When choosing a car, one of the most overlooked yet crucial features is ride height—the distance between the vehicle’s chassis and the ground. Whether you’re navigating city potholes, rural gravel roads, or suburban speed bumps, a car’s ride height directly impacts comfort, practicality, and even your wallet.
Some drivers crave the elevated perspective, easier ingress and egress, and improved clearance that come with high-riding vehicles. Others, often unknowingly, wind up with ultra-low cars that scrape, struggle, and suffer through real-world roads.
In this article, we explore two extremes of the spectrum. First, we’ll highlight 5 cars with excellent ride height—vehicles that give you confidence on rough terrain, poor weather, or even just a steep driveway. These cars are practical and versatile, offering a commanding view of the road without feeling bulky.
Then, we’ll dive into 5 cars that sit too close to the ground—models that might look sporty or sleek but can become a nuisance in everyday driving. From aggressive front lips to fragile undercarriages, these cars can make basic errands feel like obstacle courses.
Ride height isn’t just a spec—it’s a lifestyle consideration. Let’s look at which cars rise to the challenge and which fall short.
Also Read: 5 Cars That Are Loved After 5 Years and 5 Cars That Cause Regret
5 Cars With Great Ride Height
Ride height may not be the flashiest spec in a brochure, but in real-world driving, it often determines how stress-free—or stressful—your ownership experience will be. A higher ride height means better ground clearance, easier entry and exit, enhanced visibility, and an increased sense of road dominance.
In today’s world of unpredictable roads, frequent construction, and erratic weather conditions, a car that rides high isn’t just a convenience—it’s a practical necessity.
The appeal of high-riding vehicles stretches far beyond off-road enthusiasts. Parents with young kids appreciate the ease of loading and unloading. Older drivers value the upright seating position.
City dwellers benefit from the ability to see over traffic. And commuters tackling snow, potholes, or steep driveways need the extra clearance to avoid scraping bumpers or underbodies. These aren’t fringe benefits—they’re part of the daily driving experience.
In this section, we spotlight five vehicles that get ride height exactly right. Each one balances form and function, offering elevated ground clearance without becoming overly tall or cumbersome. These aren’t just lifted trucks—they range from SUVs to crossovers and even some clever car-based platforms that provide a high seating position while maintaining car-like handling.
We’re not just listing vehicles for the sake of it. This guide is written to help real-world drivers—those who want comfort, confidence, and peace of mind on a variety of road conditions. Whether you’re shopping for a reliable daily driver or trying to escape the frustration of scraping every time you exit a parking lot, these vehicles stand tall—literally and figuratively.
Let’s take a closer look at the five cars that offer the best ride height, and explore why they continue to be smart choices for people who want a hassle-free drive from the ground up.
1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite for those seeking a vehicle with excellent ride height combined with the versatility of an all-wheel-drive system. With a ground clearance of about 8.7 inches, the Outback strikes a balance between a crossover SUV and a rugged off-roader, making it ideal for drivers who frequently navigate uneven or gravel roads.
This mid-size wagon features impressive visibility, thanks to its elevated stance, which helps drivers easily see over traffic while maintaining a car-like driving experience. The Outback’s raised suspension allows for better handling in snow, dirt, or light off-roading conditions, which is why it remains a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
The comfort factor is equally strong—thanks to the Outback’s high ride height, drivers and passengers enjoy easy entry and exit, even for taller individuals or those with mobility issues. This is especially appreciated during long road trips or daily errands, where getting in and out of the car can otherwise become cumbersome.
With its balance of practicality, style, and rugged capability, the Subaru Outback is perfect for those who need a reliable ride with an elevated perspective and the ability to handle more than just smooth city streets.
2. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V offers a great ride height at approximately 7.8 inches, which provides ample clearance for urban potholes, gravel roads, and weekend adventures. As one of the most popular compact SUVs, the CR-V appeals to those seeking a vehicle that delivers a comfortable driving position without feeling too bulky.
The higher ground clearance means that the CR-V has a natural advantage when it comes to handling rougher road surfaces. It’s not designed for serious off-roading, but it certainly performs well in inclement weather, such as snowy conditions or during heavy rain.
