Ride differences 24 vs 25

[MB1]

Hey all - I test drove a 24 5BW manual with the diamond pattern seats and a 25 BW auto with base seats. I first took out the 25 auto with base seats and when I drove the 24 manual with diamond seats I found the ride itself to be vastly different. The 24 was much more firm and rode more like a sportscar (which I liked) and the 25 was much more subdued. I had them both in sport mode. I'm thinking going with an auto but like a sporty ride that the 24 seemed to deliver much more so.

Without the precision package, does anyone know if there were changes made to the suspension that would be overly apparent on the 25? Maybe a different calibration due to it being an auto? Doubt it but thought I'd ask. It was immediately obvious taking it off the lot.

Second if I go with an automatic on the new car, I noticed that it has a different steering wheel now. Any way to change the wheel to the same alcantara one that comes with the manual? Not sure if anyone has done that or not.

 

[1Evil55]

Were the suspension settings both set the same? There is a very noticeable difference when set differently. No changes in suspension.

 

[jbawden]

Alcantara wheel (and other bits) is an option, not connected to the transmission choice...there is no choice, give me manual or give me death!

No changes to suspension between model years or options outside of the precision package, but then that wasn't an option in 2024. If you're 100% sure the settings were identical, the only thing I can think is the base seats are more "old Cadillac" and may not transfer the road feel as much as the proper seats in the '24.