Introduction

GTIs, Golfs, and Jettas are equipped with a strut-type independent front suspension and a torsion-type rear axle beam with trailing arms. The front suspension struts are integral spring and shock absorber units, while the rear suspension has separate shock absorbers mounted inside coil springs. This type of suspension system is one of the most commonly used systems in contemporary automotive design for the specific reason that it provides excellent steering and handling in a compact size with comparatively light weight.

The front suspension struts have been designed to provide a negative steering roll radius. That is, the steering axis of each strut intersects the road surface at a point outboard of the wheel's vertical centerline. This suspension geometry tends to steer the car automatically in the direction of a skid caused by unequal front wheel traction. Conventional front suspension geometry, which places the steering axes inboard of the tire centerlines, tends to steer the car in the opposite direction, thereby increasing the severity of the skid.

The rear suspension has been designed for low unsprung weight, easy replacement of springs and shock absorbers, and good ride and handling qualities. The main axle beam is somewhat flexible. Uneven rear suspension loads cause the axle beam to twist slightly, thus acting as a stabilizer bar. This suspension design yields many desired performance benefits which are otherwise only available from more complicated and expensive kinds of independent suspension.

The steering uses a rack and pinion steering gear with tie rods connecting to the front suspension to minimize weight and space requirements. The steering column is connected to the steering gear by a universal joint shaft. The universal joint shaft is angled in order to prevent collision impacts from forcing the steering wheel toward the driver.