Different MPG with 17" vs 15" Rims GenIII

Darn these noobs. hahaha

 

From what I read good chunk energy goes into heating sidewalls (at least Mich or Bstone were claiming that their new "special" sidewall compound looses less). If this is the case lower profile tires will loose more due to higher degree of flex. 17" tires used in Prius are also wider, which causes more friction at the edge of contact patch.

Wider lower profile tire = higher rolling resistance.

And last but not least people buy bigger tire for better performance, so upgraded wheels more likely end up with performance oriented grippier tire.

 

That's a 5.6% difference.

 

and a 2 year old thread. Still trying to get caught up?

 

Sorry, there's a statute of limitations?

I realize full well the timeline, just thought it was interesting to note.