarkable all-terrain qualities, indicate not only the amount of ground clearance, but also the depth of the ford to be overcome.
Guided by common sense, we included in the review cars whose price in the basic configuration before the onset of 2015 did not exceed two million rubles.
Pickups were not considered - they are a separate issue.
Kia Mohave (points 1 and 6)
Frame. Gasoline, 275 hp; diesel, 250 hp; automatic box. Ground clearance 217 mm.
SsangYong Kyron (1)
Frame. Gasoline, 150 hp; diesel, 141 hp; box: manual or automatic. Ground clearance 199 mm.
Frame. Diesel, 146–186 hp; box: manual or automatic. Ground clearance 206–247 mm, depending on modification.
Suzuki Jimny (1)
Frame. Gasoline, 85 hp; box: manual or automatic. Clearance 190 mm.
UAZ Patriot (1)
Frame. Gasoline, 128 hp; diesel, 114 hp; mechanical box. Fording depth 500 mm; ground clearance 210 mm.
Lada 4×4 (2)
Bearing body. Gasoline, 83 hp; mechanical box. Fording depth 450 mm; ground clearance 220 mm.
Bearing body. Gasoline, 80 hp; mechanical box. Fording depth 450 mm; ground clearance 220 mm.
Suzuki Grand Vitara (2)
Bearing body. Gasoline, 140–168 hp; box: manual or automatic. Ground clearance 200 mm.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (3)
Frame. Gasoline, 163–282 hp; diesel, 173 hp; box: manual or automatic. Fording depth 700 mm; ground clearance 220 mm.
Land Rover Discovery 4 (3)
Bearing body with integrated frame. Diesel, 211 hp; automatic box. Fording depth 700 mm; ground clearance 210 mm.
Jeep Wrangler (4)
Frame. Gasoline, 286 hp; diesel, 200 hp; automatic box. Fording depth 489 mm; ground clearance 210 mm.
Mitsubishi Pajero (5)
Bearing body with integrated frame. Gasoline, 178–250 hp; diesel, 200 hp; box: manual or automatic. Fording depth 700 mm; ground clearance 225–235 mm.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (5)
Frame. Gasoline, 222 hp; diesel, 178 hp; box: manual or automatic. Ground clearance 215 mm.
Chevrolet TrailBlazer (1)
Frame. Gasoline, 239 hp; diesel, 180 hp; box: manual or automatic. Ground clearance 220 mm.
