This work deals with a study on the semi-active suspension systems used for motor vehicles, with focus on the devices that control the suspension damping. Several representative types of semi-active devices are presented and then analyzed comparatively using a multicriteria method based on the FRISCO formula. Specific control techniques are then discussed, emphasizing the application field and their limitations. A novel control strategy is proposed with the aim to improve the dynamic behaviour of the vehicle. The mechatronic model of the semi-active suspension (which integrates mechanical and control components) was carried out and simulated in a virtual environment by using MBS (Multi-Body Systems) and DFC (Design for Control) software solutions, namely ADAMS and EASY5 of MSC Software.