When navigating rough terrain or driving through uneven city roads, ground clearance becomes a crucial factor to consider in a vehicle. Ground clearance, also known as ride height, is the distance between the lowest part of the vehicle’s underbody and the ground. This blog explores the top 10 cars with the highest ground clearance in India and which car has the highest ground clearance, focusing on various models, their prices, mileage details, and other significant features.
A higher ground clearance is essential for off-roading, driving on uneven surfaces, or dealing with obstacles like speed bumps and potholes. In such situations, a car with low ground clearance will scrape against the ground, which will cause immense strain and damage to its underbody and engine components.
Importance of Ground Clearance
Ground clearance plays a significant role in a vehicle’s performance, especially in countries with varying road conditions. Here’s why ground clearance matters:
- Off-Roading Capability: Vehicles with high ground clearance can easily navigate rough terrain without damaging the underbody.
- Avoiding Obstacles: Speed bumps, potholes, and road debris are less likely to damage a car with a higher ground clearance.
- Better Visibility: A higher ride height provides a commanding view of the road, which can improve driving confidence and safety.
- Versatility: Cars with higher ground clearance are more versatile and can handle a wider range of driving conditions.
Which Car Has the Highest Ground Clearance in India?
Earlier, the Mahindra Alturas G4 was the car with the highest ground clearance in India. However, this car has now been discontinued. So, would you like to know which car has the highest ground clearance in India today? Below is a detailed list of the highest ground clearance SUVs in India, including their prices and mileage details.
Land Rover Defender OCTA
Price: Starting at ₹ 2.65 crore
The Land Rover Defender OCTA is an all-terrain champion, combining modern technology with classic ruggedness. It’s built to withstand the harshest conditions while offering a comfortable ride. The OCTA is the Defender’s fastest and most powerful version yet and one of the highest ground clearance cars in India.
- Ground Clearance: 319 mm
- Key Features: Dynamic Stability, Control Body and Soul audio technology, Clear-Sight Ground View6D Dynamics semi-active suspension.
With its 6D Dynamics semi-active suspension, the Land Rover Defender OCTA can achieve a maximum ground clearance of 391 mm, making it one of the highest in the market. It’s an excellent option for those who need a reliable and capable vehicle for both city driving and off-road adventures.
The Defender OCTA is Land Rover’s most recent launch in India. If you were wondering which car has the highest ground clearance in India today, it is likely that it is the OCTA.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Price: ₹ 2.55 crore- ₹4 crore
The G-Class has been a favorite among SUV enthusiasts due to its extreme off-road capabilities and celebrity status. This 4×4 was built for adventuring and off-roading, and you’ll find it extremely capable and luxurious at the same time. Oh, and expensive too. Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, and Ranbir Singh are some of the most elite owners of the G-Wagon in India.
- Ground Clearance: 238 to 241 mm
- Mileage: 6.1 km/l to 9.3 km/l
- Key Features: Active Lane Keeping Assistance, Nappa Leather Upholstery, Sliding Sunroof,700 mm water-wading depth.
The Mercedes-Benz G Wagon is ideal for those who want an SUV that offers a high ground clearance, unmatched off-road ability, luxury, and the status of a luxury brand.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Price: Starting at ₹ 71.65 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is an iconic off-roader with one of the highest ground clearances available in the market. Designed for the toughest terrain, the Rubicon is perfect for off-road enthusiasts.
- Ground Clearance: 237 mm
- Mileage: 10.6 km/l
- Key Features: 4×4 drivetrain, Removable roof and doors, Rock rails, Dana 44 Axles with Tru-Lok differential.
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, with its impressive ground clearance, allows drivers to conquer almost any obstacle on the road. Its powerful engine and robust design make it an ideal choice for those seeking adventure.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Price: Starting at ₹ 2.10 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Toyota Land Cruiser is synonymous with luxury and off-road prowess. Known for its durability and reliability, the Land Cruiser is equipped to handle extreme conditions.
- Ground Clearance: 230 mm
- Mileage: 9-11 km/l
- Key Features: Crawl Control, Adaptive Variable Suspension, Multi-Terrain Monitor, 4WD System.
The Toyota Land Cruiser offers a perfect blend of luxury and off-road capability, making it a preferred choice for those who don’t want to compromise on comfort while exploring rugged landscapes.
Citroen C5 Aircross
Price: ₹36.91-₹37.67 lakh (ex-showroom)
The facelifted Citroen C5 Aircross gets updated external styling, updated features, and more comfortable upholstery. This SUV offers plush ride quality with a focus on top-notch comfort, along with great boot space and spacious interiors.
