12 SUVs With the Highest Ground Clearance

In the SUV world, ground clearance is a key factor. Ground clearance is the distance between the ground and the lowest part of the car, and it makes navigation on rocky trails easier and safer. That’s why many car manufacturers are striving to create SUVs with the highest ground clearance for their adventure-loving customers.

We’ve looked into the current full-size SUV market to find the models for tough terrains and with great visibility. Check out the top 12 SUVs here. Please know that at Carplus, we’re here to make your SUV buying experience smooth and enjoyable. Enjoy favourable terms and great deals for SUVs.

1. Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a full-size off-roader with rugged capabilities. It features a body-on-frame construction typical of old-school trucks, so it’s well-suited for any adventure.

It’s also equipped with hill descent control, an electronic locking rear axle, and knobby tyres. The 4Runner features good ground clearance and soft suspension.

Its steering may not offer precision, but it’s suitable for navigating trails and urban areas. The SUV feels a bit dated compared to newer models, but the performance remains competitive.

2. Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition features a body-on-frame construction and all-wheel drive, so you can confidently take it on off-road adventures. The SUV also offers an available air suspension for a comfortable ride, although its steering lacks precision.

Lately, every Expedition model has been powered by a twin-turbo V-6 engine with ample power. As if 10.6 inches of ground clearance weren’t enough for an SUV, the car has a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system for safety and convenience.

3. GMC Sierra 1500 AT4

The GMC Sierra 1500 has a wide range of powertrain options, including a base turbocharged four-cylinder, a robust Duramax diesel, a 5.3-litre V-8, and a 6.2-litre V-8. It comes with rear- or four-wheel-drive and two different transmissions. The rugged AT4’s clearance is 10.9 inches with the available air suspension of another 2 inches.

Despite the size, the Sierra 1500 SUVs are quick thanks to its 10-speed transmission. The truck delivers good performance, although some find the brake pedal lacking for smooth stops.

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep is known for its expertise in SUVs, and the Grand Cherokee is another proof. It mainly runs on a V-6 engine, but you can also opt for the plug-in hybrid 4xe system.

The adjustable air suspension allows for up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. Safety-wise, the Grand Cherokees offer pretty advanced tech in the Overland and Summit reserve trims.

For added traction, the Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system steps in with a two-speed transfer case and multiple driving modes.

5. Range Rover Sport – 11.1 Inches

The Range Rover Sport combines comfort and luxury with impressive athleticism and good ground clearance. While it’s much of a sports car as its name suggests, except for the performance-oriented Range Rover Sport SV model, the SUV is still very competent.

Thanks to its adaptive air suspension and advanced technology, these SUVs handle corners well despite the size. It also enhances off-road ride height (which is 11.1 inches of clearance), and it’s supported by Land Rover’s solid all-wheel-drive system.

6. Land Rover Discovery

The Land Rover Discovery is a top-notch off-roading vehicle with enough space for the whole family. The standout features are exceptional all-terrain capabilities, thanks to a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, 11.1 inches of clearance, and a flexible air suspension system.

You can choose between a 296-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 355-hp turbocharged inline-six. While these SUVs perform adequately, it’s not groundbreaking. With plenty of room in five-seat mode, the Discovery is perfect for carrying camping gear or nine carry-on suitcases.

7. Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender is available in two-door and four-door (or three and five, if you will). The Defender 90 is the smaller version with two doors, the Defender 110 has four doors and two rows of seats, and the Defender 130 is the largest with three rows of seats.

All Defenders come with coil springs, unibody chassis, four-wheel drive, locking differentials, and independent suspension. On the low end, the SUV has 8.6 inches of ground clearance; on the upper end, it’s 11.5 inches from the ground.

8. Land Rover Range Rover

The Range Rover has been a top choice for celebrities and the wealthy for its off-trail agility and high-end design. Unlike the Defender, this luxury SUV is a modern mansion on wheels, with plenty of space and high-tech features.

You can choose from various engines, including a powerful V8 petrol, 3.0-litre petrol and diesel options, and plug-in hybrid SUVs. The latest EV introduces quiet electric propulsion to the manufacturer’s flagship series. Clearance for this SUV is as much as 11.6 inches.

9. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler comes exclusively with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. These off-roaders offer two selectable four-wheel-drive modes activated by a robust lever. Also, these SUVs allow you to remove the roof and doors.

There are eight trim levels available, including Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, High Altitude, Rubicon X, and Rubicon 392. Among these, the 392 is the pinnacle SUV with good ground clearance. The Xtreme Recon package, specifically, is the most capable.

10. Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco comes with a standard 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine. Optionally, a turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine is also available for more power.

Air springs and lift kits aren’t common for an SUV’s suspension, but a special air suspension kit offers unique capabilities. The off-road-focused Ford Bronco Raptor features 440 lb-ft of torque, 13.1 inches of clearance, 17-inch wheels with 37-inch all-terrain tyres, a heavy-duty rear axle, and Fox shock absorbers. The Bronco Raptor also has an obvious body-on-frame construction.

11. Mercedes G63 AMG

The Mercedes G63 AMG is AMG’s upgraded version of a G-Class SUV. It features improved off-road capabilities with enhanced wheel articulation, new all-terrain driving modes, and 13.8 inches of ground clearance. Some key highlights include the vehicle’s distinctive boxy styling, luxurious interior, and powerful twin-turbo V-8 engine.

This high-performance SUV tackles both drag strips and rugged mountain trails with ease. The only downside might be its high six-figure price tag when new, but these SUVs become more reasonable in the used car market.

12. Rivian R1S

The Rivian R1S comes with a standard dual-motor setup, a combined 600 horsepower, and an all-wheel drive. There’s also an available quad-motor powertrain option with 835bhp.

All R1S vehicles feature an adjustable air suspension system with 7 inches of vertical travel — from as low as 7.9 inches to as high as 14.9 inches, which is the highest ground clearance out there. Unfortunately, this is one of the least efficient EVs. But its performance figures are still decent for its size in any guise.

Final Words

SUVs with plenty of ground clearance are a deciding factor for better off-road performance, visibility, and protection on regular roads. However, these cars might not be suitable for everyone, especially with the narrow streets in the UK. But for those who do need these imposing SUVs, this list is quite handy.