Drivers can navigate curbs, high-speed bumps, and even shallow floods with ease, all while maintaining a comfortable ride and smooth handling on highways.
The CR-V’s higher ride height also contributes to better visibility, allowing drivers to see further ahead in traffic and spot hazards early. This results in a safer driving experience, especially on busy streets or highways. Additionally, the CR-V’s cabin benefits from easy ingress and egress, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone who values comfort and practicality.
Though the CR-V isn’t a true off-roader, its elevated ride height and thoughtful design make it one of the most practical choices for city driving, weekend trips, and light adventures.
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most iconic SUVs when it comes to off-road prowess and ground clearance. With a ride height of up to 10.8 inches, this SUV stands tall, literally and figuratively. It’s perfect for those who want an elevated driving position without sacrificing on-road performance.
What makes the Grand Cherokee stand out is its quadra-lift air suspension system, which allows drivers to adjust the ride height based on their needs. This system gives the vehicle impressive flexibility—rising to its maximum height for off-road capability or lowering for improved aerodynamics on highways.
In addition to being highly capable off-road, the Grand Cherokee offers superb visibility and easy entry/exit due to its high stance. Whether you’re traversing rocky trails or maneuvering through city streets, the Grand Cherokee delivers a comfortable, commanding presence on the road. It also shines in inclement weather, such as snow or heavy rain, where the extra clearance makes it more resilient against road damage and obstacles.
Its rugged design and high ride height aren’t just for off-road enthusiasts, either. For families and commuters alike, the Jeep Grand Cherokee provides excellent comfort with enough clearance to feel confident in varying driving conditions.
4. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a true off-road legend that excels with its elevated ride height. With a clearance of 9.6 inches, it’s built to handle a variety of terrains—from city streets to backcountry trails—making it a go-to option for adventure-seekers who require both comfort and ruggedness.
The 4Runner’s ride height offers an excellent balance for off-roading and daily driving. The higher clearance helps the vehicle easily clear obstacles like rocks, logs, and steep inclines while offering great visibility of the road ahead.
Whether navigating through mountain passes or simply avoiding potholes in urban areas, the 4Runner’s raised height ensures that drivers are never caught off guard by road conditions.
In addition to its off-road credentials, the Toyota 4Runner’s ride height provides easy access to the vehicle’s interior, especially beneficial for those who frequently load or unload gear or passengers. The tall stance helps with ingress and egress, offering greater convenience for families or individuals who need a practical, dependable vehicle.
While the 4Runner’s high ground clearance might mean a slightly firmer ride, it provides a superb driving experience for anyone who regularly encounters rugged roads or challenging conditions, all while retaining everyday practicality.
5. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape, with its 7.8-inch ride height, offers a balance between ground clearance and driving comfort. It is a compact SUV that offers enough elevation for practical use without compromising on handling or fuel efficiency.
The Escape is equipped with a smart suspension system that delivers a smooth ride on both city roads and light off-road surfaces. Whether you’re driving through a rainstorm, navigating potholes, or heading to a weekend cabin, the Escape’s elevated ground clearance ensures better handling of rough terrain and uneven surfaces.
The ride height of the Ford Escape also provides a clear advantage in terms of visibility, allowing drivers to have a better view of traffic, pedestrians, and obstacles, which enhances safety. The SUV’s slightly higher stance also facilitates easy entry and exit for passengers, making it a practical choice for families or older individuals who appreciate comfort without sacrificing performance.
This SUV is perfect for those seeking a compact vehicle that offers enough height to feel confident on the road but doesn’t sacrifice handling or fuel efficiency. Whether commuting daily or heading off for a weekend getaway, the Ford Escape’s combination of ride height and versatility makes it a fantastic choice.
5 Cars That Are Too Low to Live
While a low ride height often translates to sleek aesthetics and improved aerodynamics, it can also create a range of frustrations for everyday drivers. Cars that sit too close to the ground can be gorgeous to look at, but in reality, they often come with trade-offs that can turn mundane tasks like parking or driving on less-than-perfect roads into a headache.
