Adaptive suspension (often called semi-active suspension) focuses on adjusting shock dampening. The shock absorbers are filled with specialized magneto-rheological fluid containing tiny iron particles. When an electrical current is applied to an electromagnet inside the shock piston, the iron particles align, instantly thickening the fluid. This stiffens the shock. By changing the electrical current, the computer can switch from soft comfort mode to stiff sport mode in milliseconds.
Other adaptive systems use electronic solenoid valves to restrict oil flow inside the shock body. These systems are simpler than full active suspensions because they still rely on standard steel springs. However, replacement shocks are still expensive compared to standard passive units.