Save to change 15" for 17" wheels?

Well, I was in the opposite. I wanted very much 15", and could not r€ach solar roof level to get that. Had to take 215-17" wheels that lowers both MPG and comfort...and increases tire replacement costs...
Toyota dealers told me it was not possible, each layout has its wheel dimensions referred in the documentation.
The funny thing is...I love the car at the same...

 

Adjust the tire profile appropriately to keep the same overall diameter and it's safe to change to the 17" (or down from 17" to 15"). The suspension is different in the two models, but both will be fine with either wheel. Do make sure the tire you are putting on has at least as high a load rating as the one you are replacing. This will usually mean you can't go to a narrower lighter tire. Which is the only part that -may- be dangerous.
You will have to adjust the tire pressures when you change the tire size (though you could probably "get away" without bothering).

 

questions a & b: No they are not the same, the 17" wheel cars (PriusV in the U.S.) have a different steering motor and a different rack and pinion ratio. This give the 17" wheel cars about one less turn lock to lock on the steering and a slightly larger turning circle, 36 vs 34.2 feet.

question c: Changing the 15" wheels for good quality 17" wheels should not be a problem, just make sure the offset is correct. Also, I would recommend using the same size tires that come standard on the PriusV, 215/45-17. I think if you search this site you may find some have already made the change. I don't know about the warranty question.

http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii...79348-17s-brake-software-steering-system.html
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii...fications/78131-new-17-momo-wheels-tires.html

 

To add to what others have said, I have a Prius V (with 17" wheels), and this week had a non-V loaner with 15" wheels, and the steering was noticeable less responsive. The 17" wheel cars have a more direct steering ratio (which I much prefer, now having driven a 15" wheel Prius for a day). The lock-to-lock is less on the 17" cars, but that's not something you notice--it's just a result of the more direct steering ratio.

 

It's a bit mind boggling that nobody has once to my knowledge expressed any interest in fitting 16" wheels on the 2010 Prius ...

it's always ... 15" or 17", 15" or 17"

Do you know or does anyone around here believe a smidgeon that a 16" wheel would actually hit a very sweet spot lookswise, performancewise and comfortwise on the 2010 Prius?

Does anyone give one darn iota about this?

I call Toyota dealers, asking if Toyota has any option to put a 16" wheel on a II - IV ... no, the 17" wheel ... for $455 per wheel. $2,000 for wheels ... forget it!

I ask salespeople ... do any customers have interest in a wheel option on the Prius? No, that's not what they want the car for. I'd like a car that looks a little bit more balanced.

It kinda stinks when I can see a 2010 Insight EX with a great looking, bare alloy 15" wheel that looks proper on the car .... but it's on an Insight with microsize back seat.

I look at the 2010 Prius, up through the IV with it's bland looking plastic covers over 15's and high profile donuts. Ok, the 50 MPGs is great, but geez, give a little Toyota.

I think a lot of people would give up a mile per gallon and spend and extra $500 or so for OEM 16's ,55 series tires steering upgrade as an option on their III or IV Prius.

Unfortunately, I seriously doubt Toyota will package this as a little more steering fun is not really on the agenda.

Better to wait on the CT200h ... they're talking about some more driving excitement for that car. 44 MPG average would be fine for me. I'll bet it turns up close to that.

 

Hence, why I am getting a V. Absolutely (for me) transforms the overall look of the car.

 

Last time I rented a III, noticed a good bit of wheel turning to turn out of the driveway onto the street. Got used to it after that, but, it's a bit too docile for my taste.

 

The 17 is a good looking wheel. I think it might all look a bit better and ride a tad more comfy with 205/50 - 17" tires which is what is run on a Mazda 3S. I don't know if anyone makes a low resistance 205/50-17" tire.

anyrate, nevermind, the Prius has a torsion beam rear suspension. I'll be glad when Lexus brings out the performance in the upcoming hybrid sportback.