We can call those vehicles the old school. Modern crossovers tend to enhance on-road drive, safety, and comfort. On the other hand, a steel frame is more suitable if you plan to tow a lot or go for some off-road adventure. Carmakers are still into this business since crossovers can’t match the performances and durability of truck-based SUVs.
There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. While most carmakers are replacing ladder frames with unibody concepts, Ford brought back Bronco with old-school architecture. We can’t say the same for its ex-archrival, Chevy Blazer. It is now a crossover. Another BoF SUV will be in the market in 2024. Jeep also put the Grand Wagoneer on the ladder frame and launched it as a premium vehicle.
1. 2024 Ford Bronco and Bronco Raptor
Let’s start with the newest member of the segment. After 25 years, Ford brought back Bronco. Although the release was a bit late, the company did everything to make it worth waiting for. The 2024 Ford Bronco rides on the BoF platform, which promises durability and off-road capability. It didn’t take too long before those characteristics were maximized to fulfill the potential. The Bronco Raptor is the ultimate upgrade.
The base version is available with a 2.3-liter turbo-four engine. Although some fans were disappointed, expecting a larger displacement, a four-banger is ready to deliver 310 hp. This is more than respectable output. The 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor brings the truck-based SUVs to another level with numerous upgrades. The centerpiece is a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. The pricing starts at $31,000 and Raptor adds nearly $40k in different features.
2. 2024 Ford Expedition
The Expedition is much larger than Bronco. The full-size SUV rides on a ladder frame and the company doesn’t want to switch to other platforms. The suspension setup was different compared to Chevrolet’s big rigs. Now, GM is also deploying IRS. Meanwhile, the capabilities of the 2024 Ford Expedition are not in doubt, even with a six-cylinder engine. Some can underestimate the unit, but it can crack 400 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. Plus, the SUV was the best hauler in the segment, with a towing capacity of 9,300 pounds. Now, the No1 place is reserved for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
The base price of the full-size truck-based SUV is $51,000. You can also use a diesel engine unless bosses decide to drop it. A Powerstroke unit is a 3.0-liter displacement and delivers 260 hp and 440 lb-ft. Another option is to purchase a long-wheelbase 2024 Ford Expedition Max version with extra storage space (122 Cu. Ft with folded seats). To enhance an off-road drive, we recommend a purchase of the FX4 package.
3.2024 Lincoln Navigator
We are still in the Ford company. The carmaker also uses the same body-on-frame architecture for its premium branch and is the largest vehicle there. The 2024 Lincoln Navigator is a legendary luxury SUV with great off-road abilities. Compared to the Expedition, it is packed with premium options, such as leather seats, a smart infotainment system, additional safety features, and many more.
Under the hood, the same turbocharged engine is tuned to deliver 450 hp and 510 lb-ft. It is the same configuration we find on the Ford F-150 Raptor. So, there are not too many things to be said further. Optionally, the same turbodiesel can replace a petrol drivetrain. The SUV is still priced under $80,000 in the base form. But, upper trim levels, such as Black Label, will exceed $100k.
4. 2024 Chevy Tahoe
The 2024 Chevy Tahoe is one of the most popular truck-based SUVs on the market. It is an old-school model with a tough platform. The company recently redesigned its big rigs and improved the ride thanks to the independent rear suspension system. It replaced an old solid axle and GM is now again competitive with Ford and other carmakers producing truck-based SUVs.
Under the bonnet of the 2024 Chevy Tahoe will be a V8 engine. Buyers are choosing between 5.3 and 6.2 displacements. The first one is good for 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Top-of-the-range models can produce 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. A turbodiesel is also on offer. A 3.0-liter mill is delivering 277 hp and 460 lb-ft. A four-wheel drive is optional for all drivetrains. The Z71 is an off-road package.
5. 2024 Chevy Suburban
The 2024 Chevy Suburban is offering pretty much all the same as the Tahoe. The difference is in the wheelbase since this is the LWB model. So, if you pick Suburban over Tahoe, you are getting extra space. The LWB model is 225.7 inches long, 15 inches more than the standard version. The wheelbase is also extended by 13 inches. While Tahoe is at the same level as the Ford Expedition regarding the cargo space, the 2024 Chevy Suburban beats this truck-based SUVs all with 145 cubic feet behind the front row. Also, the price is $3,000 up compared to its little brother.
6. 2024 GMC Yukon
GMC and Chevy trucks are usually called mechanical twins. Well, engine options are carried over to the full-size truck-based SUV segment. So, there are not too many things to add about the 2024 GMC Yukon and its performance. It also offers a long-wheelbase version, Yukon XL.
