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Independent suspension:
Independent suspension means that each wheel has its own suspension. This means that each wheel has its own control arm and each wheel can independently compress. The control arms are attached to the subframe, also known as a rear axle carrier. Vehicles with a solid rear axle or a semi-independent rear axle therefore do not have control arms or a subframe at the rear. It is more expensive to produce because it contains more materials, but the 2 major advantages are: Better road handling and improved comfort. Newer cars are increasingly equipped with independent suspension.
In the image below, you can see the rear axle of a car with independent (rear) suspension.
On the left and right sides, the coil springs are actually mounted on the control arms, but they are not visible in the image.
Control arms 8 and reaction control arms 4 and 5 move with the wheel as it compresses or extends. The compression or extension of the left side does not affect the compressing and extending on the right side. For instance, the left may be fully compressed while the right side remains in the neutral position. In a solid or semi-independent rear axle, the left and right sides are connected. When the left wheel compresses, it also affects the suspension travel of the right wheel, and vice versa.
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