How Acura’s Active Damper System Improves Your Drive
Smooth, confident, and composed – that’s how every drive should feel. And when you’re behind the wheel of a performance-focused Acura, it does. One reason? Acura’s Active Damper System. Whether you’re carving up a winding backroad or navigating Kansas City traffic, this advanced suspension system knows exactly how to keep things balanced, comfortable, and under control. So what is the Acura Active Damper System, how does it work, and why should you care? Let’s break it down.
First, What Is the Active Damper System?
In simple terms, the Active Damper System (ADS) is Acura’s intelligent suspension technology that automatically adjusts your vehicle’s shock absorbers in real time. These tiny adjustments help your car react to the road beneath it, keeping the ride stable whether you’re cruising or cornering.
Instead of relying on a fixed suspension setup like most cars, Acura’s system uses sensors and electronically controlled dampers that continuously tweak the suspension stiffness depending on your speed, driving style, and road conditions. The result? A ride that can be soft and smooth when you want comfort, or tight and responsive when you’re ready for a sportier feel.
How It Works Behind the Scenes
Here’s a little peek at the tech magic happening under your Acura:
- Sensors track what’s happening – They monitor everything from wheel movement and acceleration to steering input and body motion.
- Electronic dampers respond instantly – Based on sensor data, the system adjusts the firmness of each shock absorber individually—up to 500 times per second.
- Drive modes customize your feel – Using Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System, you can select from modes like Comfort, Sport, or even Sport+, depending on your model. Each setting changes how the dampers behave, so you get the exact feel you’re looking for.
Whether you want a plush, cloud-like ride or something that grips the road like a racecar, ADS makes it happen with the turn of a dial.
Why It Matters to You
Now let’s talk real-life benefits. What’s the big deal about all this tech? Here’s how it actually improves your drive:
1. Better Comfort Over Rough Roads
Kansas City roads can be… unpredictable. Potholes, cracks, uneven pavement – you name it. The Active Damper System helps smooth out those harsh bumps, reducing vibrations and keeping passengers happy, no matter what the street throws at you.
2. More Precise Handling
If you love driving (or just like being in control), you’ll appreciate how ADS sharpens your car’s cornering ability. By firming up the suspension during fast turns, it helps reduce body roll and keeps the vehicle flat through curves.
3. Increased Stability at High Speeds
Hitting the highway? The system adapts to higher speeds by stiffening the suspension, which gives you a more connected feel to the road and more confidence behind the wheel.
4. Custom Drive Modes for Any Mood
One of the coolest things about ADS is how customizable it is. Want to relax after a long day? Hit Comfort mode. Feeling sporty? Switch to Sport or Sport+. It’s like getting two (or three) different cars in one.
Which Acura Models Feature It?
You’ll find the Acura Active Damper System on several models, especially those in the performance tier:
- Acura TLX Type S
- Acura MDX Type S
- Acura Integra A-Spec with Technology Package (manual transmission)
Each of these blends performance and luxury, and the ADS adds a layer of adaptability that elevates the entire driving experience.
Ready for a Smarter, Smoother Ride?
The best way to understand how the Acura Active Damper System works is to feel it for yourself. Whether you’re curious about the difference between drive modes or just want to see how smooth your daily drive can really be, we’ve got you covered.
Stop by Acura of Overland Park and test drive an Acura with the Active Damper System today. Our team will walk you through how it works and let you feel the difference on the road. Come see us, or schedule your visit online. One smooth ride is all it takes to fall in love with Acura.
