Nissan has revised the Multi-Link Beam rear suspension fitted to the new Maxima for even better ride and handling.

Launched with the now superseded A32 model Maxima, Multi-Link Beam rear suspension as fitted to the new model (code-named A33) has the lateral link located behind the torsion beam - the old model had it located in front — which improves compliance steering characteristics for greater stability.

This design combines the best attributes of a linkage system and a beam axle for great stability in cornering and braking. It combines a composite linkage with a lightweight, compact torsion beam constructed from high tensile sheet steel and shaped like an inverted 'U'.

Multi-Link Beam suspension displays high fiexural rigidity against both lateral and vertical force inputs, but at the same time twists pliantly to accommodate the vertical travel of each wheel.

The system minimises scuff change and jacking of the rear wheels under load (a common problem with the rear wheels of front-wheel-drive vehicles) to ensure they remain close to perpendicular to the road for enhanced braking and cornering performance.

By keeping the rear tyres close to perpendicular to the road, the Multi-Link Beam suspension allows the tyres to deliver maximum gripping force. This in turn allows the front suspension to be tuned for better grip — which reduces the characteristic front-wheel-drive understeer.

Moreover, because the tyres are kept close to perpendicular to the road, the suspension can be tuned to provide a higher degree of ride comfort without compromising high-speed handling.

The innovative composite linkage consists of a lateral link and control rod. One end of the lateral link is mounted to the body by a bushing. The other end is mounted to the torsion beam via a special bushing which is stiff vertically but pliant laterally. The lateral link and torsion beam are also connected through the control rod.

Compared to the previous generation Maxima, the new A33 model's rear suspension sees the lateral link relocated behind the torsion beam, the lateral link bushing is more rigid, a brace has been fitted for the rear shock absorber mounting and the trailing arm bushings are fluid filled.

This arrangement gives the suspension ample lateral stiffness. At the point where it is attached to the body, the lateral link always moves only vertically (relative to the beam), enabling the tyres to move vertically in relation to the body.

In addition, with the Multi-Link Beam suspension, the roll centre is close to the point where the lateral link is mounted to the body. This means there is virtually no change in the distance between the roll centre and the vehicle's centre of gravity. As a result, the Maxima displays great stability — even under a full load — without any significant increase in body roll.

Springs and shock absorbers have been mounted as close as possible to the wheel centres, which provides improved leverage against body roll.

The adoption of Multi-Link Beam design allows the fitment of smaller diameter, shorter length shock absorbers than conventional parallel link strut designs because they do not have to do as much work against lateral force inputs. Smaller size in these components translates into better packaging efficiency and more interior space. In addition, rubber bushings are incorporated in both the upper and lower shock mounts for improved isolation of road noise.

Nissan's Multi-Link Beam rear suspension delivers the following real world benefits: