Off-roading enthusiasts and automotive enthusiasts alike are always on the lookout for reliable and capable off-road vehicles. Recently, a YouTube video uploaded by Gaurav Kharsan on their channel shed light on the ground clearance capabilities of two popular off-road vehicles: the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and the Mahindra Scorpio-N. In the video comparing the two highly popular SUVs in the country, the Jimny and the Scorpio-N were made to climb over a small off-road bump and the results might surprise you as to who won this competition.
The video begins with the Maruti Suzuki Jimny approaching a small off-road bump. With its compact yet robust design, the Jimny effortlessly surmounts the obstacle, showcasing its impressive ground clearance and excellent off-road capability. The video then transitions to the Mahindra Scorpio-N, which attempts to cross the same bump but fails to do so, highlighting its limitations in terms of ground clearance.
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Ground clearance, often measured as the distance between the lowest point of a vehicle’s underbody and the ground, plays a pivotal role in off-roading. It determines a vehicle’s ability to tackle uneven terrain, obstacles, and rough trails without causing damage to critical components. A higher ground clearance allows the vehicle to traverse over rocks, fallen branches, steep inclines, and other obstacles that may be encountered during off-road adventures.
In the case of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny, its ground clearance stands at an impressive 210 millimeters (8.3 inches). This figure provides the Jimny with ample room to maneuver over challenging terrains with ease, making it an ideal choice for off-roading enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Mahindra Scorpio-N boasts a ground clearance of 187 millimeters (7.1 inches), which, while respectable, falls short compared to the Jimny. This disparity in ground clearance is a key factor that contributed to the Scorpio-N’s inability to cross the off-road bump in the video.
Essential Tips for Successful Off-Roading
Choose the right vehicle
When venturing off-road, select a vehicle that offers sufficient ground clearance, robust suspension, and 4×4 capabilities. This ensures enhanced traction and stability on challenging terrains.
Know your vehicle
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s specifications, including its ground clearance, approach and departure angles, and other off-road features. Understanding your vehicle’s capabilities will help you make informed decisions while traversing obstacles.
Approach angles and departure angles
Pay attention to your vehicle’s approach angle (the steepest slope a vehicle can drive up without scraping its front bumper) and departure angle (the steepest slope a vehicle can drive down without damaging its rear end). These angles determine the vehicle’s ability to tackle uneven terrain without getting stuck.
Tire pressure
Adjusting tire pressure according to the terrain can significantly improve off-road performance. Lowering tire pressure increases the contact area, enhancing traction on soft surfaces like sand or mud.
Maintain a steady pace
While off-roading, maintain a consistent speed to avoid getting stuck. Sudden accelerations or decelerations can lead to loss of traction and control.
Plan and communicate
Before embarking on an off-road adventure, plan your route, communicate with fellow off-roaders, and inform someone about your plans. This ensures safety and assistance if needed.
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