When it comes to auto shopping, if you're well-versed in everything automotive, then you've probably heard of "body on frame" and "unibody". In this case, they refer to the structure of the vehicle as well as the way the chassis and frame are constructed. While most cars, minivans, and SUVs are unibody construction, a lot of trucks and off-road-ready SUVs are constructed in a body on frame configuration (like the Orlando Toyota 4Runner). Here are the pros and cons of body-on-frame vs unibody and which is better for your driving.
Most vehicles today use unibody frame construction in their designs. In this configuration, the chassis and the frame of the car are made as one single unit rather than two separate pieces. It’s easier to find this type of vehicle, and it’s also usually cheaper (as you’ll find it on sedans, hatchbacks, and cros
covers – trucks and off-road SUVs can tend to cost a bit more). However, there are pros and cons to unibody frame vehicles.
The Pros and Cons to Unibody and Body Frames
Unibody Vehicles
Pros:
Improved fuel efficiency. Cars with unibody frames tend to be lighter in construction than those with body on frames, which means they get better fuel economy right off the bat. Orlando Toyota crossovers and SUVs use this type of frame construction for this reason.
Enhanced performance. Orando Toyotas with unibody frame construction are typically faster and more comfortable than those with body on frame construction.
Safer. A vehicle with a unibody frame also offers a high level of safety when it comes down to specs in the Orlando Toyota. This type of Orlando Toyota makes it easier to integrate advanced safety features such as crumple zones which makes an a safer driving experience for all passengers or the vehicle.
Cons:
Not off-road-ready. You may not want to use a unibody frame if you like to go off the beaten path. All-wheel drive and paved roads make these vehicles ideal for slippery conditions.
Repairing is more expensive. After an accident or collision, unibody frame vehicles are typically more expensive to repair. As a result of everything being one unit, it tends to be affected by damage throughout the whole car. As a result, it may require extensive rebuilding and replacement of parts to restore the car to like-new condition.
Body On Frame Cars
Vehicles with body-on-frames are less common than vehicles with unibody frames. It is most common on off-road-oriented trucks and SUVs. In this setup, the chassis is a separate unit from the frame and is attached to the frame during the manufacturing of the vehicle. Here are the pros and cons.
Pros:
Manufacturing is cheaper. Due to their simpler, two-piece design, body on frame vehicles typically cost less to manufacture. A single chassis and single frame can be used on multiple models across the make (multi-purpose), whereas in a unibody frame vehicle, the unit usually can’t be reused for other models.
Off-roading is better. There is a reason why so many trucks and off-road SUVs, like the Orlando Toyota 4Runner, are built this way. The body-on-frame construction of the vehicle allows for a greater amount of "flex," which allows the car to handle. This is seen uneven during terrain where the vehicle is actually not damaging itself. Since the frame and chassis are not one unit, there is less chance of the frame warping than in a unibody frame car.
Payload and towing capacity are increased. Due to their flexibility, these trucks are better suited for towing and hauling than unibody frames, which is why they are so popular.
Easier to repair. Because unibody vehicles are one unit, the damage tends to radiate, so they are harder and more expensive to repair. On the other hand, body-on-frame vehicles are more flexible and can be easily repaired (instead of having to replace the entire body).
Cons:
Heavier. Due to their weight, body-on-frame vehicles can be slower and are less fuel efficient than unibody frames.
Not as safe. Unibody vehicles have an easier time integrating safety features. It is not a bad idea to buy a body-on-frame Orlando Toyota if you value advanced safety technology and design.
Less comfortable. These types of Orlando Toyotas tend to be less comfortable inside the cabin due to their construction. All of that edge and ruggedness does come at a bit of a cost. Additionally, they don’t handle as well as unibody frame vehicles and have a higher chance of rollovers because they usually have a higher center of gravity.
Let Toyota of Orlando help you find the Toyota that's right for you
Are you still unsure about the differences between unibody frames and body on frames? Toyota of Orlando has both answers, and we'll show you both. Come see usat Toyota of Orlando in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also see all of our inventory online or call to schedule your test drive at (407) 298-4500.