Suspension and control systems

On cars of both platforms GMT800 and GMT900, the front suspension, one might say, does not differ. On models of the light series 1500, as a rule, the front suspension is spring. On models of the heavy series - torsion bar. Of course, 1500 series 2WD models are extremely rare for our market, so springs are rarely mentioned. On the new platform, spring suspension is also found on all-wheel drive models, but again, the light 1500 series.

Torsion suspension

spring suspension

Rear suspension spring or spring, depending on the series of the car. There were no cardinal changes between GMT800 and 900.

Also, both generations are equipped with systems for changing the stiffness of shock absorbers (ESC - Electronic Suspension Control) and body support system (ALC - Automatic Level Control).


The ALC system only monitors the height of the rear of the vehicle, although the body height sensors are installed on the front suspension, but are used exclusively by the ESC system. Moreover, it is structurally made in «american style» without any separate pneumatic cylinders and chambers. Pneumatic cylinders or chambers are made in the shock absorbers themselves.

The system resembles a height adjustment system that can change the height based on driver preference and vehicle speed.

The ALC system only maintains the height of the rear end depending on the vehicle load (passengers, cargo) and when towing a trailer. It does not take into account the speed of movement. Fully automatic, the driver cannot change the operating mode.



The ESC system uses the compressor and sensors of the ALC system, as if installed «over». Both systems are fully automatic and there are no toggle buttons. Indicators on the instrument cluster may indicate the presence of systems. The ESC system constantly maintains the stiffness of the shock absorbers at the level set by the manufacturer, depending on many factors. The input for this system is the following data:

• vehicle speed;
• steering wheel position;
• body height;
• ALC system status;
• using trailer towing mode.

You can call the system not a system for changing the stiffness of shock absorbers, but a system for maintaining the characteristics of shock absorbers at a level set by the manufacturer. It remains to be hoped that when a certain speed is reached «the suspension will go into sport mode».

Depending on the configuration, either one or both systems can be installed. So on Escalade models, as on models of a more prestigious class, both systems are usually installed. It is also worth noting the lack of unambiguous terminology of the GM concern - there is a designation of the system for changing the stiffness of shock absorbers as RSS (Road Sensing Suspension).