I'm looking at a 2015 Q5 and am confused about the Adaptive Damping Suspension (1BL) option. The dealer says it only makes the suspension more firm, but posts here seem to suggest that depending on the Audi Select settings, it's either softer or firmer than the default suspension. There seems to be almost zero official information about how this feature works so I was hoping for some clarification.

Cheers,
Jeff

 

Just to add to this question, I am also curious if this would be a worthwhile addition if you plan on ordering the sport package and Nav package already contaning Audi Drive Select. I am unclear as to how suspension will be affected differently with the $850 addition of the Damping Suspension. I'm finding that in general sales staff know very little about the cars they are selling.

Thanks in advance.

Peter

 

I have the Q5 with drive select, I do not know how it works technically. All I can say it has great handling in the sportier mode, Mike

 

After a little research I have the definitive answer on this topic. Aside from their air suspension, Audi uses two types of Adaptive suspensions: "Magneto-rheological" (referred to as "Audi Magnetic Ride") and "Electronic". The former is technologically superior due to a an adaptive damping function that does not involve moving parts, making it close to instantaneous in its adaptation to road conditions. The Q5 option uses the latter, which relies on the opening and closing of valves inside the actual shock piston. Given the fact that this option is only $900.00 this is not surprising.

On its own the Drive Select interface has no ability to alter suspension characteristics. However, paired with the Adaptive Damping option it offers three suspension settings.

Cheers.

 

Thanks for all of your help. I pulled a trigger on a Q5 two weeks ago with the adaptive dampning. Waiting until July for it to arrive from the factory.

 

Hi- need some advise please
Re the Adaptive Dampening Suspension option 1BL- any problems with it ?
Is it a future maintenance item?

 

I do not know how it works technically. All I can say it has great handling in the sportier mode