When most people think of sedans, the image that typically comes to mind is one of low-slung, sporty vehicles designed primarily for comfort and style. While this may be true for some, there is a growing number of mass-market sedans designed to tackle rough roads and uneven terrains, offering higher ground clearance without sacrificing the performance and luxury expected from sedans. Ground clearance plays a crucial role in a sedan’s ability to navigate potholes, curbs, and even unpaved roads with ease, providing both practical benefits and a smoother driving experience.
If you are on the hunt for a sedan that combines the convenience of a daily driver with the ability to handle less-than-ideal road conditions, here’s a list of the mass-market sedans with the highest ground clearance.
1. Subaru Legacy (8.7 inches)
Subaru is synonymous with rugged capability, particularly due to its legendary all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The Subaru Legacy sedan stands out in the mid-size sedan segment not just for its AWD prowess, but also for its ground clearance. With an impressive 8.7 inches of clearance, the Legacy can comfortably handle rough roads and light off-road terrain, making it an ideal choice for those who need more than just a commuter vehicle.
The Legacy’s elevated ground clearance helps drivers navigate tricky weather conditions, such as snow or flooded streets, without worrying about scraping the undercarriage. Additionally, it comes with a well-equipped interior, including advanced safety features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, making it a balanced choice for families and adventure-seekers alike.
2. Toyota Camry (6.1 inches)
The Toyota Camry has long been a favorite in the mid-size sedan category due to its reliability, comfort, and solid performance. While the Camry isn’t as high off the ground as the Subaru Legacy, its 6.1-inch ground clearance is still above average for a sedan and more than enough to handle everyday driving conditions, including navigating over speed bumps or uneven roads without worry.
The Camry strikes a great balance between ground clearance and road-hugging dynamics, with a refined suspension system that keeps the ride smooth while still offering practicality. Furthermore, the Camry offers a wide range of trims, including hybrid options, to cater to various driving needs.
3. Honda Accord (6.5 inches)
Another perennial favorite in the mid-size sedan market, the Honda Accord has long been praised for its blend of performance, efficiency, and spaciousness. The Accord offers 6.5 inches of ground clearance, which is sufficient to handle everyday road hazards such as potholes and uneven surfaces. It’s not designed for off-road adventures, but it does provide the kind of clearance you’d need for urban driving, suburban roads, and rural areas with some rough patches.
The Accord’s ground clearance, combined with its agile handling and smooth ride quality, makes it an excellent choice for those who want a practical sedan without sacrificing the thrill of driving. Plus, with options like the turbocharged engine and hybrid powertrain, the Accord offers a versatile driving experience.
4. Kia K5 (6.3 inches)
The Kia K5 is a stylish, well-equipped mid-size sedan that delivers a combination of performance, technology, and practicality. While its ground clearance of 6.3 inches may not be the highest in its class, it still offers enough to handle daily driving conditions without compromising the sleek, low-profile look that many sedan buyers prefer.
With the K5, you get a sportier feel than some of its competitors, especially in the GT trim, which comes with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive. It strikes an excellent balance between urban driving and handling rough roads without feeling too high off the ground.
5. Mazda 6 (5.7 inches)
The Mazda 6 is a sporty yet practical sedan that’s revered for its sharp handling, stylish design, and premium-feeling interior. While its 5.7-inch ground clearance might be on the lower side compared to others in this list, it’s still a well-suited sedan for those who prioritize handling and performance over rugged terrain capability.
Despite its relatively lower ground clearance, the Mazda 6’s athletic suspension and tight handling make it a joy to drive on curvy roads and highways. It’s ideal for urban and suburban environments where you won’t typically encounter much rough terrain.
6. Hyundai Sonata (6.3 inches)
The Hyundai Sonata is a value-packed sedan that offers an excellent combination of features, reliability, and performance. With a ground clearance of 6.3 inches, the Sonata is positioned well above many competitors in its class when it comes to navigating rough roads, but it still maintains a low profile that ensures smooth driving dynamics.
The Sonata’s spacious interior, advanced tech, and refined ride quality make it a great choice for daily commuters and families. The Sonata also stands out with its hybrid variant, which offers improved fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly driving without compromising practicality.
7. Nissan Altima (5.1 inches)
The Nissan Altima has long been known for its comfort, smooth ride, and advanced safety features. Although its 5.1 inches of ground clearance is the lowest on this list, it is still sufficient for day-to-day driving. The Altima’s ride is focused more on providing comfort and stability rather than tackling rugged conditions, but its low profile enhances aerodynamics, which is beneficial for fuel efficiency and performance.
However, the Altima shines with its available all-wheel-drive option, which boosts traction and provides more confidence in adverse weather conditions, like snow or rain, despite its relatively low ground clearance.
8. Volkswagen Passat (5.4 inches)
The Volkswagen Passat is a classic example of a comfortable, well-balanced sedan with a generous amount of interior space. Although it doesn’t boast an impressive ground clearance, its 5.4-inch height allows it to handle normal driving conditions without issue. The Passat’s smooth ride, user-friendly tech, and spacious interior make it a top choice for commuters who prioritize comfort and value.
Conclusion
While sedans are often associated with low ground clearance, many modern sedans have been engineered to offer higher ride heights, providing drivers with the peace of mind that comes from increased ground clearance. Whether you’re looking for a family sedan or a daily commuter vehicle, several options in today’s market offer a mix of practical clearance, comfort, and capability. Models like the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry offer a perfect blend of functionality and ride quality for those who want a little extra clearance. Meanwhile, sportier options like the Kia K5 and Mazda 6 balance style and performance with adequate ground clearance, making them attractive choices for a range of buyers.
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