How high is Honda Civic off the ground?
Most current Honda Civics sit roughly 5.3–5.8 inches (135–148 mm) above the road, with small variations by model and trim. The sedan and hatchback share similar ground clearance, though exact numbers depend on tires and optional features.
Ground clearance by body style
Ground clearance varies slightly between the sedan and the hatchback, reflecting differences in body design and suspension tuning. Here is a general snapshot for the current generation:
- Sedan (11th generation, 2022–present): approximately 5.3–5.8 inches (135–148 mm).
- Hatchback (11th generation, 2022–present): approximately 5.3–6.0 inches (135–152 mm).
These ranges cover typical factory setups across common trims; exact figures can vary with tire size, wheel options, and any aero or sport packages included by the manufacturer or aftermarket suppliers.
Real-world considerations and how to verify
Ground clearance is just one factor that affects how a Civic handles rough driveways, speed bumps, and uneven roads. Tire choice, suspension tuning, and underbody shields can all shift the practical clearance a driver experiences. When evaluating a Civic for daily use or possible off-highway light-duty driving, it helps to verify the exact figure for your preferred trim and equipment.
How to verify ground clearance for a specific Civic you’re considering
To help readers perform their own check, follow these steps:
- Consult the official spec sheet for your exact trim on Honda’s website or in the owner's manual to get the baseline curb-to-ground clearance.
- Measure the clearance yourself with the car on a level surface: place a straightedge or ruler from the ground to a fixed point on the bumper or undercarriage, ensuring you measure at the same point each time.
- Take measurements with the tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures and using stock wheels and tires (before any aftermarket changes).
- Consider how tire size or wheel upgrades may alter clearance; larger or wider tires can reduce ground clearance, while certain wheel/tire combos might raise or lower the ride height slightly.
- Account for load: a fully loaded trunk and passengers can reduce clearance by a noticeable amount; measure with a typical load to reflect real-world conditions.
Bottom line: use the official specs as the baseline, and be mindful that real-world clearance can vary with tires, suspension changes, and vehicle load.
Summary
In the current Honda Civic lineup, ground clearance generally sits in the 5.3–5.8 inches range for sedans and about 5.3–6.0 inches for hatchbacks, with minor variations by trim, tires, and packages. For the most accurate figure, always check the precise specifications for the exact trim you’re considering and, if possible, verify with a physical measurement on the vehicle you’re evaluating.
