What is the reason for the relatively stiff suspension of the Volkswagen T-Roc?
3 Answers
For vehicles with non-independent suspension, most tend to be softer. However, due to significant body roll during cornering, reducing roll requires a stiffer suspension. Function of shock absorbers: Shock absorbers are used to dampen the oscillations from the spring's rebound after absorbing shocks and impacts from the road surface. Application of shock absorbers: Shock absorbers are widely used in automobiles to accelerate the attenuation of vibrations in the frame and body, thereby improving the ride comfort. When driving on uneven roads, although the suspension springs can filter out road vibrations, the springs themselves still undergo reciprocating motion. The shock absorber is designed to suppress this reciprocating motion of the springs.
I think the Volkswagen T-Roc's suspension feels a bit stiff mainly because the vehicle's design emphasizes handling and stability, which aligns with my usual experience driving this type of SUV. Volkswagen positions the T-Roc as a sporty SUV, and the firmer suspension tuning is intended to reduce body roll during high-speed driving or cornering, giving you a more stable feel—especially on mountain roads or uneven surfaces where it won't sway too much. Additionally, the T-Roc has a relatively high ground clearance, requiring stronger support to handle bumpy roads, and higher tire pressure can also make the suspension feel more pronounced. The trade-off, however, is a slight reduction in comfort on smooth city roads, with more noticeable body movement. I recommend checking if the tire pressure is normal; if it's too high, releasing some air can improve ride comfort. Overall, this isn't a malfunction but rather the manufacturer's tuning strategy, catering to drivers who prioritize handling.
When driving my Volkswagen T-Roc, I find the suspension feels somewhat stiff, which might be related to the factory settings or my daily driving habits. As a frequent city commuter, I appreciate the quick response of a firm suspension during acceleration and braking, but it can be a bit bumpy over speed bumps or rough roads. Common reasons include the type of tires—for instance, the sporty tires that come standard on the T-Roc tend to transmit more vibrations—and the suspension springs' rigid design, which leans toward durability. The impact is more noticeable with heavier loads or on poor road conditions, increasing the burden on the suspension. During routine maintenance, I've noticed the shock absorbers aren't worn out, so it's likely the factory tuning. If you prefer a softer ride, you could try switching to comfort-oriented tires or have a professional shop fine-tune the suspension. This design also has its advantages, such as improved safety and stability in rainy conditions.
