The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz engineering, providing enhanced traction, stability, and performance in various driving conditions. Many Mercedes-Benz owners and enthusiasts are curious about which models offer the highest ride height with the 4MATIC system, as this impacts off-road capability, visibility, and overall driving experience. This article will delve into the Mercedes-Benz lineup to identify the 4MATIC vehicles with the greatest ground clearance and explore the factors contributing to their elevated stance.
4MATIC Ground Clearance Comparison
| Model | Ground Clearance (Inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class (X167) | 8.5 | Flagship SUV; Air suspension allows for variable ride height. Off-Road Engineering Package further enhances ground clearance. |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (V167) | 8.1 | Mid-size SUV; Shares similar air suspension technology with the GLS. Off-Road Engineering Package available. |
| Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463) | 9.5 | Iconic off-roader; Purpose-built for rugged terrain. Features a robust suspension system and exceptional ground clearance as standard. |
| Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (X247) | 5.5 | Compact SUV; More focused on on-road comfort and practicality. |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (X253/C253) | 5.9 | Compact SUV; Available in both SUV and Coupe body styles. |
| Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class (C118) | 4.7 | Compact sedan/coupe; Sporty design; Primarily focused on on-road performance. |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W206) | 5.1 | Compact sedan/wagon; Available with 4MATIC; On-road performance oriented. |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213/W214) | 5.2 | Mid-size sedan/wagon; Available with 4MATIC; Focuses on luxury and comfort. |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) | 5.0 | Flagship sedan; Prioritizes luxury and ride quality. Air suspension can slightly alter ride height, but ground clearance remains relatively low. |
| Mercedes-Benz Metris/Vito/V-Class (W447) | Varies, typically low | Vans; Ground clearance is generally low and varies depending on specific configuration and modifications. Not primarily designed for off-road use. |
| Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (W907/W910) | Varies, typically low to moderate | Vans; Ground clearance varies greatly depending on configuration (2WD vs. 4WD, cargo vs. passenger, suspension options). 4x4 Sprinters offer increased ground clearance compared to 2WD models. Aftermarket lift kits are common. |
| Mercedes-Benz EQB (X243) | 5.5 | All-electric compact SUV; Shares similar ground clearance with the GLB. |
| Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (X296) | 7.1 | All-electric full-size SUV; Air suspension allows for variable ride height. |
Detailed Explanations
Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class (X167): The GLS-Class is Mercedes-Benz's largest SUV, offering three rows of seating and luxurious amenities. Its standard air suspension allows for adjustable ride height, increasing ground clearance for off-road situations. The available Off-Road Engineering Package further enhances its capabilities with additional drive modes and underbody protection, making it a highly capable all-around vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (V167): The GLE-Class is a mid-size SUV that balances comfort and performance. Like the GLS, it features an optional air suspension system that can raise the vehicle for improved ground clearance. The Off-Road Engineering Package is also offered, providing enhanced off-road driving modes and protection for underbody components.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463): The G-Class, or G-Wagon, is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged construction and exceptional capabilities. It boasts the highest standard ground clearance among Mercedes-Benz vehicles due to its purpose-built design for traversing challenging terrain. Its solid axles, robust suspension, and three locking differentials contribute to its impressive off-road prowess.
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (X247): The GLB-Class is a compact SUV that offers a surprising amount of interior space, including an optional third-row seat. While it features 4MATIC all-wheel drive, its ground clearance is relatively modest, indicating a greater focus on on-road driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (X253/C253): The GLC-Class is a popular compact SUV available in both traditional SUV and Coupe body styles. Its ground clearance is typical for its class, providing adequate capability for everyday driving but not specifically optimized for off-road adventures.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class (C118): The CLA-Class is a stylish compact sedan/coupe that emphasizes sporty handling and design. With its low ground clearance, it is primarily designed for on-road performance and aesthetics rather than off-road capability.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W206): The C-Class is a compact sedan/wagon that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. While available with 4MATIC, its ground clearance reflects its focus on on-road driving dynamics and comfort.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213/W214): The E-Class is a mid-size sedan/wagon known for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. Its ground clearance is designed for smooth and stable on-road performance.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223): The S-Class is Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, representing the pinnacle of luxury, technology, and refinement. While it may feature an air suspension system, its ground clearance is relatively low, prioritizing a smooth and comfortable ride over off-road capability.
Mercedes-Benz Metris/Vito/V-Class (W447): These vans are designed for commercial and passenger transport, and their ground clearance is generally low to facilitate easy loading and unloading. They are not intended for off-road use.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (W907/W910): The Sprinter van is a versatile platform used for a wide range of applications, from cargo transport to passenger shuttles and recreational vehicles. Ground clearance varies depending on the specific configuration, with 4x4 models offering increased clearance compared to 2WD versions. Aftermarket lift kits are also commonly used to further enhance ground clearance for off-road applications.
Mercedes-Benz EQB (X243): The EQB is an all-electric compact SUV that shares its platform with the GLB. Its ground clearance is similar to the GLB, indicating a focus on on-road efficiency and practicality.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (X296): The EQS SUV is an all-electric full-size SUV that offers a luxurious and spacious interior. Its air suspension allows for adjustable ride height, providing improved ground clearance for various driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mercedes-Benz has the highest ground clearance? The Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon) has the highest standard ground clearance among Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Does the 4MATIC system increase ground clearance? No, the 4MATIC system provides all-wheel drive but does not directly increase ground clearance. Ground clearance is determined by the vehicle's suspension and chassis design.
Can I increase the ground clearance of my Mercedes-Benz? Yes, aftermarket lift kits are available for some Mercedes-Benz models, particularly the Sprinter and G-Class, to increase ground clearance.
Does the air suspension on some Mercedes-Benz models increase ground clearance? Yes, the air suspension systems on models like the GLS, GLE, and EQS SUV can raise the vehicle, increasing ground clearance for off-road driving.
What is the Off-Road Engineering Package? The Off-Road Engineering Package is an option available on some Mercedes-Benz SUVs that enhances their off-road capabilities with features like additional drive modes, underbody protection, and adjustable suspension settings.
Conclusion
While the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability across the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon) stands out with the highest standard ground clearance. Other models like the GLS-Class and GLE-Class, equipped with air suspension and the Off-Road Engineering Package, offer adjustable ride height for improved off-road performance. For those prioritizing maximum ground clearance, the G-Class remains the ultimate choice.