What is the ground clearance of mainstream joint-venture SUVs?
2 Answers
The ground clearance of general SUV models ranges between 200mm and 250mm. Introduction to ground clearance: Minimum ground clearance refers to the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle (excluding wheels) and the supporting plane when the vehicle is fully loaded and stationary. It is used to characterize the vehicle's ability to pass over obstacles such as rocks and tree stumps without collision. The smaller the ground clearance, the worse the ability to overcome obstacles. Passenger cars usually travel on flat urban roads, so they have smaller ground clearance. Off-road vehicles have larger minimum ground clearance to overcome larger obstacles. The larger the minimum ground clearance, the stronger the vehicle's ability to pass over obstacles or uneven ground, but the higher center of gravity reduces stability. Methods for measuring ground clearance: An automated detection system composed of position sensors, computers, cameras, and lights is used to measure the minimum ground clearance.
For those of us who have driven SUVs for over a decade, we know that the ground clearance of mainstream joint-venture SUVs typically ranges between 180 to 220 millimeters. For example, the Honda CR-V is around 198mm, the Toyota RAV4 is approximately 196mm, and the Volkswagen Tiguan is 200mm. This height is quite suitable for city driving—it handles potholes without much trouble and isn't so high as to affect cornering stability. When I was changing cars, I specifically checked this parameter because it determines the vehicle's off-road capability. Higher clearance helps prevent scraping the undercarriage, but if it's too high, fuel consumption increases. I recommend test-driving the actual vehicle when choosing a car. For instance, the Chevrolet Equinox's 203mm clearance is considered above average, making it suitable for daily commutes and weekend getaways. However, don't blindly pursue higher clearance for off-roading, as it can increase risks instead. Overall, staying within this range ensures both safety and practicality.