SUVs generally offer more space, power, and towing capability than their smaller counterparts, making them a great option for families and adventurers alike. When shopping around for one, consider where you’ll want it to take you. If you plan on off-roading, you’ll need the proper ground clearance to keep your vehicle protected.

Here’s everything you need to know about ground clearance for the

Tesla Model X.

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2022 Tesla Model X ground clearance

In both available trims, ground clearance for the 2022 Model X varies depending on the vehicle’s ride height settings. Confusingly,

the owner’s manual

only includes approximations for the highest, lowest, and medium (normal) settings:

Very Low: 5.4 inches

Medium: 6.6 inches

Very High: 8.1 inches

Drivers can choose between Very Low, Low, Medium, High, and Very High height settings, but the suspension will automatically lower the vehicle as it accelerates.

The Model X will stay in Very High mode until it has moved approximately 100 feet or accelerated past 15 mph, then automatically lower. It’ll remain in High mode for another 100 feet or until it reaches 35 mph. At speeds over 55 mph, it switches to Low mode.

Very Low mode only takes effect when the driver selects it manually.

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Tesla Model X ground clearance over the years

The Model X is a fairly new vehicle that hasn’t changed drastically since it hit the streets in 2015, but the 2022 version saw a slight reduction in ground clearance. Here’s how the Model X’s ground clearance has changed over the years, according to previous owner’s manuals:

	Lowest ride height	Medium (standard) ride height	Highest ride height
2015-2020 Tesla Model X	5.4 inches	7 inches	9 inches
2022 Tesla Model X	5.4 inches	6.6 inches	8.1 inches

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We’ll note here that Tesla refers to the medium height setting as “standard” in older manuals. Additionally, the manual for the 2015-2020 Model X doesn’t specify a minimum ground clearance, but

Car and Driver does

What is ground clearance and why does it matter?

A vehicle’s ground clearance is the distance between the ground and the lowest point in the chassis. Essentially, it measures how high off the ground the car rides. Ground clearance is most important for off-road driving or particularly rough roads.

Greater ground clearance gives drivers access to rougher terrain without worrying about damaging their car’s undercarriage. Ground clearance requirements vary drastically depending on the specific terrain and road conditions, so it’s important to know this information before heading out.

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Is the Tesla Model X a good off-road vehicle?

The Model X is not intended for off-roading. It boasts plenty of power and speed, but 6.6 inches of ground clearance in its Medium ride height setting just isn’t enough to safely clear rough terrain. Though higher ground clearance is possible in higher height settings, those settings only take effect at lower speeds.

Starting at $116,440, the 2022 Model X is far from cheap, so we’d suggest keeping it on the pavement whenever possible to avoid costly damage.

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Get the best insurance for your Tesla Model X

The Model X is a luxury SUV with a six-figure price tag, and you’ll definitely want good insurance if you plan on taking yours off-roading. (Which, to be clear, we don’t recommend.)

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