KW V3 thoughts

[Tulsadetail]

I am about to install a KW V3 system and would like to get some feedback on the ride quality vs factory. I know it is going to be more aggressive but, how much more aggressive. Installing 20 inch wheels as well so I know that it is gong to change the ride also. Just not sure if I should spend the money on just springs vs whole system. Thanks for your input.

[Nitrous Garage]

The ride is going to change quite a bit. It will be different from car to car on exact setup. The V3 coilovers are fully adjustable so you can dial in how you want it to ride. But it will be considerable more aggressive feeling. If you have the funds go with coilovers hands down

Which wheels are you looking at getting?

[Tulsadetail]

I went with Avant wheels. Unfortunately I live in Tulsa Ok and they suck at taking care of the roads here. Pretty bad winter so roads are filled with major pot holes. Didn't want to drop a good chunk on some wheel that will more than likely get torn up.

[Tulsadetail]

A friend of mine has a C63 coupe and I hope it isn't that aggressive.

[Bob MG]

KW ride is better than oem

Firm but not aggressive

[Vossen wheels]

Great Choice with the KW V3s. Dial it in right with propper alignment and you are going to love the ride. Good luck

[mastek]

This KWV3 kit has been quite impressive for this F10M5 application.
But it does need proper ride height, corner balance and alignment for best results.
After some intense suspension tweaking and 5,000 miles ...my kit is very comfortable and compliant over rough surfaces on the streets.
And now handles like an e92m3. Feels 1000 lbs. lighter.

Be aware, If you have this car too low (especially up front) and/or not aligned and/or not corner balanced, you can suffer from bad car handling dynamics and reduced traction under acceleration.
The alignment and corner balance is simple....however, the ride height is tricky, as there is no standard. People want it low so it looks good, but they inadvertently compromise handling and alignment specs. You have to trial & error.....or use my specs.... or someone else's specs that has taken the time to do this.
I adjusted the suspension in this order:
- corner balance
- alignment
- ride height (raise each corner the same height to keep corner balance)
- alignment (again, since ride height changes camber and toe)
- ride height (higher)
- alignment
After this, the car rides comfortable, handles like a 3600 lbs. M car and looks better then OE ride height.

Great kit. Just needs proper calibration to this chassis.
Many people just slap on coilovers and then either praise or complain without proper calibration. Some people install coilovers so they can have the "slammed" look.
The rebound and compression settings are another factor, but more towards ride comfort rather then a dramatic change in handling.