Whether it’s scraping the underside every time you go over a speed bump or struggling to get out of driveways, low-slung cars often require a level of care and attention that may not fit with everyone’s lifestyle.
For some, the beauty and handling of these cars are worth the sacrifice, but for many others, the drawbacks can outweigh the allure. Cars with excessively low ride heights tend to suffer from poor ground clearance, which means they’re prone to scraping curbs, driveways, and potholes. These cars also often have compromised suspension systems, making them less capable of handling rough or uneven surfaces without jolting the driver and passengers.
In this section, we’ll examine five cars that are too low to live with. These vehicles may be attractive, but their ride height often leaves owners regretting their decision when it comes time to face real-world road conditions.
While these cars may look fantastic on a showroom floor, their low stance can turn everyday driving into a frustrating experience—especially for those who aren’t willing to constantly worry about bumps or scraping.
Let’s take a closer look at these stylish but impractical cars and break down why they might not be the best option for the average driver.
1. Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is an iconic muscle car, known for its aggressive looks and thrilling performance. However, despite its performance-focused design, the Camaro’s ride height can be a major headache for those who want a practical daily driver. With a ground clearance of just 4.1 inches, this low-slung beast can be difficult to drive in everyday conditions.
For starters, the Camaro’s low clearance makes it prone to scraping the front bumper on curbs, steep driveways, or even high-speed bumps. This not only leads to cosmetic damage but can also affect the car’s underlying components, causing wear and tear on crucial parts like the suspension and exhaust system.
Additionally, its suspension system is designed for high-performance handling on smooth roads, but on uneven surfaces, the car becomes prone to harsh jolts and bumps, making for an uncomfortable ride.
While the Camaro is undoubtedly fun to drive on flat, open highways or racetracks, it’s not designed for those who have to face rough city streets, potholes, or even moderate inclines. If you’re someone who values comfort and ease of daily driving over sheer performance, the Camaro’s low ride height might leave you feeling more frustrated than exhilarated.
In short, while the Camaro’s looks and speed are undeniable, its low ride height makes it a less-than-ideal choice for anyone looking for a car that handles real-world road conditions without constant worry of damage or discomfort.
2. Lamborghini Huracán
The Lamborghini Huracán is a masterpiece of automotive engineering, known for its stunning performance and ultra-low ride height that emphasizes its track-ready capabilities. But this low stance—just 4.3 inches of ground clearance—also means the Huracán is impractical for everyday driving on anything but perfectly smooth roads.
Lamborghini designed the Huracán with performance in mind, and it excels on race tracks and winding country roads. However, for the average driver who faces urban streets, speed bumps, and driveway ramps, the car’s ride height can be a nightmare.
Even navigating a typical parking lot or entering a garage may require the driver to carefully angle the car to avoid scraping the undercarriage. This is not only inconvenient but can also result in damage to the car’s body and mechanical components, especially the front lip and suspension.
Additionally, the Huracán’s suspension system is tailored for high-speed stability, not comfort. This means that driving over potholes or poorly maintained streets can be painful and potentially damaging to the car. For those who prioritize comfort and the ability to deal with everyday road conditions, the Huracán’s low stance is simply not practical.
While the Huracán may be a dream car for speed enthusiasts, its low clearance makes it a poor fit for those who need a vehicle that can handle more than just smooth, well-maintained roads.
3. Audi R8
The Audi R8 is another stunning performance car, combining luxury, technology, and exceptional speed. However, its ground clearance of just 4.4 inches places it in the category of vehicles that are not suitable for everyday driving in typical road conditions.
The R8’s low ride height provides impressive handling on smooth, open highways or racetracks, but the constant fear of scraping over speed bumps, curbs, and even shallow driveways makes it far from practical for daily commutes.
Owners often find themselves having to navigate obstacles at an angle just to avoid damaging the car’s undercarriage. For city dwellers or those living in areas with poorly paved roads, this can become a constant source of frustration.
In addition to the practical concerns, the Audi R8’s low stance means that ground clearance is limited, leaving it vulnerable to scraping over rough patches or steep inclines. The car’s stiff suspension system, designed for performance, can feel uncomfortable on uneven roads, making it unsuitable for daily use in regions that are prone to weather-related damage like snow, rain, or ice.
