First, thanks in advance for this forum and your collective expertise!

Here's what's up:
2016 Ford Edge - Titanium, V6
20" OEM wheels

Compared to other mid-size SUVs I've recently driven as rentals, my 2016 Ford Edge Titanium seems to be wayyyyy behind the others in terms of ride quality. Almost from the beginning, the vehicle has had weird little rattles and a very stiff ride. I'm wondering if the combination of wheel size and tires is causing the problem.

Current wheels: 20"
Current tires: BF Goodrich Advantage Sport, H-rated, with about 20,000 miles on them

It just seems like the Edge feels every little bump in the road and doesn't provide a nice smooth ride on anything other than a freshly-paved road. I've had the car in for regular maintenance, so if there was a suspension problem, I'm quite sure it would have been noticed. It doesn't seem like there's anything obviously wrong with the suspension system.

Is this just the way the Edge performs? Or would moving to 18" wheels with a tire that emphasizes ride comfort be a big upgrade?

Would love any thoughts and opinions!

 

Most vehicles today have "Low Profile tires " on them and they are fine for racing and taking corners fast, but provide no cushion and hence the hard ride.
You might check with a good tire place and see what they might suggest, even though they don't want the responsibility of putting on tires that the vehicle was not certified for.