Ground clearance determines how well a vehicle can avoid undercarriage damage from road irregularities such as potholes, speed bumps, and uneven dirt tracks. India has diverse terrain, so a car with good ground clearance helps avoid costly repairs and ensures a comfortable ride.
List of best ground clearance cars
Cars with good ground clearance are designed to sail over obstacles smoothly. This makes them perfect for both busy city roads and adventurous rural explorations.
Let us help you pick a car with best ground clearance:
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Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser sets the standard with a clearance of 235mm, which makes it exceptionally capable off-road. The car is known for its rugged build and luxury features, and it navigates rough terrains with ease. Its superior engineering is backed by advanced safety features and a spacious and comfortable interior that caters to the most discerning adventurers.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 3.3-litre diesel
- Power: 304.77bhp
- Torque: 700Nm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Price: Rs. 2.1 crore (approx.)
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Force Gurkha
The Force Gurkha comes with a ground clearance of 233mm and is tailored for extreme off-road conditions. The car combines strength with durability for challenging environments. This vehicle is particularly noted for its water-wading capability and tank-like build and is ideal for tackling the toughest off-road challenges.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 2.6-litre
- Power: 138.08bhp
- Torque: 320Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Price: Rs. 16.75 lakh to Rs. 18 lakh
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Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar has a 226mm ground clearance and is designed for both adventure and utility. It is a good choice for navigating the rugged Indian landscape. The car combines classic Jeep-inspired styling with modern technology, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts.
Key specifications:
- Engines: 2.0-litre turbo petrol, 2.2-litre diesel
- Power: 117bhp to 130bhp
- Torque: 300Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
- Price: Rs. 11.35 lakh to Rs. 17.60 lakh
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Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner comes with a ground clearance of 225mm and is renowned for its reliability and comfort. The car provides a seamless drive on both city roads and off-road paths. It is equipped with advanced drive-assist technologies and a strong frame. It is built to ensure safety and stability in the most challenging conditions. This further establishes its reputation as a family-friendly and adventure-ready SUV.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 2.7-litre petrol, 2.8-litre diesel
- Power: 165bhp to 200bhp
- Torque: 245Nm to 420Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual or automatic
- Price: Rs. 33.43 lakh to Rs. 51.44 lakh
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Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The compact Maruti Suzuki Jimny offers 210mm of ground clearance. It is ideal for those who require a nimble yet capable vehicle for both city and trail use. The lightweight structure and 4x4 capability of this car make it exceptionally agile and a favourite among those looking to explore beyond urban limits. At the same time, its retro-modern design captures the essence of classic off-roaders.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.5-litre petrol
- Power: 103.56bhp
- Torque: 134Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
- Price: Rs. 12.74 lakh to Rs. 14.95 lakh
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Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
The Grand Vitara's 210-mm ground clearance balances urban comfort and off-road capabilities. It offers versatility for various driving conditions. This new iteration of the Vitara has a modern hybrid system that improves fuel efficiency without compromising performance. It is perfect for environmentally conscious drivers looking for a practical yet capable SUV.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.5-litre K15C, 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle strong hybrid
- Power: 102bhp, 114bhp
- Torque: 138Nm, 141Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
- Price: Rs. 10.99 lakh to Rs. 20.09 lakh
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Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder has a ground clearance of 210mm. It excels in urban environments and gentle off-road conditions and merges style with functionality. This SUV is particularly appealing for its hybrid engine options, providing a greener alternative without sacrificing power. This makes it a top choice for eco-conscious urbanites seeking a blend of style and efficiency.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.5-litre mild hybrid, 1.5-litre strong hybrid
- Power: 101.59bhp, 114.41bhp
- Torque: 137Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
- Price: Rs. 11.41 lakh to Rs. 20.19 lakh
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Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon features a ground clearance of 208mm, and it provides more protection against rough surfaces and potholes. This makes it a favourite for city and highway driving. Its spacious interior and modern tech features make it a comfortable and practical option for both families and tech-savvy individuals.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre turbo diesel
- Power: 118bhp, 113bhp
- Torque: 170Nm, 260Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual or automatic
- Price: Rs. 8 lakh to Rs. 15.80 lakh
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Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet has a ground clearance of 205mm. It is designed for those who look for a balance between city manoeuvrability and the ability to handle mild off-road conditions.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-diesel
- Power: 81.86bhp, 118.35bhp, 113.42bhp
- Torque: 115Nm, 172Nm, 250Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic
- Price: Rs. 8 lakh to Rs. 15.77 lakh
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Mahindra XUV300
The Mahindra XUV300 with 200mm of ground clearance offers a sporty, compact design with enough strength for everyday adventures and city driving. Notably, its top-rated safety features and dynamic handling capabilities offer an extra layer of protection for both drivers and passengers.
Key specifications:
- Engine: 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre diesel
- Power: 108.49bhp, 115.39bhp
- Torque: 200Nm, 300Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
- Price: Rs. 7.49 lakh to Rs. 14.99 lakh
Conclusion
Opting for a car with good ground clearance strategically minimises the risk of undercarriage damage, which is a common concern on challenging terrains. Additionally, buying comprehensive car insurance online provides wider coverage during unforeseen events. Car insurance helps manage expenses resulting from accidents, theft, and damages. It ensures that your investment in a high-clearance vehicle is well protected.
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