[Josh27]

Ordered my white sri 136 diesel at the begining of feb for delivery end of march. Does the 2016.5 changes affect the car dramatically and how noticeable are they?

Cheers

 

[UKtekkie]

See this thread.

I think it's difficult to judge the difference without driving or even owning both My2016 and MY2016.5 models. The rear suspension Watts linkage has been removed on all but the top spec engines (1.6i etc) and it seems some soundproofing has been removed too.

The general consensus seems to be it was a cost saving exercise that has made a small but perhaps not insignificant difference.

 

[nsanderson]

I test drove a MY 2016 and my SRi is a MY 2016.5. Can't say I've noticed any difference really as the 1.4T is so quiet anyway and the ride/handling is still superb.

 

[SwissTJ]

I've also drive both and would be hard-pressed to notice a difference in either handling or noise. Maybe at 10/10 sideways round a corner in Road-Tester-Land it would be more obvious.

 

[Mondy]

In handling is not really much difference. Most obvious will be on highway and on bad roads. Watts link adds 3rd point so it stabilizes the rear axle, so it can use softer bushings. And that means less noise and vibrations from irregularities on the road.

 

[gunswills]

As I understand it I have a my16.5 , I've with no watts link , I often use back roads for work , but noticed even though the steering is smooth the handling is terrible , so I am dropping tyre pressure to around 35 from 42-43 , will let you know

 

[nsanderson]

42-43 is WAY too high!

Mine was still set at ECO/transportation pressure when I got it. I've now dropped the pressures to 32 psi all round as the handbook states and the ride, handling and steering are much, much better.

 

[gunswills]

Lowered to 35 all round today and fair play it transformed the car