semitrailing

Semi-trailing is a type of rear suspension geometry used in some vehicles, primarily in automobiles. It is characterized by suspension arms that are positioned at an angle to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. This angling allows the wheel to trail behind the pivot point of the suspension arm as it moves through its travel. This trailing action is a key feature that distinguishes it from other independent rear suspension designs.

The semi-trailing arm suspension offers a balance of ride comfort and handling characteristics. It generally provides a more comfortable ride than some other suspension types due to its ability to absorb bumps effectively. In terms of handling, it can offer good stability, particularly during acceleration and braking. However, it can also exhibit undesirable characteristics like significant camber change during suspension travel and toe changes under lateral load, which can affect cornering grip and tire wear.

This type of suspension was popular in many rear-wheel-drive cars from the 1960s through the 1980s. Examples include many European sedans and sports cars of that era. While less common in modern passenger vehicles, which often favor multi-link or MacPherson strut designs for their greater design flexibility and more predictable handling, semi-trailing arm suspensions can still be found in some niche applications or older vehicle designs. The design requires careful tuning to mitigate its inherent drawbacks.