Though the R8 is undeniably a thrilling car to drive on the right roads, its low ride height and suspension system make it impractical for those seeking a vehicle that can handle diverse terrain and urban living. The joy of driving the R8 may come at the cost of convenience and practicality.
4. Ferrari 488 GTB
The Ferrari 488 GTB is one of the most beautiful and powerful supercars on the market, but its low ride height (approximately 4.3 inches) is a double-edged sword. While it’s built to deliver exceptional speed and a thrilling driving experience, its low clearance often causes serious problems for drivers who need to navigate typical roads.
One of the most common issues with the 488 GTB is the risk of scraping the front lip on speed bumps, curbs, and even the entrance to parking garages. The car’s aggressive stance is perfect for aerodynamics and high-speed driving, but it makes the vehicle vulnerable to damage when faced with obstacles that most everyday cars can clear easily.
This low clearance is exacerbated by its stiff suspension, which, while great for performance driving, does not absorb road imperfections well.
For city dwellers or anyone who drives in areas where uneven surfaces and poorly maintained roads are common, the Ferrari 488 GTB’s low ride height becomes a constant source of worry. Drivers may have to take extra care when navigating driveways and parking lots, limiting the car’s usability for those who want a vehicle that is as practical as it is thrilling.
While the 488 GTB offers one of the best driving experiences available, its low ride height makes it a poor choice for anyone needing a car that can comfortably handle real-world driving conditions.
5. Porsche 911 GT3
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance sports car beloved by enthusiasts for its precise handling and track-ready capabilities. However, with a ground clearance of just 4.2 inches, the 911 GT3 is not a car suited to everyday driving, particularly for those who have to deal with city streets or uneven surfaces.
The low ride height of the 911 GT3 means that it’s prone to scraping when driving over speed bumps, driveways, or curbs. The car’s sport-tuned suspension also means it’s not as comfortable as other vehicles when driving over rough roads.
The stiff suspension is great for high-performance driving, but it leads to an uncomfortable ride on uneven or pothole-ridden streets. For those who are used to smooth highways, the constant jarring from bumps can be an unwelcome experience.
Additionally, the low clearance puts the car at risk of damage to its undercarriage, which can be costly to repair. Whether it’s navigating parking lots or daily errands, the 911 GT3’s low stance requires extra caution to avoid bottoming out or scraping.
While the Porsche 911 GT3 excels on the racetrack, its low ride height makes it far less practical for anyone who needs a car that can handle a variety of road conditions. It’s a dream car for performance lovers, but not a great fit for daily driving in urban environments or places with rough roads.
When it comes to choosing the right vehicle, ride height can significantly influence the driving experience, and even determine whether a car is practical for daily life. As we’ve seen, the cars with great ride heights provide a level of comfort, convenience, and confidence for everyday driving.
They allow drivers to easily navigate obstacles like potholes, speed bumps, and uneven roads, without the constant fear of scraping or damaging the car. These vehicles offer a smooth, comfortable ride that is both practical and enjoyable, making them ideal for people who want a car that performs well in various driving conditions, including urban areas and rougher terrains.
On the other hand, cars with low ride heights may be breathtaking to look at, offering a sleek, stylish appearance and exceptional performance on smooth highways or racetracks. However, their low stance often comes at the cost of practicality.
Scraping over curbs, struggling with speed bumps, and dealing with uncomfortable rides on uneven roads are common complaints. These cars may excel in performance but can be impractical for anyone who needs a vehicle capable of handling everyday road conditions without constant worry about damage or discomfort.
Ultimately, the right choice between these two categories depends on what you value more: performance and aesthetics or practicality and comfort. While a low-slung sports car might be perfect for the performance enthusiast, it’s far from ideal for those who drive regularly on city streets, have a long daily commute, or live in areas with rough weather and road conditions.
On the other hand, cars with higher ground clearance can give you peace of mind, providing better protection and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable driving experience, day in and day out.
Also Read: 5 Cars That Are Loved After 5 Years and 5 Cars That Cause Regret