Still, GMC vehicles are considered the upscale versions of the Chevy units. They offer more options. Also, two special trim levels will make a difference. Since you are purchasing the truck-based SUV, then extra equipment for off-roading is welcome. The Yukon AT4 model is one of the best 4×4 configurations in the market. On the other hand, if you want to make the ride more luxurious, then the Denali bundle comes with leather seats, HUD, and many other advanced options. Still, the price of the Yukon Denali brings the SUV to the premium segment.
7. 2024 Cadillac Escalade
Speaking of luxury SUVs, the 2024 Cadillac Escalade brings the best of the GM company. For this model, the only engine option is a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It has sense since the Escalade is offering the best of the best. A diesel engine is an alternative. The interior is nicely packed and things are becoming more interesting at higher trim levels.
The most interesting model is on the way. The 2024 Cadillac Escalade V is going to feature a supercharged version of the V8 engine. According to announcements, the V Performance team tunes the drivetrain to deliver 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. It is not the most powerful SUV in the market, but the new model will be the star of the lineup. The price of $150,000 seems to be reasonable, having in mind the level of power and features the Escalade V is going to offer.
8. 2024 Jeep Wrangler
There are not too many experts and fans thinking any other model can beat the Wrangler in the off-road drive. The build of this truck-based SUV is almost perfect. Plus, the company enhances the drive with numerous upgrades. Of course, unique shocks, all-terrain tires, and 4×4 drive. The base model is equipped with either a V6 or a turbo-four unit. Both engines are delivering similar outputs and performances.
Still, there are plenty of other upgrades for the body-on-frame SUV. Buyers can now purchase the 2024 Jeep Wrangler with the PHEV system. That is the Wrangler 4xe model. Soon, an all-electric Magneto could also be added to the lineup. For the best off-road experience, Sahara and Rubicon are the best packages. You can also use a diesel engine. For the 2024 YM, a V8 and Rubicon 392 are not confirmed yet.
9. 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer – New Truck-Based SUV
Wrangler’s big brother is finally here. For a long time, experts were wondering why FCA is not producing a full-size SUV. The company is doing great in all other segments and expansion was an obvious step. Still, fans had to wait a bit more to see the new largest SUV in the lineup. And the company didn’t disappoint us.
The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a big premium rig with plenty of options. Under the hood of the truck-based model is a 6.4-liter V8 engine with 471 horsepower. Unfortunately, the carmaker won’t go out with the most powerful configuration centered around the Hellcat engine. But, they could change their opinion since a few more models now feature a 6.2-l supercharged V8 engine. The price of the Grand Wagoneer surprised us. The MSRP will start at $90k and climb above $120,000.
10. 2024 Toyota 4Runner
Toyota is the carmaker that still trusts the ladder frame. The company is producing four different models on the BoF platform. We start with the 2024 4Runner, one of the favorite off-road SUVs, and one of the favorite truck-based SUVs on the market. Why? Probably because it is easy to be tuned for the toughest conditions. But, big changes are ahead of the new version, planned for 2024.
The new generation is being prepared. Toyota already updated the full-size segment, and now it is the turn for the 4Runner. It is about time since fans are waiting for the new generation. But, the recent updates make everyone worry about what is going to happen with the 2024 YM. In the full-size segment, a V8 engine was replaced with a turbo-six. Also, the mighty Land Cruiser is not a member of the lineup anymore. So, we can’t predict what will happen with the all-new SUV until it hits dealerships late in 2023.
11. 2024 Toyota Sequoia
Changes in big brother are easier to predict. All the full-size models are getting new configurations. An old 5.7-l V8 was a durable, reliable, and potent engine. Also thirsty and expensive to maintain. Toyota is turning to turbocharged power now and the I-Force system will replace and old setup.
A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 can deliver a similar amount of power. But, it will be way more efficient. The setup debuted on the new Tundra truck. Since the 2024 Sequoia is sharing a platform with the pickup, fans expect similar changes under the hood. It is not bad, especially if Toyota goes out with the I-Force Max as the high-end option.
12. 2024 Lexus GX 460
The 2024 Lexus GX will share its destiny with the 4Runner. It is a premium version of Toyota’s SUV. Both vehicles are out in the market for too long. Enthusiasts already expected the redesign, but now the new engine is also in the mix. After the update, the 2024 Lexus GX will come with a new price tag, significantly higher than the current MSRP. Also, the new badge is possible, as it happened with the LX.
13. 2024 Lexus LX 600
Speaking of the LX, this is going to be the SUV under the spotlight in the following seasons, not only in the truck-based segment. The Japanese company launched the all-new model with fresh styling and revisited the engine range. We already mentioned the I-Force technology and engines. For the 2024 Lexus LX 600, this unit is ready to deliver 409 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to wheels, replacing an old gearbox. The full-size SUV comes with significantly improved gas mileage. Well, when you are paying $90,000 for a ride, fuel economy is not an issue.
