Top High Ground Clearance Cars for Best Ride in Every Terrain

Posted on: Jan 14, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Top High Ground Clearance Cars for Best Ride in Every Terrain

Ground clearance is crucial for comfort and safety while navigating uneven roads, potholes, or speed breakers. Cars with high ground clearance are popular in India, where drive terrains vary. They ensure a smoother ride and reduce the risk of underbody damage. Additionally, having car insurance can protect you in the event of any unforeseen damage to your vehicle.

What is Ground Clearance in Cars?

Ground clearance, or ride height, measures the distance between a vehicle’s lowest point and the road. Higher clearance helps handle obstacles like speed bumps, potholes, and rough terrain, making it important for off-roads or poorly maintained roads. The ideal ground clearance varies based on the vehicle type, but high-ground clearance cars are generally designed for better handling and durability on rugged surfaces.

Top Cars with High Ground Clearance

Here is a list of some of the best cars with high-ground clearance:

1. Skoda Slavia | 179mm Ground Clearance

The Skoda Slavia offers a blend of comfort, style, and practicality. This vehicle stands out in the sedan category due to its high ground clearance and reliable performance. It is designed to handle rough road conditions without compromising comfort or elegance.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.0-litre, 1.5-litre turbocharged TSI

• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 7-speed DSG

• Power: 114bhp (1.0-litre), 148bhp (1.5-litre)

• Torque: 178Nm (1.0-litre), 250Nm (1.5-litre)

• Body Style: Sedan

• Ground Clearance: 179mm

• Underbody Protection: Partial (plastic)

• Key Features: 5-star GNCAP safety rating, ventilated front seats, digital instrumentation

2. Maruti Suzuki Ignis | 180mm Ground Clearance

The Maruti Suzuki Ignis, a quirky hatchback with excellent ground clearance, remains a favourite for urban commuting. With a compact design and high clearance, it handles Indian roads well and is ideal for those who want both practicality and style.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT

• Power: 82bhp

• Torque: 113Nm

• Body Style: Hatchback

• Ground Clearance: 180mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: Auto climate control, 60:40 split seats, keyless entry/start

3. Renault Kwid | 184mm Ground Clearance

The Renault Kwid offers one of the highest ground clearances among hatchbacks, making it perfect for navigating rough terrain and city roads. Its combination of compact size and clearance ensures manoeuvrability and versatility.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT

• Power: 67bhp

• Torque: 91Nm

• Body Style: Hatchback

• Ground Clearance: 184mm

• Underbody Protection: Optional plastic engine guard

• Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen infotainment, ESP, TCS, TPMS, 279-litre boot

4. Hyundai Exter | 185mm Ground Clearance

The Hyundai Exter is a micro SUV that has quickly gained popularity for its practical design, efficient space, and impressive ground clearance. It is perfect for urban and semi-urban driving, offering a comfortable cabin and good off-road capability.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, factory-fitted CNG option

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT

• Power: 82bhp

• Torque: 114Nm

• Body Style: Micro SUV

• Ground Clearance: 185mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: Paddle shifters on AMT, 6 airbags, ESP, TPMS, rear AC vents

5. Tata Punch | 190mm Ground Clearance

Tata Punch, the micro SUV, brings style and safety together with its impressive ground clearance and excellent ride quality. It has a solid safety rating and is a top contender for those looking for a high-clearance, compact SUV.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT

• Power: 87bhp

• Torque: 115Nm

• Body Style: Micro SUV

• Ground Clearance: 190mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: 5-star GNCAP safety rating, cruise control, drive modes

6. Maruti Suzuki Fronx | 190mm Ground Clearance

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a compact crossover with great ground clearance and an attractive design. It blends the features of a hatchback and an SUV, making it a versatile choice for city and highway driving.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.0-litre turbo petrol

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT, 6-speed automatic

• Power: 88-99bhp

• Torque: 113-148Nm

• Body Style: Compact crossover

• Ground Clearance: 190mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: 9-inch touchscreen, 6 airbags, ESP, hill-hold assist, smart hybrid system

7. Nissan Magnite | 205mm Ground Clearance

This compact SUV can navigate rough roads with ease. Its budget-friendly pricing adds to its appeal. It has modern features and practical design, making it a strong contender in its segment.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.0-litre petrol

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT

• Power: 71-99bhp

• Torque: 96-160Nm

• Body Style: Compact SUV

• Ground Clearance: 205mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen infotainment, wireless Apple CarPlay, safety features like ESC and TPMS

8. Kia Sonet | 211mm Ground Clearance

The Kia Sonet is a compact crossover with a premium design and features. It offers excellent ground clearance, ensuring easy driving on rough terrains and speed breakers. It is perfect for urban driving with occasional off-road trips.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel

• Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

• Power: 82-118bhp

• Torque: 115-250Nm

• Body Style: Compact SUV

• Ground Clearance: 211mm

• Underbody Protection: No

• Key Features: 10.25-inch touchscreen, UVO-connected car technology, 6 airbags, TPMS

9. Honda Elevate | 220mm Ground Clearance

This crossover SUV combines comfort and performance with a robust 220mm ground clearance. It has a spacious cabin. It offers excellent handling and is well-suited for city and off-road conditions.

Specifications:

• Engine: 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel

• Transmission: 6-speed manual, CVT

• Power: 121bhp (petrol)

• Torque: 145Nm (petrol)

• Body Style: Crossover SUV

• Ground Clearance: 220mm

• Underbody Protection: Yes

• Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen, 5-star GNCAP safety rating, 6 airbags

10. Mahindra Thar | 226mm Ground Clearance

This iconic off-road SUV is known for its ruggedness and outstanding ground clearance. It is designed to handle the toughest terrains with ease and offers a thrilling driving experience, both on and off the road.

Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-litre petrol, 2.2-litre diesel

• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

• Power: 150bhp (petrol), 130bhp (diesel)

• Torque: 320Nm (petrol), 300Nm (diesel)

• Body Style: Off-road SUV

• Ground Clearance: 226mm

• Underbody Protection: Yes

• Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen, 4x4 drivetrain, 6 airbags, off-road tyres

Conclusion

Choosing a car with high ground clearance ensures smoother driving on rough roads and increased durability. From sedans to SUVs, the market offers a wide range of options, each with unique features and performance capabilities. When purchasing a vehicle, don’t forget to secure the right motor insurance. While third-party car insurance is the minimum legal requirement, getting a comprehensive policy will provide extensive coverage.

FAQs

1. What is the ideal ground clearance for Indian roads?

Ideal ground clearance for Indian roads is typically 180mm and above, especially for navigating speed breakers, potholes, and uneven surfaces.

2. How does ground clearance affect vehicle performance?

Higher ground clearance allows a car to handle rough terrains and obstacles better, reducing the risk of underbody damage.

3. Can I improve the ground clearance of my car?

Yes, it is possible to improve the ground clearance by opting for aftermarket modifications, although this may affect the car's warranty.

4. Do high-ground clearance cars require special car insurance?

No, high-ground clearance cars do not require specific insurance. However, it’s advisable to consider car insurance for added protection against damages caused by rough terrains.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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