- Ground Clearance: 230 mm
- Mileage: 18 km/l
- Key Features: Citroen Advanced Comfort Suspension With Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, Pollen Filter + Activated Carbon Filter + Active Odor Filter, Panoramic Sunroof, Acoustic Laminated Front Windows & Windscreen.
The Citroen C5 Aircross offers a luxurious and practical solution for those looking for a vehicle with a high ground clearance that can easily take on Indian streets.
Mahindra Thar
Price: 11.35 lakh – ₹17.60 lakh (ex-showroom)
The Mahindra Thar is a legendary Indian SUV, especially popular among off-road enthusiasts. Its rugged build and high ground clearance make it an excellent choice for adventure seekers. If you like the Thar but need space for more than two, check out the Thar Roxx.
- Ground Clearance: 226 mm
- Mileage: 15.2 km/l
- Key Features: 4×4 Drivetrain, Mechanical Locking Differential, Convertible Top Option, Off-Roading Features.
The Mahindra Thar is not just a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle statement for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Its high ground clearance ensures it can tackle challenging terrain with ease.
Also read: Mahindra Thar Special Edition
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
Price: Starting at ₹ 21.20 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is a tough and reliable pickup truck designed for both work and play. It’s known for its durability, especially in challenging terrain.
- Ground Clearance: 225 mm
- Mileage: 12.4 km/l
- Key Features: 4WD Shift-on-Fly, High-Strength Chassis, Hill Descent Control, Rear Differential Lock.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is perfect for those who need a vehicle that can handle tough jobs while offering high ground clearance for off-road adventures.
Toyota Fortuner
Price: Starting at ₹ 33.43 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Toyota Fortuner is one of the most popular SUVs in India, known for its imposing presence and off-road capabilities. It’s a preferred choice for those looking for a reliable and rugged SUV.
- Ground Clearance: 225 mm
- Mileage: 10 km/l
- Key Features: 4×4 Drivetrain, Traction Control, Downhill Assistance Control,Variable Flow Control Power Steering.
The Toyota Fortuner’s high ground clearance and powerful engine make it a top contender for those who need a vehicle that can handle tough terrain without compromising on luxury.
Tata Safari
Price: Starting at ₹ 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Tata Safari is a flagship SUV from Tata Motors, combining modern design with a strong off-road capability. It’s a versatile vehicle, well-suited for both urban and rural environments.
- Ground Clearance: 205 mm
- Mileage: 14.5 km/l to 16.3 km/l
- Key Features: Multi-Drive Modes, Terrain Response Modes, Advanced ESP with 14 functionalities Hill Descent Control.
The Tata Safari’s ground clearance, coupled with its advanced features, make it a practical choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle both city commutes and weekend adventures.
Skoda Kodiaq
The Skoda Kodiaq is a premium SUV that offers a blend of luxury, space, and off-road capability. It’s a great option for those looking for a well-rounded SUV with decent ground clearance.
- Ground Clearance: 192 mm
- Mileage: 13.32 km/l
- Key Features: Dynamic Chassis Control, 4×4 Drivetrain, Adaptive Cruise Control Park Assist.
The Skoda Kodiaq may not have the highest ground clearance in this list, but it offers a good balance of luxury and off-road capability, which makes it suitable for a wide range of driving conditions.
Which Car Has the Highest Ground Clearance in the World?
So, these are some of the highest ground clearance cars in India. But would you like to know which car has the highest ground clearance in the world?
At 14.9 inches, the Rivian R1S is the car with the highest ground clearance in the world. With a ground clearance of 13.8 inches, the Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4 Squared follows close behind.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the ideal ground clearance for an SUV?
The ideal ground clearance for an SUV depends on its intended use. For off-roading, ground clearance of at least 220 mm is recommended, while 180-200 mm is sufficient for urban use.
Does higher ground clearance affect the vehicle’s stability?
Vehicles with high ground clearance have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to body roll. So higher ground clearance can affect a car’s stability, especially during high-speed cornering.
Are vehicles with higher ground clearance unsafe?
No, most modern SUVs are equipped with advanced stability control systems and safety features to mitigate issues caused by higher ground clearance.
Is ground clearance the same across all models of a car?
No, ground clearance can vary depending on the body type as well as the specific make and model of the car.
What are some good off-road SUVs with high ground clearance?
The Mahindra Thar, Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, and Land Rover Defender are some good off-road SUVs with high ground clearance.
