Guide to Off-Road Specs in Ann Arbor, MI

Guide to Off-Road Specs

When you’re planning your next adventure in your Subaru Crosstrek or Subaru Outback, you’ll want to understand all the terms and specs that go with off-roading. You’ll want to be able to enjoy the journey and every incline, bump, and splash in between, so before you hit the trails, here’s a guide to understanding what your spec matters to you.

• Departure, Break-Over, and Approach Angles – When departing from an incline, it’s essential to understand these terms so your vehicle doesn’t scrap. These angles determine your vehicle's agility and safety in certain terrains.
• Approach Angle: The angle at which your vehicle can climb without the front making contact.
• Departure Angle: The angle at which your vehicle can descend without the rear contacting the ground.
• Break-Over Angle: The steepest point your vehicle can climb without getting stuck at its center.
• Underbody Protection – Your vehicle's underbody is exposed to the elements. If you intend to go off-roading, you’ll want to ensure your vehicle's underbody is protected from branches, logs, or boulders. You can protect your underbody with skid plates and splash guards.
• Water Fording Depth – This is the depth at which you can drive through water without damaging the vehicle’s engine. This information is essential to keeping your vehicle safe, and disregarding this information can be disastrous.
• Tires & Traction – The type of tires and traction on your vehicle also impacts the type of terrain your vehicle can cross.
• Ground Clearance – The amount of space between the ground and the vehicle base. This information determines which terrain you can navigate without damage or entrapment.
• Axle Articulation – How much the axle on your vehicle can move up and down in relation to the chassis. This information is useful in determining which obstacles your vehicle can tackle.
• Drivetrain – The type of wheels your engine powers, such as all-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is the ideal drivetrain when off-roading.
• Ramp Travel Index (RTI) – This determines how well a vehicle handles inclines, so the higher the RTI, the better your vehicle handles inclines.

Find Off-Road-Ready Vehicles at Subaru of Ann Arbor

If you're new to off-roading, you might think it's just about driving on dirt roads. But for those who've experienced the excitement, it's a connection between man and machine, a graceful balance of power and precision. With the right vehicle and knowledge, you're ready to explore new terrain and follow your adventurous spirit. Look no further than Subaru of Ann Arbor to find your ideal off-road companion. Our team is dedicated to providing you with more than just a vehicle; we're here to help you discover your next great adventure. Come see us today, and let us assist you in finding your perfect partner for all your off-road expeditions.