6 Car Brands Bringing Back The Body-On Frame SUV

Key Points:

• The SUV market is divided mainly between car-based unibody crossovers, known for better fuel economy and on-road comfort, and truck-like body-on-frame SUVs, which excel in off-road capability and towing.
• Toyota continues to strengthen its body-on-frame lineup with the new Land Cruiser FJ, a smaller, retro-styled, and affordable model available overseas, appealing to off-road enthusiasts despite not being sold in the U.S.
• Hyundai is entering the body-on-frame SUV segment with its upcoming Boulder concept and a new platform built in America, aiming to compete with established 4x4s like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler by 2030.
• General Motors is reportedly reviving plans for a rugged mid-sized body-on-frame SUV, the GMC Jimmy, to compete in the off-road segment, potentially alongside a Chevrolet counterpart, after previously shelving the project for EV development.
• Nissan plans to launch five American-built body-on-frame SUVs, including a new Pathfinder and a confirmed Xterra revival in late 2028, while Mitsubishi aims to reintroduce the legendary Pajero as a rugged body-on-frame SUV in 2026, potentially revitalizing its U.S. presence.