Are the OEM wheels of the Atenza cast?
2 Answers
Yes. The advantages of wheel upgrades are as follows: 1. Enhanced safety: Wider tires increase the contact area with the ground, improving grip; 2. Better handling: Reduces skidding and floating, making the vehicle more agile and easier to control even in the event of rapid deflation compared to thicker tires; 3. Smoother ride: Tires with a lower aspect ratio reduce tilt during turns; 4. More distinctive style: The broad tread and larger-diameter aluminum alloy wheels enhance the visual impact of the car's appearance, further highlighting a sense of premium value.
As a former owner who drove the Atenza for 3 years, I've taken apart the OEM wheels and seen them clearly. The 19-inch ones are indeed cast, using low-pressure casting technology. Mazda is quite honest about this, unlike some brands that provide steel wheels for entry-level models. Cast wheels feel stable to drive on, and the tire shop owner even mentioned that my OEM wheels never deformed when going over potholes. However, the downside of cast wheels is their weight. Last year, I switched to flow-formed ones, and the acceleration feels much lighter. If your budget allows, I’d recommend going straight for forged wheels—reducing unsprung weight even makes the steering feel more responsive. Keep the OEM ones for winter snow tires; you won’t feel bad about using them.
