There’s tough, and then there’s body-on-frame tough. These SUVs aren’t built to pose outside coffee shops — they’re made to haul gear, climb rocks, and tow just about anything you hook behind them. For 2026, names like Jeep, Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota are bringing big upgrades, blending the old-school strength of ladder frames with modern hybrid tech, advanced safety, and more refined interiors.
Crossovers may cover the daily grind, but they’ll never match the grit of a proper body-on-frame machine. And the formula isn’t fading anytime soon — CarBuzz once called body-on-frame construction “the gold standard for off-road cred” back in 2018, a badge of honor that still fits the new wave of SUVs coming in 2026.
Note: Based on automaker releases and reporting from CarBuzz, Car and Driver, and MotorTrend, this article previews 2026 SUVs with some 2025 images used for reference; specs and pricing reflect manufacturer roadmaps and industry analysis. We aim to give readers the clearest, most trustworthy look at what’s coming next in the body-on-frame SUV world.
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#1. 2026 Jeep Recon
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $55,000–$65,000
- Platform: Stellantis STLA Large (Body-on-Frame)
- Powertrain: Dual-motor AWD (electric)
- Top ones: Exterior options for being a true open-air SUV, improved all-wheel drive system, available Uconnect infotainment systems, and over-the-air updates
The 2026 Jeep Recon will harness electric power to bolster the brand’s storied off-road capabilities. Based on Stellantis’s STLA Large body-on-frame platform, this all-electric SUV is expected to be priced between $55,000 and $65,000 at launch. A dual-motor AWD system promises serious trail capability, while Jeep’s open-air exterior options will keep the adventure spirit alive. You can also expect the newest Uconnect infotainment system inside, as well as over-the-air updates and advanced driver-assistance features.
With its rugged appearance, enhanced all-wheel-drive system performance, and zero-emission capabilities, the Recon offers the best of both worlds: the timeless Jeep hardiness and the forward-leaning benefits of electrification.”
#2. 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $55,000–$70,000
- Platform: TNGA-F Body-on-Frame Architecture
- Powertrain: Turbo 4-cylinder + Hybrid option
- Highlights: Toyota Safety Sense, up-to-date infotainment, drive modes for off-road surfaces, robust exterior design
A price between $55,000 and $70,000 should keep the Toyota Land Cruiser competitive in the full-size SUV market. It sits on the Toyota TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, promising strength, durability, and off-road confidence. The turbo inline-4 offers the hybrid system for more efficiency without sacrificing capability. A rugged character complements this modern convenience — the Land Cruiser features Toyota Safety Sense, an updated infotainment system, and various drive modes for rough terrain.
The Land Cruiser boasts a robust, non-traditional design with a dash of interior refinement and heritage-inspired specifications, making it stand out to drivers who prioritize exceptional off-road performance and everyday comfort. The 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser scores a superb 9.5/10 from Car and Driver, which likes its unstoppable capability off-road and smooth hybrid powertrain
#3. 2026 Ford Bronco Raptor
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $80,000+
- Platform: T6 Body-on-Frame
- Powertrain: 3.0L twin-turbo V6, possible hybrid
- Key Features: Wide stance, FOX suspension, removable roof and doors
The 2026 Ford Bronco Raptor is looking like one of the most aggressive off-road SUVs on the market. Riding on the T6 body-on-frame platform, it will start somewhere north of $80,000 and come with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, possibly with a hybrid option in the pipeline somewhere. Its wide fenders make its presence known, and a removable roof and doors — along with FOX suspension tuned for the desert — make it a genuine Baja-ready machine.
Ford will be aiming for both improved suspension and reduced weight in 2026, and will update the Bronco Raptor with the brand’s most current SYNC infotainment system and driver-assist technologies. It remains in a class of its own when it comes to overall attitude and all-out trail ability and performance, and it’s this sort of no BS attitude that continues to set the standard for serious adventure SUVs.
#4. 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $60,000–$75,000
- Platform: GM T1XX Body-on-Frame
- Powertrain: 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, new hybrid
- Key Features: Super Cruise, advanced towing, updated styling
The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe is poised to carry on as one of the most competent and versatile full-size SUVs around. Based on GM’s T1XX body-on-frame platform, it’s likely to sell for somewhere between $60,000 and $75,000, and will be available with a choice of 5.3-liter V8, 6.2-liter V8, and new hybrid powertrains for better gas mileage. Chevrolet is refreshing the Tahoe both inside and out, bringing updated styling and a more sophisticated interior loaded with tech upgrades.
GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving will extend to additional trims, and newly added towing tech will make hauling barges, trailers, or Airstreams even simpler. And thanks to its family-friendly comfort, rated performance, and advanced tech, the 2026 Tahoe shines in a category that features a top pick.
#5. 2026 Lexus GX 550 Hybrid
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $70,000–$80,000
- Platform: TNGA-F Body-on-Frame
- Powertrain: Twin-turbo V6 hybrid
- Key Features: High-quality interior, Lexus Safety System+, advanced 4WD
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Hybrid is poised to redefine the luxury off-road SUV segment. Using Toyota’s TNGA-F (Toyota New Global Architecture-F) body-on-frame chassis, it fuses rugged toughness with spacious comfort. Moreover, the twin-turbo V6 hybrid under the hood should generate more low-end torque and offer better fuel efficiency as well, so it’s both robust and pragmatic at the same time. The cabin shows Lexus’s signature attention to detail, with upscale materials and top-end tech like the Lexus Safety System+ suite.
