Ground clearance is a crucial factor in determining an SUV’s off-road capabilities and versatility. For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, a higher ground clearance ensures a smooth experience on rugged terrains, preventing obstacles from damaging the vehicle’s undercarriage.
Automakers constantly strive to improve this aspect, leading to a competitive market of high-clearance SUVs. While trucks also offer off-road proficiency, this article focuses exclusively on the highest stock ground clearance SUVs available today.
By analyzing key models, we aim to highlight vehicles that excel in both everyday practicality and extreme off-road conditions.
1. Ford Expedition Timberline – 10.6 Inches
The Ford Expedition Timberline is a formidable family adventure SUV, boasting 10.6 inches of ground clearance. Powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, this vehicle balances power with practicality.
Its 10-speed automatic gearbox ensures smooth transitions between gears, making it ideal for both highway cruising and off-road adventures.
A 23.3-gallon fuel tank extends its range beyond paved roads, while its ability to tow over 6,000 lbs adds to its utility. With seating for eight, the Expedition Timberline is as suitable for family trips as it is for outdoor excursions.
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk – 10.9 Inches
Jeep’s Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, with 10.9 inches of ground clearance, is tailored for off-road mastery. Featuring a two-speed transfer case, an adjustable air suspension system, and a hybrid four-cylinder engine producing 375 horsepower, it seamlessly combines luxury with rugged capability.
An eight-speed automatic transmission ensures efficiency, while features such as hill descent control and a sway bar disconnect enhance its terrain-conquering abilities.
Despite leaning towards luxury, the Trailhawk remains a highly competent off-road performer, making it a well-rounded option for those who desire a mix of comfort and capability.
3. Land Rover Discovery – 11.1 Inches
Blending practicality with rugged prowess, the Land Rover Discovery offers 11.1 inches of ground clearance. As a seven-seater, it accommodates families while delivering formidable off-road capabilities.
It starts with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 296 horsepower, but a 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid variant with 355 horsepower is also available. Equipped with 4WD and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Discovery is optimized for tackling challenging trails.
Its adjustable air suspension further enhances adaptability, lowering for improved aerodynamics on highways and rising to maximize clearance when needed off-road.
4. Land Rover Range Rover Sport – 11.1 Inches
The Range Rover Sport combines luxury with serious off-road capabilities, offering 11.1 inches of ground clearance. Unlike many luxury crossovers, this SUV retains robust off-road features such as a low-range transfer case and advanced terrain control technologies.
Available with inline-six and BMW-sourced V8 engines, the Range Rover Sport balances performance and refinement. While its price nears six figures, it delivers unparalleled versatility in the midsize luxury SUV segment.
Its sophisticated suspension system allows it to transition seamlessly from city streets to rugged trails, proving that high-end luxury and off-road competence can coexist.
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5. Land Rover Defender – 11.5 Inches
The Land Rover Defender redefines modern off-roading with 11.5 inches of clearance in its air suspension’s highest setting. Unlike traditional body-on-frame off-roaders, the Defender utilizes a unibody design yet remains as capable as its ladder-frame competitors.
Featuring a two-speed transfer case, locking rear and center differentials, and a range of engine choices—including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a mild-hybrid inline-six, and a supercharged V8—the Defender caters to various needs.
Available in three different wheelbases (90, 110, and 130), it provides seating flexibility without compromising its legendary off-road prowess.
6. Land Rover Range Rover – 11.6 Inches
The flagship Range Rover offers 11.6 inches of ground clearance when its air suspension is fully extended. While it prioritizes luxury, it does not sacrifice off-road ability.
Featuring a two-speed transfer case, a 4WD system, and electronic terrain management, the Range Rover tackles obstacles with ease. It starts at $107,400 with a base 394-horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six engine, but hybrid and V8 options provide additional power.
Combining supreme comfort with off-road capability, the Range Rover remains a top choice for those seeking adventure without compromising on refinement.
7. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – 12.9 Inches
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, an off-road icon, boasts 12.9 inches of clearance, making it one of the most capable SUVs available. It comes in two-door and four-door configurations, with 4WD, locking differentials, and a dual-range transfer case ensuring supreme traction.
Although the V8-powered Rubicon 392 is slightly lower at 11.1 inches, standard Rubicon trims maintain impressive height.
For extreme adventurers, an AEV Level II Package offers a factory-installed two-inch lift and 37-inch tires, pushing ground clearance to 14.2 inches, though this is not standard. The Rubicon remains a leader in dedicated off-road performance.
8. Ford Bronco Raptor – 13.1 Inches
Challenging the Wrangler’s dominance, the Ford Bronco Raptor stands out with 13.1 inches of clearance. It features FOX shocks, HOSS suspension, and 37-inch all-terrain tires for high-speed desert driving and technical rock crawling.
A turbocharged V6 engine delivering 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque ensures power on demand, while the GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) drive modes enhance adaptability.
With superior off-road suspension and aggressive styling, the Bronco Raptor is designed for those who demand top-tier off-road performance while still enjoying modern technology and comfort.
9. Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4 Squared – 13.8 Inches
With an impressive 13.8 inches of ground clearance, the Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4² takes luxury off-roading to an extreme level. Featuring portal axles and oversized tires, it surpasses the standard G-Class’s 9.5-inch clearance by over four inches.
Its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine produces 585 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission and multiple locking differentials.
At $349,000, it is among the most expensive SUVs, but its off-road competence remains unmatched. Designed for those who seek extravagance with extreme capability, the G63 4×4² is a rare blend of ruggedness and opulence.
10. Rivian R1S – 14.9 Inches
The electric Rivian R1S leads the pack with an astonishing 14.9 inches of ground clearance, thanks to its adjustable air suspension. With up to 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque from its quad-motor powertrain, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in just three seconds.
Despite its incredible speed, it retains an EPA-rated range of 321 miles. Silent and environmentally friendly, the R1S enables adventurers to explore nature without emissions. Its futuristic technology, combined with supreme off-road capability, makes it a unique contender in the high-clearance SUV segment.
Selecting the ideal high-ground clearance SUV depends on personal needs, whether it be luxury, performance, or extreme off-road ability. From the family-friendly Ford Expedition to the cutting-edge Rivian R1S, each SUV on this list excels in its own way.
While traditional off-road giants like the Wrangler and Bronco Raptor continue to dominate, innovative electric and luxury SUVs are redefining the segment.
No matter the choice, these SUVs provide unmatched adventure potential, ensuring that every journey—whether on paved roads or rugged trails—is met with confidence and capability.
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