1. Ride height

Ride height (also called ground clearance) is the distance between the bottom of a vehicle and the ground. It’s how high your car sits off the ground. Measured from the lowest point of the vehicle (often the chassis) to the ground.

  • Off-road ability - Higher ride height = better for rough terrain.
  • Handling - Lower ride height = better cornering/stability.
  • Comfort - Impacts how smooth or bumpy your ride feels.
  • Looks - Changes the vehicle's stance and style.
  • Aerodynamics - Lower height reduces wind resistance.
Ride height

Chevrolet Suburban with raised wheels and suspension. © Wikimedia.org/mark6mauno, CC BY