Where some rivals compromise ride quality and handling under heavy load, the GX’s advanced 4WD system keeps things steady off-road and confident on pavement. That balance of durability and refinement makes the GX 550 Hybrid one of the most versatile choices in the 2026 SUV lineup.
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#6. 2026 Nissan Patrol (Armada in U.S.)
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $65,000–$75,000
- Platform: Updated Body-on-Frame architecture
- Powertrain: Twin-turbo V6, possible hybrid
- Key Features: Avail. ProPILOT Assist, roomy cabin, towing might
The 2026 Nissan Patrol (Armada in America) should receive a significant improvement in dynamism and refinement. Instead of the old V8, the new truck should switch to a turbocharged V6, a change that may mean increased efficiency at no cost to strength, though a hybrid could make an appearance, for extra performance and economy. Under the skin, Nissan is packing in more premium features, better infotainment, and more advanced driver-assist tech, including ProPILOT Assist.
Based around a revised body-on-frame architecture, the Patrol retains its tough-as-nails character in extreme conditions yet is spacious enough for a family. When towing, durability and luxury are together in one place, it’s one of the planet’s favorites.
#7. 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $80,000+
- Platform: GM T1XX Body-on-Frame
- Powertrain: 6.2L V8, hybrid option
- Key Features: Denali elegance, Magnetic Ride Control, premium towing
The GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate stands at the top of GMC’s SUV lineup, blending rugged capability with luxe amenities. In 2026, the big news is the inclusion of a hybrid system that runs alongside the brawny 6.2L V8, providing buyers with an added degree of efficiency without sacrificing towing and hauling capability. Look for a luxurious interior that is packed with quality leather, next-gen in-car tech, and driver-aid features that are optimized for long-haul comfort.
The Yukon is still smooth but also tough, thanks to Magnetic Ride Control and a body-on-frame platform. Factor in its impressive towing capabilities, and it amounts to the ideal combination of workhorse utility and high-end refinement — an SUV that has everything.
#8. 2026 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $70,000–$80,000
- Platform: TNGA-F Body-on-Frame
- Powertrain: i-Force MAX hybrid V6
- Key Features: TRD off-road enhancements, roomy three-row interior, Toyota Safety Sense
The 2026 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is for families who insist on being both comfortable and having an adventure. Sitting on the TNGA-F platform, it uses Toyota’s i-Force MAX hybrid V6 for a mix of strong towing ability and enhanced fuel economy. It’s an authentic trail warrior thanks to skid plates, Fox shocks, and an off-road-tuned suspension with the TRD Pro trim.
Once inside, three rows of seating, available tech, and Toyota Safety Sense features help you enjoy everything the road and your vehicle have to offer. Whether you’re towing a camper or hitting the trails, the Sequoia TRD Pro balances rugged off-road capability with the everyday family functionality for your next adventure in a full-size sport utility vehicle.
#9. 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $75,000–$85,000
- Platform: Updated Ford T3 Body-on-Frame
- Powertrains: Twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, hybrid available
- Key Features: BlueCruise hands-free driving, posh cabin, best-in-class towing
The new 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum is set to set a new benchmark for Ford’s top-performing SUV. It will likely soldier on with its twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6, but could also offer that hybrid in case buyers want a little more efficiency. Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system will be extended to more trims and will help make longer drives more comfortable and safe. The Platinum adds all that, along with top-grade leathers, the best finishes and materials, and plenty of advanced infotainment features.
By combining the additional length with its impressive towing capability, abundant three-row seating, and a gentle on-road presence, the Expedition proves it can still utility with comfort. For those families looking for a full-size SUV that can get the job done without skimping on luxury, the 2026 Expedition Platinum continues to be a top contender.
#10. 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ (Extended Range)
Quick Specs (Expected):
- Price: $110,000+
- Platform: GM Ultium EV Architecture
- Powertrain: Dual-motor electric AWD
- Key Features: 400+ miles of range, 55-inch curved screen, Super Cruise
The Escalade IQ is Cadillac’s brave EV future, with an extended-range model still to come by 2026. Boasting more than 400 miles of range, GM’s Ultium battery tech, and 55 inches of display, it’s a veritable tech fortress. Factor in Super Cruise and supple appointments, and the Escalade IQ will change the game of what a full-size electric luxury SUV can be.
Conclusion
Ranging from the trail-ready Toyota Land Cruiser to the ultra-luxurious GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate, the 2026 SUV lineup unites heritage, strength, and contemporary efficiency. Hybrid and electrified options are arriving quickly, and refreshed interiors with next-gen driver-assistance technology are setting new benchmarks.
From hardcore off-roaders like the Bronco Raptor to luxury EVs like the Escalade IQ, 2026 proves that body-on-frame SUVs are evolving without losing their grit. Which one has you most excited — the hybrids, the old-school V8s, or the all-electric giants?
