I would consider driving a CX-5 with 17" wheels to see if it feels better. There is a lot more rubber between the rim and the road with 17's and the ride will naturally be less harsh. Easy enough to try one and buying a set of used wheels is simple if it works for you.

 

While that is logical. My CX5 has 19 inch wheels and gives a good ride. However. Years ago I Had a Peugeot 4007 with 19 inch wheels and low profile tyres (tires). These gave a harsh ride and poor tow characteristics. I changed these for 17 inch and it did help. The CX does not have such low profile. I feel the ride is fine on the same UK roads as the OP. Which I feel are no better or worse than the roads in other European countries with the exception of Spain.


John

 

I guess the best suggestion is to try a 17" equipped version and see for themselves? I have had a 19 and currently a 21. Both had the 19" wheels and to me the CX5 rides quite firmly. If you came from a more softly designed car, I can see the CX5 feeling pretty harsh. Personally, I like a firm ride and that is what I was looking for.

 

I have a 2022 PrPlus with 19” wheels and had the same experience as Riverman99. Part of that was undoubtedly because this was my first SUV (and a smallish one at that). Must point out the ride is smooth as silk on perfect road surfaces but harsher than I want on rough roads (and annoying on New York State’s thump-thump concrete block roads.) I then changed the OEM Toyos to Pirelli P Zeros without much improvement until I measured the air pressure and found that the installer had set it to 38 psi. When I lowered it to 35 psi, ride on rough roads improved noticeably.

I found the seats a bit firmer and a bit narrower than we wanted so I got two RaoTanDang seat cushions on Amazon

 

This discussion is cross Atlantic which may mean we need to consider if Mazda tune their suspension to suit the intended country, it’s roads and driving characteristics as well as the historical expectations of the drivers.

I have no idea if things are now changed, but in the distant past, it was always considered that cars built for the US market had softer suspension than those built for the European market.

John

 

Where did you EVER get that information?? lol

Please provide something empirical in data or information from MAZDA or another model and platform from an auto manufacture comparing US to global sales build specifications. LOL

I saw this post and forwarded to a few friends that are either design engineers or structural engineers in 3 of the biggest auto manufactures and their instant response was, and I quote "ROLMAO" !!
And the usual as to why I waste my time on auto forums. That my response is itsa hobby and entertainment which for today you provided.

 

As I made clear in the post, this is historical information, and I stated that I do not know if it still applies in today’s age. But I did some simple research and the reply from Google AI supports my post.

QUOTE

Yes, car manufacturers often tune suspension differently for various countries, taking into account factors like local driving conditions, regulations, and customer preferences. These differences can range from subtle adjustments to significant variations in spring rates, damper settings, and even the type of suspension system used.

Here's a more detailed look:
Factors Influencing Suspension Tuning:

• Local Climate and Road Conditions:
  Different climates and road qualities necessitate different suspension tuning. For example, countries with rougher roads might require a softer suspension for better ride comfort, while those with smoother roads might favor a firmer setup for better handling.
• Buyer Preferences:
  Different cultures and regions have varying expectations for ride comfort and handling. Some may prefer a softer, more comfortable ride, while others might favor a firmer, sportier feel.
• Regulations:
  Local automotive regulations, such as those related to emissions, safety, and noise levels, can also influence how a vehicle is tuned.
• Market Demand:
  The popularity of different body styles and features can also impact suspension tuning. For example, a country with a high demand for convertibles might have a different suspension setup than one where it's not as popular.
• Historical Trends:
  Historical preferences and trends in a particular country can also play a role in suspension tuning.

Examples of Tuning Differences:

• US vs. Europe:
  American manufacturers have historically favored softer suspensions for a more comfortable ride, while European manufacturers tend to prefer firmer suspensions for better handling.
• Australia:
  Australian buyers often prefer a firmer suspension setup for the local driving conditions and tend to value vehicles that can handle rougher roads Car manufacturers tailor their vehicles for this market.
• Luxury Cars:
  Luxury vehicles, regardless of the region, often have more advanced suspension systems, with an emphasis on reducing noise and vibrations for a smoother ride Dourado Luxury Car reports,.
• Specific Models:
  Some manufacturers may offer different suspension options for the same model, depending on the target market. For example, the Jaguar and Lincoln models may have suspension systems with unique spring rates, dampers, and roll bars, even though they share a common platform.

In essence, car manufacturers strive to create vehicles that are well-suited to the specific needs and preferences of each market they serve. This often involves tailoring the suspension to deliver the optimal balance of ride comfort, handling, and performance for the local driving conditions and buyer expectations.

END QUOTE

Of course, Google AI may be wrong.

I stand by my post though it may or may not apply to all manufacturers. Take engines for example. The range available to US buyers of Mazda cars is very different than that for the UK market.


John

 

Mazda has always stressed that the CX-5 was designed to have a firm suspension for better handling.
Anyone doing due diligence when purchasing a vehicle should be well aware of that fact.
Mazda also uses the same suspension materials for all CX-5 vehicles sold in every country.
It would not make good business sense to stock multiple part numbers for every region the vehicle is built and or sold in.
There are a host of aftermarket suspension parts to attain whatever "suspension feel" you wish to have.
Once again, anyone who doesn't want a firm ride, should not purchase a Mazda CX-5.

 

 

FYI:
Not to "lecture" but rudeness is often a matter of perception. I too am retired and have a host of degrees and certifications, but they are fairly meaningless when the discussion topic is Mazda CX-5 ownership, which is why I don't promote them here. Engineering, lecturing and department head are wonderful achievements, but they are rarely looked upon by members as the presenter may intend, especially in an automotive forum. As say compared to a person qualified/certified with years of experience in maintenance of motor vehicles. Of which very few are endowed with dissertation level language skills and have no reason to be.