The 2024 Lexus LX keeps excellent off-road abilities. Plus, the company is making more room for the flagship vehicle by removing the Land Cruiser from the US market. Bosses trust in the LX, its eye-catching design, comfortable interior, powerful engine, and exceptional safety.
14. 2024 Infiniti QX80
The star of Nissan’s lineup for the next couple of seasons will be an all-new 2024 Infiniti QX80. The company is launching the next-gen series based on the Monograph concept. The SUV keeps a BoF architecture. That promises an extended lifespan for the luxury model. But, there is a lot more to be introduced with the new vehicle. Some things we know, and some are still about to be unveiled.
The release date of the new QX80 is not set yet. The Nissan-Infiniti truck-based SUVs might be available as the 2023 YM. The platform is ready and it is up to Nissan and Infiniti designers and engineers to speed up the entire process. The 2024 YM is not in doubt, even if carmakers miss delivering the body-on-frame SUV next year. We expect a big price bump from the current level. The QX80 was one of the most affordable full-size luxury SUVs, but the new pricing list will be heavily updated.
15. 2024 Nissan Armada
Again, we are repeating stories from before. Nissan owns Infiniti, and changes on the QX80 will also reflect on the Armada SUV. However, the non-premium model is not going to use so many features from the Monograph concept. Still, the carmaker will keep Armada on the ladder frame. In the past, Nissan turned Pathfinder from a truck-based model to a crossover SUV using a unibody architecture.
Another big change in the 2024 Nissan Armada might happen in the engine room. The Japanese manufacturer is about to follow recent trends and downsize the engine. A 5.6-liter V8 is very similar to Toyota’s V8. It is a powerful, durable, trusted unit for off-road rides. But also old, thirsty, and non-efficient. Nissan might turn to the V6 turbo power in the future for the truck-based SUVs..
16. 2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The G-Wagon is the most luxurious model on our list. While the full-size GLS is sharing a unibody platform with the GLE, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class still tries to close the gap between luxury and utility. Well, the safety and handling might be better, but the German company opts for the toughness. The SUV can do everything. Its iconic look is everything but modern. The boxy styling is not aesthetic. Still, it draws attention. The Interior is spacious, modern, and comfortable.
Under the hood of the truck-based SUV is a 4.0-liter V8 with 415 horsepower. The best version is the AMG G 63. The centerpiece of the upgrade is an enhanced engine, which can deliver 577 hp. Mercedes is not going to put in a hybrid system to get more power as they did with the GLS. The G-Wagon rides well on and off the road, making it also one of the most versatile BoF SUVs in the market. Still, the price is the stumbling block. The cheapest variant costs $135,000 and you need to add $30,000 for the AMG features.
17. 2024 BMW X7
It is not going to be a rival to the G-Wagon, but the 2024 BMW X7 makes a statement against the Mercedes GLS. The Bavarian carmaker entered the full-size SUV market with a new face and platform. Unlike other models, the X7 will be a truck-based SUV. It increases the toughness and off-road abilities of the luxury model. Still, the opinions are divided. Some fans like this configuration and others would prefer the unibody architecture.
The base price of the 2024 BMW X7 stays put, around $75,000. The bad thing is that the model is using a six-cylinder engine. Most buyers will rather go with the V8 and the M50i package. That is a huge $25,000 investment. But, if you want a unique drive experience, this is a smart move. The final step of tuning is the Alpina XB7 with 612 horsepower and a price tag of $150,000.
What Other Truck-Based SUVs We Might See in 2024
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 is out. But, when fans finally welcomed it, the company remove the LC from the US market. The iconic SUV will still be available in other markets, continuing the 80 years long tradition. But, buyers in the United States won’t be able to buy the new 300 Series model, with fresh styling and a more efficient engine, after so many years of waiting.
Toyota is making more room for the Lexus LX. Two truck-based SUVs were sharing mostly everything, and it wouldn’t change in 2024. Well, one thing is – Toyota Land Cruiser is out of the market. Still, enthusiasts believe it might be back very soon.
2024 Ford Excursion
The 2024 Ford Excursion would be a unique truck-based SUV on the list, mainly because it is going to share the architecture with the heavy-duty F-250 pickup. It can be the most capable, largest, and most dominant SUV on US roads. There is also an engine ready for the debut. A 7.3-liter V8 Godzilla is the perfect fit.
The major concerns are interest and sales of the heavy-duty SUV. The Excursion was already on the market 15 years ago, and the same reasons made Ford discontinue the vehicle.
