How to negotiate CX-5 17" to 19" wheel upgrade when purchasing a new vehicle?

[MikeM.]

Well of course the OP doesn't have to buy a larger/non oem spec wheel, I'm just saying if he is/was willing to pay $300 a wheel, and he wasn't bent on the OEM wheel style that he might find something lighter or the same weight as, possible more to his liking for that price or less.

I agree. I was just adding a potential $0 cost possibility to get the wheels he wanted. Worth a try.

He has some minor mods (including a JBR rear sway bar) and posts a good amount of wilderness shots so I'd say they have not affected the utility of his car for his needs.

A stiffer anti-roll bar will ALWAYS reduce performance on rough backcountry roads. Some destinations in my area are not possible with a sedan (unless you want to hike a few miles). Whether it affects the utility of your vehicle depends on how challenging your roads are. If you're talking camping at Yosemite, no change in utility. If you're talking taking a summer outing to Twin Lakes in the North Cascades, yes, a stiffer anti-sway bar would significantly reduce performance and increase your chances of not being able to make it, particularly if it were wet.

 

[fdew]

I see your on the left cost, but anyone near Rochester NY who wants to trade 17s for 19S let me know. I have a nice set of 2014 19s. Haven't been used in the winter. They are off the car now so lets trade.

Frank