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Can I improve the ride quality in my Jaguar XF 2.2D by changing the wheels and tyres?

I replaced my Jaguar XF 3.0 D with a Jaguar XF 2.2 D in January this year and originally thought that the much 'harsher' ride was due to the 'newness'. 5000 miles later I don't think it is. I can see that the lighter, smaller engine may play a part, but from reading your advice column it is clear that the wheel and tyre size may be the main culprit. The current tyres are Pirelli 245/45 ZR18 DOT XT 4J J759 1212. Can I get back to the degree of comfort I had before just by changing tyres, and if so, to what? Or will it have to be the wheels as well, and is there anything else that the dealers could do by 'tweaking' the suspension?

Asked on 10 August 2013 by GL, Wigan

Answered by Honest John
Had the 2.2 been on 20-inch wheels, I'd have recommended going down to 18s. As it's already on 18s, all I can offer is go down to 17-inch wheels with 235/55 R17 tyres, which is the smallest wheel size for the deepest profile tyres available. An XF 3.0 D must have been on at least 18-inch wheels, but the damper ratings will be different to cope with the heavier engine.
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