Thanks for the reply, yes I suspected that they should 50s and not 45s based on the tyre pressure placard, it’s just what it had on it when I got it. They are also 84 so that’s ok, just wondering how much difference 50 profile over the 45s, I think the suspension is ultimately the problem I was just thinking smaller wheels would be a cheap way to softer suspension.
Hi, standard size tyres on factory 16's would be 185/50/16 81V but they are a very expensive tyre size to buy as they are only made in very small quantities due to being used on just a few vehicles which pushes the manufacture price up and obviously end cost to the consumer.
You should never downsize tyre sizes on an A2 in my opinion as the ride becomes even more harsh, as you're experiencing and it also makes your Speedo under-read more than it does as standard (normally 3-4mph) so your thinking is correct that the smaller the rim you go, the bigger or deeper/taller the sidewall will be to achieve the same rolling circumference, meaning more comfort.
You can fit most A1 or mk1 TT wheels to an A2 but especially in the case of the TT you will have to change the tyres as the standard TT size tyres are too big for the A2 and can cause fouling, the A1's you can normally get away with and although slightly oversized, just bolt straight on.
If you want to keep original, there are a couple of factory A2 design 15" wheels that take a 175/60/15 tyre size as standard but you can also upsize this to 175/65/15 or use 185/60/15 but personally only on a 6j width which only the optional 15" 6 spoke design SE wheel was, the standard wheels are 5.5j and very lightweight and ride superbly.
A lot of people also use the Pepperpot design from the mk1 A3 8L which is also very lightweight and a 6j 15" et38 wheel that wears the 185/60/15 perfectly but can also use the 175's too.
Just to mention if you went the mk1 TT 16" route they are a 7j width with a lower offset of ET31 which enable you to use a 205/50/16 oversized tyre for excellent traction and comfort without fouling.
Hope this helps a little and please check anything before buying to avoid a potentially expensive mistake.
Wheels must be a 5x100 fitment btw