Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of a vehicle’s undercarriage (excluding the wheels and tires) and the ground. Proper ground clearance helps a vehicle navigate different terrains while maintaining handling and stability.
A higher ground clearance is essential for off-roading fun, while a nose-to-the-road clearance provides the substantive aerodynamics hypercars need to travel at 200mph. With the correct ground clearance, SUVs, trucks, and off-road vehicles can thrive on oversized loads and obstacles such as rocks and rivers. Sedans and sports cars benefit because of a correct center of gravity, improving performance and handling.
How Is Ground Clearance Measured?
Ground clearance is measured by placing the vehicle on a flat, level surface and measuring the distance from the lowest point of the undercarriage to the ground. This lowest point can vary depending on the vehicle - it could be part of the suspension, the axle, the rocker panel, or even the differential housing. A tape measure or ruler is typically used to take this measurement accurately.
Competitive off-roading, road and track racing, and construction industries all depend on precise ground clearance measurements.
- Competitive off-roading, trail riding, and four-wheeling fun involve dirt roads and hilly terrain. Typically, Jeeps, trucks, and certain SUVs should have at least an inch of clearance and, depending on terrain, 10 inches or more. Challenging terrain, such as rock climbing, would require at least 11 inches of clearance from the differential housing.
- Sedans and hatchbacks generally have better fuel efficiency and handling characteristics due to how far they are from the ground. Optimal ground clearance for the modern sedan is 5 to 7 inches, with hatchbacks a tad lower. Engine location and the type of suspension influence the measurement.
- SUVs and crossovers are a unique group due to their range of ground clearance. Some models start at 7.5 to 9 inches and go up depending on the terrain, load, and dry weight.
So, what is a “good” ground clearance on a vehicle? Several factors influence the measurement, such as suspension, tire inflation, differential, and axle configuration. Automotive manufacturers employ teams of engineers targeting the perfect ride height for their model. For all cars, the safe average is 6.3 to 6.7 inches, SUVs 7.5 to 8.7 inches, and off-roaders 8 to 12 inches.
What Is The Highest Ground Clearance Car?
The highest measurements go to the Mercedes G Wagon with a 13.8-inch clearance, and the Rivian R1S features a 14.9-inch ground clearance. However, for those who do not want to pay six figures to take them grocery shopping, they have additional, more practical choices.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon: Features a healthy clearance from 10.3 inches up to 12.9 inches for the Xtreme 35 package. The Hybrid Wrangler offers more room at 10.8 inches. The Rivian Adventure R1S is not seen as an off-road model, and the company continues to battle financial problems. The Rubicon Xtreme features massive 35-inch tires with a 47.4-degree approach angle.
Ford Bronco Raptor: It is an exciting American product that consumers cannot get enough of. Enormous 37-inch BF Goodrich tires give the Bronco a stellar 13.1-inch ground clearance. Add in a twin-turbocharged V6 at 418 hp, and you have one of the best, most distinctive SUVs on the market.
Toyota 4Runner: A 9.6-inch clearance gives the 4Runner its distinguishing good looks. Forever in high demand, the 4Runner always provides long-term resale value. For example, the 2022 Toyota product depreciated a total of 19% over three years and less than 10% in two years.
Ford F - 150s: Standard F-150s have about 9.4 inches of clearance, depending on tire size and suspension. Choose the Raptor model and its 37-inch tires, interior space, and the F-150 adds another 1.1 inch of clearance. The F-150's awesome good looks and versatility make this truck the perfect family vehicle.
Land Rover Defender: It boasts an 11.5-inch clearance and is loaded with options and model configurations. The company has been doing business worldwide since 1948. The Defender is a durable and powerful off-roader with a solid design. Land Rover variants 90, 110, and 130 provide additional ground clearance at the touch of a button.
Ground clearance determines a vehicle’s ability to clear road objects while maintaining its reliability and stability characteristics. Consider this vital feature when choosing your car or truck.
