would lowering the car by around 1" really make a difference in handling?

 

Yes. As long as you bought quality springs. No Ebay crap!

 

Shocks improved the ride, springs improved the handling.

I put the Monroe Sensatrac shocks and struts on. That made a huge difference in the ride with just the shocks. After my springs came in I did the struts with them. Tein-H springs.

Used to hate the yaw coming on or off the freeway. Much improved with the springs and I like look of 1" or so lower.

 

it will also help make your car look better. haha!

 

^ Definitely true.

 

yes, lowering your xa/xb will improve handling because you are ultimately lowering your center of gravity so you will be able to corner better.

and putting stronger struts on will improve handling response.

 

Lowering springs help slightly but really only support the weight of the car. The xB already has a low center of gravity so a rear sway-bar is the best bang for the buck. I first put my rear bar on when I had the stock springs on and it handled like a go cart.

 

Sure am having fun w/ my S-Techs and swaybar. Thinkin' shocks are on the way. Just do it.....you won't regret it.

 

Monroe now has xB specific struts and shocks just incase.