What is the ground clearance of a Honda Civic in inches?

Most modern Civics sit about 5.7 inches off the ground, with small variations depending on year, trim, and wheel/tire setup.

Ground clearance describes the vertical distance from the road to the lowest point of the vehicle’s undercarriage. It influences how the car handles rough pavement, speed bumps, and steep driveways. Because Honda updates suspensions, wheel sizes, and body styles across generations, the exact clearance can vary by model year, trim, and configuration.

Current-generation snapshot

Here's a general snapshot for the latest Civics, noting that exact figures can vary by trim and wheel choice:

• Most modern Civics (2016–present across the 10th and 11th generations) have a ground clearance around 5.7 inches.


• Alternative wheel/tire sizes or sport trims may push ground clearance slightly lower or higher, typically within a 5.6–5.8 inch band.

In practice, those numbers translate to a comfortable ride on city streets with modest road irregularities, but they are not designed for serious off-roading. Always check the specific figure for your exact model year and trim in the owner's manual or Honda's official brochure.

Why it varies by model year and trim

Honda's Civic has evolved through multiple generations with changes in suspension tuning, tire width, wheel diameter, and body design that affect ground clearance. For example, hatchback variants and sport trims can exhibit small differences compared with sedans, depending on wheel choices and ride height settings.

For a precise figure, identify the exact model year, body style (sedan or hatchback), and trim level, and consult Honda's official specifications or a dealership data sheet.

Measuring ground clearance

How to measure: on level ground, measure from the road to the lowest point of the undercarriage. Factors such as load, suspension travel, and ride-height settings can affect the result.

Practical implications

Drivers who frequently encounter uneven pavement, steep driveways, or speed bumps should consider the impact of ground clearance on approach angles. While Civics offer efficient aerodynamics and a comfortable ride, they are not designed for serious off-road use.

Summary

Across recent model years, expect around 5.7 inches of ground clearance for most Honda Civics, with a typical range of about 5.6–5.8 inches depending on year, body style (sedan or hatchback), trim, and wheel/tire configuration. For an exact figure, verify the specific model year and trim in the official specifications or owner's manual.

How high off the ground is a Honda Civic?

The ground clearance for a Honda Civic varies by model and year, but it is typically around 5.1 to 6.7 inches (130-170 mm). For example, the 2022 model has a ground clearance of about 6.7 inches, while a 2018 Civic Sedan Si is listed at 5.1 inches.
 

• 2022 Honda Civic: Approximately 6.7 inches (17 cm)
• 2018 Civic Sedan Si: 5.1 inches (130 mm)
• 10th Gen Sport Touring: 5.04 inches (128 mm)
• 10th Gen Si (Coupe and Sedan): 4.72 inches (120 mm)

Which Honda Civics to stay away from?

Years to avoid the Honda Civic include 2001–2005, 2006–2009, and 2012 and 2016, which have been associated with problems like transmission failures, cracked engine blocks, and faulty airbags. The 2001 model is often cited as the worst due to a high number of complaints, recalls, and transmission issues. Other specific years like 2007, 2009, and 2016 also have known problems such as cracked engine blocks and issues with the AC and Bluetooth systems.
 
Specific model years to avoid:

• 2001–2005:
  • Transmission failures: The automatic transmission was known to fail around 100,000 miles. 
  • Engine problems: Cracked engine blocks are a known issue, especially in the 2006–2009 models. 
  • Airbag recalls: These models were affected by the widespread Takata airbag recall. 
  • Other issues: Faulty fuel pumps and battery problems in hybrids were also reported. 
• 2006–2009:
  • Cracked engine blocks: This was a significant problem for this generation. 
  • Airbag issues: Recalls were common, particularly for the hybrid models in 2006. 
• 2012:
  • Transmission issues: Some reports suggest problems with the transmission in this model year. 
• 2016:
  • AC unit and Bluetooth problems: This model year is known for issues with its air conditioning system and Bluetooth connectivity. 
  • Steering rack failures: Steering rack failures have been reported in some instances. 

What to look for instead:

• Most reliable years:
  • 2012–2015: These years generally have good reliability ratings. 
  • 2020–2024: Recent models are considered reliable with good fuel economy and safety ratings. 
• Good alternatives:
  • 2004–2005
  • 2011
  • 2013–2015 

Which Honda has the best ground clearance?

The Honda with the highest ground clearance is the 2026 Passport, at 8.3 inches. This is followed closely by the CR-V with an AWD system, which has up to 8.2 inches of clearance, and the HR-V Sport, which has 7.3 inches. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2026 Honda Passport: 59sVision Effect TVYouTube · Nov 13, 2024

• 2026 Honda Passport: Offers 8.3 inches of ground clearance, plus a wider stance and enhanced off-road features like underbody protection. 
• Honda CR-V: With the optional Real Time AWD system, it can reach up to 8.2 inches of ground clearance. 
• Honda HR-V: The Sport trim has the highest ground clearance in the lineup, at 7.3 inches. 

This video explains the ground clearance of the 2024 Honda CR-V: 57sFernandez HondaYouTube · Feb 26, 2024

What is considered good ground clearance?

Good ground clearance varies by vehicle type and intended use, ranging from 4-6 inches for most sedans to 8-10 inches or more for SUVs and trucks designed for off-road use. For light off-roading, 6-8 inches is often sufficient, while challenging terrain like rock crawling requires 10-12 inches or higher. 
Ground clearance by vehicle type

• Sedans and hatchbacks: Typically have 4 to 6 inches of ground clearance, suitable for paved roads and minor obstacles like speed bumps. 
• SUVs and Crossovers: Usually offer more, with 6 to 8 inches being common. Some larger models or those with optional suspension can reach 8 to 10 inches or more. 
• Off-road focused vehicles: Have higher clearances, starting around 8-10 inches and going up to 12 inches or more for dedicated off-roaders. 

Ground clearance for different types of off-roading 

• Light off-roading (gravel, dirt roads): 6 to 8 inches is generally enough. 
• Moderate off-roading (uneven terrain, logs): 8 to 10 inches is ideal. 
• Challenging off-roading (rock crawling, deep mud): 10 to 12 inches or more is recommended. 

Other factors to consider

• Vehicle load: A vehicle's clearance decreases when it's loaded with passengers and cargo, so it's important to consider the unladen measurement plus the expected load. 
• Other factors: Tires, approach and departure angles, and skid plates also play a significant role in a vehicle's overall off-road capability.