What cars are low to the ground?
Low-ground cars are typically sports cars, grand tourers, and some high-performance electric models that sit closer to the road than sedans or SUVs. They prioritize aerodynamics and handling over everyday practicality. A quick snapshot: widely recognized low-stanced machines include modern supercars and performance coupes from brands like Porsche, Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, Corvette, Audi, and Aston Martin.
Ride height varies by model year, trim, and optional aero or suspension packages. Some cars offer dynamic lowering via adaptive or electronic suspension modes, while others stay fixed at a very low stance. The following guide distinguishes street-legal examples that are commonly regarded as having notably low ride heights from those that are exceptionally low or track-focused.
On-road production cars with notably low ride height
The following list covers street-legal cars that are widely cited for their low stance relative to mainstream sedans and crossovers. These cars emphasize performance handling and aero, and are generally less practical for rough roads or speed bumps.
Sports coupes and grand tourers
- Porsche 911 GT3 (992)
- Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992)
- Aston Martin Vantage
- Audi R8 (V10 or newer generations)
- Mercedes-AMG GT (coupe)
- Nissan GT-R (R35, older but still notably low)
These models are known for a deliberately low center of gravity and a tuned suspension that keeps the chassis close to the road, aiding precise cornering and aero performance. Ride height can be sensitive to aero packages and optional suspension tweaks, so different trims may sit differently.
Hypercars and exotic road cars
- McLaren 720S
- McLaren 765LT
- Lamborghini Huracán EVO
- Lamborghini Huracán STO
- Ferrari F8 Tributo
- Ferrari 296 GTB
- Ferrari SF90 Stradale
- Ford GT
- Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray
- Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Among these, the emphasis is on extreme stiffness, aero integration, and very low ride heights that maximize downforce and stability at high speeds. Some have limited production status or high price points, but they are emblematic of the ground-hugging design ethos in modern hypercars.
Electric performance cars with notably low stances
Electric performance models increasingly adopt low, aerodynamic silhouettes. While many EVs are built as luxury sedans with moderate ground clearance, several high-performance and performance-oriented models sit significantly lower to the ground to optimize aero efficiency and handling.
- Tesla Model S Plaid
- Porsche Taycan Turbo S
- Audi e-tron GT
- Lucid Air
- Rimac Nevera
Electric platforms allow very low underbodies and active aero components, but some models maintain practical ride height for daily use. As with combustion cars, the exact clearance can vary by trim, wheel size, and aero package, so prospective buyers should test ride to understand real-world ground clearance.
Practical considerations and evolving trends
Driving a low-stanced car changes daily practicality. While these cars offer superior handling and aero efficiency, they can scrape on driveways, speed bumps, and rough pavement. Many manufacturers provide adaptive suspension or adjustable ride height to balance performance with usability. Market trends show a growing emphasis on aero efficiency and low drag, especially in electric performance cars, but the trade-off remains a stiffer ride and reduced ground clearance on imperfect roads.
Summary
Cars that are low to the ground are primarily high-performance sports cars, hypercars, and select electric performance models. Expect submarined ride heights in models from Porsche, Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Audi, Corvette, Tesla, Porsche, Lucid, and Rimac. The common thread is a design focus on aero and handling, balanced against everyday practicality. If you’re shopping for a low-stance car, consider your typical road conditions, parking scenarios, and whether you value aggressive handling over ride comfort.
