High-Performance Suspension
The starting point of a high-performance suspension is not the design of the assembly, as one might think, but rather an ultra-rigid frame, which forms the foundation of a suspension offering the perfect blend of handling, comfort, and control.
Once the rubber grips the asphalt, the level of sophistication of the suspension is the factor that determines the quality of the ride and handling. The ultimate goal is to keep all four wheels firmly planted on the ground to optimize power delivery, ride comfort, and control at all times.
Long-Travel Design for Enhanced Control
The four-wheel independent suspension was originally designed and refined over decades of motorsport competition. Its design includes lightweight components and ensures that each drive wheel is attached to a drive shaft by its own axle, allowing for independent movement and reducing the angle needed to absorb bumps and maintain tire contact on uneven surfaces. This promotes a higher level of comfort, safety, stability, and control. The axles are of equal length, eliminating torque steer, reducing distortion and binding on the CV joints, and improving component efficiency and durability.
MacPherson Struts at the Front for Sharper Handling
The front MacPherson strut suspension of Subaru is significantly stiffer than traditional strut systems, reducing levels of noise, vibration, and harshness, and more importantly, producing superior handling. This design is reinforced by the subframe mounting, which also enhances steering response. It includes an L-shaped lower arm, which helps reduce the turning circle and improve maneuverability. On performance models, this suspension arm is made of aluminum to reduce unsprung weight and provide even more precise handling. All vehicles feature a wide track, contributing to overall stability.
Double Wishbone Rear for Superior Ride Comfort
The rear double wishbone suspension dominates bumpy roads and negotiates hairpin turns with serene calm, ensuring maximum tire grip while isolating occupants from harshness. This suspension design ensures more stable, comfortable, and poised behavior, as it allows better control of the inner and outer tilt of the rear wheels in corners. Additionally, the rear double wishbone suspension benefits from a flatter and more compact profile, so the components do not encroach into the cargo area, increasing usable space for the most adventurous explorers.
