Is the Civic's Ground Clearance Too Low? Should I Buy It?
2 Answers
Although it is relatively low, it is still worth buying. Here are the relevant details: Reasons: Since it is typically driven in urban areas, the Civic's ground clearance does not affect normal driving. However, it is not suitable for rural muddy roads with many potholes, as the design concept of sedans is for road driving, not harsh road conditions. Ground Clearance: The Honda Civic has a minimum ground clearance of 105mm, while most family sedans range between 120-130mm, making it slightly lower than average in the sedan industry. The Civic is positioned as a sporty family sedan, and the lowered ground clearance enhances its coupe-like body lines, better showcasing its sporty style.
My Civic has been commuting in the city for ten years. Its low chassis actually makes it more stable, with smooth lane changes on highways and low fuel consumption. It handles flat urban roads perfectly fine. Getting in and out of garage ramps is effortless—the car stays close to the ground with minimal wind resistance, quick acceleration response, and agile handling that feels just right. If you mostly drive on paved roads, the low clearance isn’t a big deal. But when encountering potholes or construction zones, you’ll need to slow down to avoid scrapes. I’d suggest prioritizing your driving habits—if 90% of your time is spent city driving, the Civic is worth it for its fuel efficiency, durability, and affordable maintenance. If you’re really worried about the chassis, you can add skid plates for extra protection—simple yet practical. In short, base your decision on daily road conditions, and don’t let the height be a dealbreaker.
