Before crossovers became popular, all SUVs were built using body-on-frame construction. In simple terms, they were essentially trucks without an open cargo bed, making them highly capable for demanding tasks but lacking the refinement and smooth ride of a sedan.
In the modern automotive landscape, body-on-frame SUVs generally fall into two distinct categories: luxurious, spacious models that can accommodate up to nine passengers, or rugged off-road vehicles designed to tackle the toughest terrain.
Here are our top-rated body-on-frame SUVs for the 2025 model year.
1. Chevrolet Tahoe
8.4/10
Engine Options: 5.3L V8 Gas | 6.2L V8 Gas | 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel
Horsepower: 305-420 HP
Fuel Economy: 15/20 MPG
Base MSRP: $59,000
Chevrolet’s body-on-frame SUVs earn a top spot on our list for several compelling reasons. They are durable, versatile, and come with a range of engine choices to suit different needs.
The Chevrolet Tahoe, in particular, offers three distinct powertrains: a 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, a 6.2-liter V8 generating 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 delivering 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque.
Whether you’re navigating off-road terrain relying on the strong frame to handle high-centering on rocks and maximizing wheel articulation—or towing up to 8,400 pounds on the highway, the Tahoe stands out as a clear and capable choice.
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2. Chevrolet Suburban
8.4/10
Engine Options: 3.0L Turbo I6 Diesel | 5.3L V8 | 6.2L V8
Horsepower: 305 hp (Diesel) | 355 hp (5.3L V8) | 420 hp (6.2L V8)
Fuel Economy:15/20/17 mpg (5.3L RWD) | 15/19/16 mpg (6.2L V8 RWD)
The Chevrolet Suburban shares similar engine specifications and towing capabilities with the Tahoe. Depending on the trim level, buyers can opt for a 5.3L V8, a 6.2L V8, or a 3.0L turbo diesel, all delivering the same power outputs as in the Tahoe.
However, the key difference lies in its size measuring 226 inches in total length, the Suburban is 15 inches longer.
While maneuvering a full-size SUV on tight off-road trails can be tricky, the Suburban makes up for it with an impressive towing capacity of up to 8,200 pounds, ensuring you can haul gear and bring the entire family along for those weekend lake getaways.
3. Toyota Sequoia
8.0/10
Engine: 3.4L V6 Hybrid
Horsepower: 437 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Fuel Economy: 21/24 MPG
Base MSRP: $62,425
Toyota also makes multiple appearances on this list, starting with its body-on-frame SUV that caters to larger families the Toyota Sequoia.
This full-size SUV is designed to compete with the Chevrolet models mentioned earlier. With seating for up to eight passengers and a towing capacity of up to 9,520 pounds, it stands out in its class.
The added towing capability comes from its robust 3.4-liter V6 hybrid powertrain, which delivers 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.
As previously noted, maneuvering such a large vehicle through tight off-road trails can be a challenge, but for those willing to take on the adventure, Toyota offers a TRD Pro variant.
This specialized model comes equipped with features such as an aluminum front skid plate, multi-terrain select, crawl control, and downhill assist control to enhance off-road capability.
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4. Toyota Land Cruiser
Horsepower: 326 hp
Base MSRP: $56,450
Base Trim Engine:2.4L Turbo Hybrid
Base Trim Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined): 22/25/23 MPG
The latest addition to Toyota’s lineup is the new Land Cruiser. Now more compact than the previous model sold in the U.S., this version balances versatility, efficiency, and comfort both on and off the road.
Powering both trim levels is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
While this falls short of the Sequoia’s hybrid V6, it still provides more than enough capability to venture deep into rugged terrain.
Additionally, it boasts significantly improved fuel efficiency over its predecessors, with EPA estimates of 22/25/23 mpg.
5. Toyota 4Runner
Horsepower: 278-326 hp
Engine: 2.4L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid
Drivetrain: 4WD
Toyota has finally introduced a new generation of the 4Runner in the U.S., and it remains one of the most capable body-on-frame SUVs available.
Since its debut, the 4Runner has consistently been a fan favorite. The latest model offers an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, producing 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
Understanding its dedicated off-road audience, Toyota has also introduced an all-new trim this year the Trailhunter.
This rugged variant comes packed with off-road enhancements, including a snorkel, 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires, rock rails, high-strength steel skid plates, and more, ensuring it can tackle even the most demanding trails.
6. Nissan Armada
Base Trim Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 425 HP @ 5,600 RPM
Base MSRP: $56,980
The Nissan Armada is often overlooked, but it remains a solid contender in the full-size SUV segment, competing with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Toyota Sequoia.
While the previous model featured a powerful V8, the 2025 Armada still delivers impressive performance thanks to its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
This new generation also brings a modernized experience, offering an available 14.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For those looking for a touch of luxury, the Platinum trim level enhances comfort with quilted leather upholstery and massaging seats.
7. Ford Expedition
Base Trim Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6
Base Trim Horsepower: 400 hp
Base MSRP: $61,700
The 2025 Ford Expedition is a powerful full-size SUV that serves as a strong competitor to the Chevrolet Tahoe. It is available in four trim levels: Active, Tremor, King Ranch, and Platinum.
The base model, Active, starts at $61,700 and comes equipped with several practical and convenient features. Under the hood, the Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
Not only does this provide impressive acceleration, but it also allows the SUV to tow up to 9,600 pounds.
In terms of convenience, the Expedition boasts a large 24-inch digital display, accommodates up to eight passengers, and features three-zone climate control for added comfort.
8. Cadillac Escalade
Base Trim Engine: 6.2L V8
Base Trim Horsepower: 420 hp
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade remains a top competitor in the luxury SUV segment, going up against the Lincoln Navigator and Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
While it’s not the kind of body-on-frame SUV most owners will take off-road, it still offers plenty of practicality, with seating for up to eight passengers and a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds in rear-wheel-drive models.
Powering the Escalade is a 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque the same engine found in the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, and various other GM models.
However, what sets the Escalade apart is its superior luxury. Rear passengers can enjoy mounted tablets, a ten-point massaging system, and 16-way adjustable seats. Notably, the 2025 Escalade has received a significant price increase for this model year.
9. Cadillac Escalade-V
Base Trim Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
Base Trim Horsepower: 682 hp
Base MSRP: $159,995
For those who find the standard Escalade lacking in power, Cadillac offers the high-performance Escalade-V.
This version is equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 that delivers an impressive 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque enough to propel this massive SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
With that added power and even more premium features, the Escalade-V comes with a starting price of $159,995. However, very few SUVs can match its blend of space, luxury, and performance.
Every Escalade-V also features a stunning 55-inch curved, pillar-to-pillar digital display, which integrates the driver’s gauge cluster along with numerous apps and infotainment options for passengers.
10. Lincoln Navigator
Base Trim Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas
Base Trim Horsepower: 440 hp
Base Trim Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
With a starting price of $99,995, the Lincoln Navigator is a luxury SUV that makes a bold statement. As a direct competitor to the Cadillac Escalade, it offers high-end features and powerful performance, though it lacks a high-performance variant to rival the Escalade-V.
Under the hood, the Navigator is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to tow up to 8,700 pounds.
It comes equipped with four-wheel drive as standard, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
Additionally, the Navigator boasts an impressive 48-inch panoramic digital display, seamlessly integrating the gauge cluster and infotainment system for a premium driving experience.