Imagine a car that constantly adjusts its suspension in response to changing road conditions in order to ensure a continuously smooth ride. This is basically what adaptive suspension does; it actively changes the configuration of the suspension in order to mitigate the impact of potholes, bumpy roads, and other impediments on the driving experience.

As we’ll explore further in this post, this allows adaptive (or active) suspension to offer drivers a better handling, feel, responsiveness, and safety.

How does adaptive suspension work?

Adaptive (or active) suspension systems use sensors and microprocessors to monitor the road beneath its wheels in real time. A computer reads the data as it’s sent over by the sensors and adjusts the shocks and springs to create a smooth driving experience.

Is adaptive suspension worth the cost?

For those who have a long commute, drive frequently on bumpy roads, or just appreciate the feeling of a seamless drive, adaptive suspension can be well worth the price.

Which vehicles offer adaptive suspension?

As of the time of writing, adaptive suspension is offered as a standard or optional feature on these vehicles.

Acura Active Damper System

Acura’s adaptive suspension is only available on Sport Hybrid models.

Audi Adaptive Damping Suspension

Audi’s adaptive suspension is offered on the 2017 A4 and 2018 S4, A5 and Q5

BMW Adaptive Drive with Variable Damper Control

BMW’s adaptive suspension is available on the 5 Series, 6 Series, X6, and most Alpina models

Buick Continuous Damping Control Active Suspension

Buick’s adaptive suspension is available on the LaCrosse

Cadillac Magnetic Ride Control Adaptive Suspension

Cadillac’s adaptive suspension is an option on the ATS, CTS, and XTS

Dodge Adaptive Damping Suspension

Dodge’s adaptive suspension is offered on the Charger and Challenger

Ford Adaptive Suspension

Ford’s adaptive suspension is offered on the Ford Fusion Sport

Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension

Genesis’ adaptive suspension is available on the G90

GMC Magnetic Ride Control Adaptive Suspension

GMC’s adaptive suspension is available on the Yukon and Sierra 1500

Infiniti Dynamic Digital Suspension

Infiniti’s adaptive suspension is available on the Q50 and Q60

Jeep Adaptive Damping Suspension

Jeep’s adaptive suspension is available on the Grand Cherokee SRT.

Land Rover Adaptive Dynamics with advanced MagneRide

Land Rover’s adaptive suspension is available on the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Sport

Mercedes-Benz Active Suspension

Mercedes-Benz’ has three different adaptive suspension systems: Agility Control is available on the C-Class, E-Clas, GLC-Class and GLE-Class; AIRMATIC is offered on the S-Class, CLS-Class and GLS-Class; Active Body Control is exclusive to the SL-Class

Porsche Active Suspension Management

Porsche’s adaptive suspension is available on the Cayenne

Toyota Adaptive Variable Suspension

Toyota’s adaptive suspension is offered on the Sequoia

Volkswagen Dynamic Chassis Control

Volkswagen’s adaptive suspension is available on the Golf R

Volvo FOUR-C Active Chassis

Volvo’s adaptive suspension is available on the XC90

Whether or not you want adaptive suspension in your new vehicle, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.