This is my first post here, hi to everyone!
I'm looking at getting myself 2013-2015 XFR(S) and have one problem hopefully you can help me with.

Due to where I live, it will be a long trip to test drive this car and verify if it isn't too hard on my back in normal, everyday driving. Can anyone advise me on what to compare the XFR(S) suspension to before I decide to travel for an actual test drive?

I've owned a 2012 Insignia OPC V6 and it could be the suspension benchmark for me. Normal mode was perfect for day-to-day usage, while the OPC mode stiffened the suspension for sport driving, but I know I wouldn't be able to stand it for more than 1hrs or so.
I've also driven a recent Civic Type-R - I know this one was too hard for me.

Any hints on where does the XFR-S suspension sit vs the two cars I drove?

Thanks!

 

Handling and ride and such are very subjective determinations, no? the overall wight and wheelbase of a 4 door sedan vs. a 2 door hatch are quite different. i don't have an R-S, but i do have similar suspension and need for my back to feel well after sitting in a vehicle seat for a while. my xf s/c seats are very comfortable for long periods of driving and quite adjustable to my liking. I'd say the suspension soaks up bumps quite nicely. I've not driven the civic-R hatchback, but it's not the same type of vehicle.. jag's suspension is more mature for soaking up bumps as opposed to the boy racer civic-R. jag sedan is more grand tourer. dynamic mode allows for suspension sharpening, but regular mode is just that. make sure the more sculpted seats of the R-S are going to be adequate for you - that may be problematic.

 

Sure thing, I guess comparing vs the Insignia OPC would be more reliable then. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

 

The XFR can be very comfortable or full Paul Tracy.

 

I have zero complaints, personally, about the XFR suspension; it is a miracle of handling and comfort. I have taken some very long road trips and never thought once that the suspension/ride was too much of anything.

 

The RS does have a unique suspension (yes, different than R) and if I don't drive it for a few days I notice it's "stiff" never soft. But down most roads it's pretty gentle and unnoticeable. In comparison, a BMW M3 I drove beat me to death in a very short distance.. It's nothing like that.

 

Thank you all. It looks it is worth the trip to try driving these beasts

 

You should definitely try it. I know the SC and XFR have a slightly different suspension than the R-S. But I use my SC daily. Did an 8 hr drive yesterday and 5 hrs the day before. Was very relaxed and comfortable when I arrived

But so subjective you have to try it for yourself

Had a Volvo V70R before than and found the suspension incredibly hard and quite uncomfortable.