What is the ground clearance of the Highlander?
3 Answers
The ground clearance of the Highlander is 170mm, which is the clearance when the vehicle is fully loaded. The clearance when unloaded is higher than 122mm, making it sufficient for urban driving conditions. The minimum ground clearance of typical family sedans generally ranges from 110mm to 150mm. A higher ground clearance improves the vehicle's off-road capability, but may reduce stability when driving on highways. The Highlander's body dimensions are 4890mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1720mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2790mm. It is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering a maximum power of 162kW and a maximum torque of 350Nm.
The Highlander has a ground clearance of about 200mm. I've been driving this car to work for several years, and the height is quite suitable for urban roads. It never scrapes the chassis when going over speed bumps, and it's also convenient to park in garages. When fully loaded, it may drop to around 190mm, so be careful not to overload it, as it can affect stability. In winter with icy conditions or during the rainy season with waterlogged roads, a higher ground clearance is much safer, reducing the risk of skidding or getting flooded. I make it a habit to check the tire pressure every month to ensure it's within the recommended range, otherwise, the clearance might decrease. It performs well on mild off-road trails, much better than a sedan, but be cautious when venturing into deep mountains. Overall, it's quite balanced—spacious and stable. During maintenance, the height of the lift is just right for oil changes.
As an SUV enthusiast, the Highlander's ground clearance of approximately 203mm is generally sufficient for daily off-road scenarios, with no major issues during water crossings. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, it appears slightly lower, but after modifying the suspension, it can be increased by several dozen millimeters, enhancing its off-road capability. I've taken it on mountain roads, where it handled potholes smoothly, thanks to its well-designed approach and departure angles. A reminder: avoid frequent heavy loads, as it may reduce the height and affect handling. Fuel efficiency is average, with slightly higher air resistance due to the increased clearance. Installing skid plates for the undercarriage provides extra peace of mind. The visibility is excellent for city driving, but there's some body sway at high speeds, which can be stabilized by adjusting driving habits. Regular checks for suspension wear are crucial.
