Shock and wheel enhancement: what are my optimal choices?

[another_clean_sheet]

Another subject is the enhancement of ride quality. I utilised the search function but preferred to finalise it within a single thread here.
I possess a 2023 CX60 PHEV Homura version. I have already received the shock replacement from my Mazda dealer, or so they assert.


My objective is to enhance ride quality: improved suspension, increased ride comfort, and superior handling.
To accomplish this: suspension enhancement plus wheel and tyre enhancement.

Suspension:
I have reviewed the Koni shocks and dampers (both front and rear) and observed a range of opinions. I am enquiring about alternative choices that can be customised to my preferences, rather than the non-adjustable prebuilt Koni shocks.
Are additional springs necessary or unnecessary?

I intend to replace my original equipment manufacturer 20-inch wheels with Toyo tires with 18-inch wheels using a more comfortable tire. Has anyone experienced the transition to a lower wheel size and its impact on ride quality?


Any other suggestions would be greatly valued!
Thank you

[mrnobady]

My 2023 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle is equipped with Koni shocks and H&R springs. The car no longer features a gelatin suspension, preventing rear seat passengers and cargo in the boot from being jostled over speed bumps. However, it is far from pleasant; the intensity of each road bump is significantly greater than that of any other Mazda I have driven. The suspension is rigid, potentially excessive for certain individuals. However, I still prefer it in comparison to Gelly "E" factory shocks. Driving on smooth roads is quite pleasurable. Cornering and braking present no issues whatsoever.

I initially had 18-inch wheels with Toyo tires but upgraded to 20-inch wheels with Bridgestone tires solely for aesthetic purposes. Bridgestone tires are much subpar. On 18-inch wheels, the Koni's provide a significantly superior ride compared to 20-inch wheels with the aforementioned tires—resulting in a quieter and more comfortable experience. I have now updated to 20" front wheels equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires, and I immediately notice the difference. More subdued, gentler, and superior.


Your options are limited in this situation. Aftermarket items are exclusively Koni for shock absorbers and Eibach alongside H&R for springs. That is all. Some Japanese items exist; however, they do not officially support PHEVs. It was not a year ago.

Additionally, there is an air suspension option available for a substantial cost, which can effectively resolve the suspension problem. HERE

An alternative is the Mazda springs and shocks from the 2025 model. Mazda asserts that they are incompatible, however that is erroneous. Conduct a test drive of the 2025 PHEV; if it meets your approval, record its VIN (preferably a newer model) and proceed to the dealership to purchase the whole set of the latest shocks and springs. You will receive the same ride as the 2025 model.

[ENVIOclev]

Since I desired a comfortable ride, my upgrade has consistently included 18" wheels with Michelin tires and a pressure of 2.2 bar, which is the manufacturer's recommended specification. It offers superior ride quality compared to the model I evaluated at the dealership prior to purchase. The RWD variant features considerably less unsprung mass in the wheel suspension and is engineered with lower stiffness (lacking a front drivetrain/differential and rear cross stabiliser), enhancing ride quality and establishing it as my preferred option. My personal experience with automobiles has taught me to never accept tires with a sidewall height of less than 60%.

[another_clean_sheet]

Is the diesel model exclusively rear-wheel drive? Are the other PHEVs all-wheel drive, namely rear-wheel drive in their base configuration but with front-wheel drive assistance when necessary?

[Black_raven]

Simply acquire an additional vehicle. Achieving satisfactory ride quality with the CX60 is unattainable; I have experienced this myself and have exhausted all options, now liberated from the ordeal.

[another_clean_sheet]

If I had unlimited funds, I would likely do so. At present, I am unable to substantiate the expenses associated with it, regrettably.

[Black_raven]

I comprehend the dilemma; I experienced it as well.

The F damper shocks were superior to the Koni's for my preferences; yet, despite the original shocks' excessive bobbing, they provided greater comfort, whereas the F's are more rigid. Overall, all were subpar; however, the Koni's effectively mitigated the bouncing.


The issue lies not just with the shocks but also with the spring weightings. I stated this three years ago, and now Mazda has reduced the spring weights on the new 2025 vehicles.

It may be more advantageous to obtain a VIN from a 2025 model and acquire all the suspension components from that model to install on your 2023 vehicle. All components are compatible; I would recommend this prior to investing in alternative aftermarket options. Transitioning to an 18" wheel equipped with a Michelin CrossClimate tire will be beneficial; but, it will remain costly.

I would recommend procuring 18" forged wheels instead of the inexpensive and heavy cast Mazda variants, as this would decrease unsprung weight on the hub, hence providing significant benefits.

[another_clean_sheet]

I will investigate which aftermarket rims are forged and which are cast. Numerous aftermarket alternatives exist.
Thank you for the advice regarding the springs; I will investigate more. Do you know if there is an official online parts page for Mazda?

[another_clean_sheet]

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