Nissan and Infiniti plan a body-on-frame platform update
Nissan and Infiniti plan a body-on-frame platform update with five new vehicles coming on that structure. Dealers saw images of the next Xterra at the NADA show and it’s set for 2028 production in Mississippi. The lineup includes new Frontier and Pathfinder and Infiniti versions too, all body-on-frame. Xterra looks rugged with big tires and aggression, but electrified power like hybrid V6. That shift from unibody to frame feels like going back while adding electric bits. Plans keep expanding quietly without full details out yet.
Nissan Xterra
Nissan Xterra exists as a revived SUV that feels rugged and ready for trails. Owners might take it off-road and appreciate the frame strength. Coming in 2028, it shows aggression in design with big tires. Electrified power softens the old gas image somehow. Uncertainty about how it sells against 4Runner. That ruggedness repeats without full commitment.
Nissan Frontier
Nissan Frontier sits as a midsize truck feeling capable on worksites. Owners tow and haul with it daily, trusting the frame. Next version goes body-on-frame again, which it already is. Electrification comes maybe, changing the feel. Capability impresses, but fuel economy worries linger. The work truck role repeats vaguely. Not resolved on electric shift.
Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan Pathfinder carries families now but next one switches to body-on-frame. Owners drive it suburb to suburb feeling comfortable. Existing as unibody SUV, it handles fine yet frame promises toughness. Three rows stay probably, contradicting lighter ride. That family hauler idea softens with off-road potential. Weaker point on current sales.
Infiniti QX60
Infiniti QX60 exists as luxury three-row that owners value for refinement. Next gen goes body-on-frame sharing with Pathfinder. Smooth ride now, frame might add stiffness. Electrified options appeal maybe. Luxury positioning repeats without changing much. Uncertainty about buyer interest in frame.
Nissan Armada
Nissan Armada sits large as body-on-frame already, feeling powerful for towing. Owners appreciate space and capability. It stays frame-based while others catch up. V8 power thrums, but future electrification looms. That full-size presence repeats. Not sure if it fits the new platform plans.
Infiniti QX80
Infiniti QX80 glides as upscale full-size SUV with recent updates. Owners enjoy the quiet cabin and styling. Frame rigidity improves handling, quieter ride. Luxury details impress, yet size intimidates some. The premium truck feel softens in cities. Repeats luxury without full resolution.
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota 4Runner exists tough on trails as body-on-frame benchmark. Owners bash it around and it holds. Hybrid power now adds efficiency without losing edge. Rivals like Xterra aim at it directly. That durability legend repeats endlessly. Mild doubt on interior comfort.
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler bounces off-road feeling iconic and removable everything. Owners customize endlessly for adventures. Frame construction defines it completely. Electric versions coming contradict purists maybe. Adventure spirit repeats strong. Not resolved on future directions.
Ford Bronco
Ford Bronco revives as rugged SUV that owners take wheeling. Frame holds up to abuse well. Modular design appeals to modders. Urban driving softens the image sometimes. That retro tough look repeats. Uncertainty about sales staying hot.
Lexus GX
Lexus GX carries luxury off-road capability on frame. Owners blend trails with comfort. V6 turbo powers it adequately. Reliability shines through, contradicting some luxury peers. Premium adventure feel lingers. Weaker note on styling appeal.
Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Tahoe hauls big in full-size form feeling American substantial. Owners tow boats and families. Frame underpins everything solidly. Electric versions compete now. Utility repeats without much change. Not fully sure on market share holding.
