Does the Prado have independent suspension?
2 Answers
Toyota Prado's chassis adopts a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear four-link independent suspension configuration. Introduction to double-wishbone independent suspension: This type is more performance-oriented. Due to the addition of an upper A-arm, it occupies more space compared to MacPherson strut independent suspension and requires more complex adjustments for wheel alignment parameters. Air suspension: A high-quality SUV needs both the comfort of a sedan and the off-road capability of an SUV. Air suspension system is the best choice to achieve this goal. Based on different road conditions and signals from distance sensors, the vehicle's computer determines changes in body height and then controls the air compressor and exhaust valves to automatically compress or extend the springs, thereby reducing or increasing the ground clearance of the chassis to enhance high-speed stability or off-road capability in complex road conditions.
The suspension system of the Prado is quite interesting. Its front wheels indeed feature independent suspension, which can handle bumps independently, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride, especially when turning in urban areas or on highways, reducing body sway. The rear wheels, however, use a non-independent suspension based on a solid axle, designed to enhance off-road capability, making it more durable when climbing or on rough terrain, with less body sway and higher safety. I've heard from fellow car enthusiasts that this combination performs exceptionally well in off-road environments, being more robust than SUVs with fully independent suspension. The downside is that the rear suspension can be slightly stiff on bumpy roads, potentially affecting comfort; also, the rear axle requires attention to rust issues during maintenance, with regular checks to extend its lifespan. If you want to improve it, you can add aftermarket shock absorber kits, but make sure to choose reputable brands to ensure safety.
