Do All Cars Come with Independent Suspension?
2 Answers
Not all cars are equipped with independent suspension. Independent suspension refers to a suspension system where each wheel on either side of the vehicle is individually mounted to the frame or body via an elastic suspension system. This means each wheel can compress independently without affecting the other, significantly enhancing vehicle stability. There are two main types of suspension: independent and non-independent. Common independent suspension systems include MacPherson strut, double-wishbone, multi-link, and air suspension. Independent suspension allows each wheel to move separately, meaning when one wheel encounters a bump, the other remains unaffected, improving ride comfort and stability. Independent suspension provides excellent shock absorption when cornering or driving on uneven roads, offering superior stability and comfort. However, it is not without drawbacks—its complex structure increases manufacturing costs and occupies more of the already limited interior space. Non-independent suspension, in contrast, connects the wheels on both sides as a single unit. Movement on one side affects the other, which helps maintain consistent tire angles and reduces tire wear. Non-independent suspension is cheaper to produce, takes up less space, and allows for a lower chassis.
Well, based on my own driving experience, not all cars are equipped with independent suspension. Independent suspension is a system that allows each wheel to move independently, providing a more comfortable ride, like reducing vibrations significantly when going over speed bumps. However, many economy cars, such as entry-level sedans or hatchbacks, use non-independent suspension, like torsion beam setups, which are simpler, cheaper, and have lower maintenance costs. I used to drive an older Volkswagen with a non-independent rear suspension—it was fine on city roads, but on the highway, it felt really bumpy when hitting potholes. Nowadays, new cars from luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW usually come standard with independent suspension, but budget-friendly brands, like some domestic compact cars, often omit it for the rear wheels. This affects the driving experience: independent suspension offers better handling and higher safety, while non-independent suspension is relatively stiffer and more suitable for daily commuting. When choosing a car, I recommend test-driving to feel the difference in suspension and how it impacts long-distance driving.
