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Tire size upgrade for OEM 17 wheels

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by mroadster2k, Aug 17, 2013.

  1. mroadster2k

    mroadster2k A little bit of awesomeness

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    Hey guys, I've spent the past few days searching the forum, but for the life of me I couldn't find any info on 215/50-17 tires as an upgrade to the 45 profile tires. I found a set of V wheels for my IV, and need to find the right tire size for it. I am split between the Energy Saver A/S and the Ecopias, but I was considering going with 215/50-17 instead of the suggested 205/50-17.

    Would there be much of a difference in terms of performance and MPG hit, compared to the stock 15s? I could live with a reasonable drop in MPG. Also, I know that the larger profile will close fender gap a bit. I am not planning (yet) on lowering the car.

    Which size would you all suggest? I'd appreciate the feedback...
     
    #1 mroadster2k, Aug 17, 2013
  2. 32kcolors

    32kcolors Senior Member

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    Does the stock Five look funky to you? If not, that's what your car would look like if you were to fit them with 215/45-17 tires. I average 48-50 mpg with a little bit of pulse and gliding thrown in, but it'll depend on your driving conditions and routes taken.

    At least one member has posted pics of 215/50-17 but the tire sidewall looked too fat to me. You need to strike a balance between closing the fender gap and avoiding having too fat tires and I'd stick with 205/50-17 at most. The narrower tread should in theory also help with fuel economy.
     
    #2 32kcolors, Aug 18, 2013
  3. tankyuong

    tankyuong Senior Member

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    I like the 215 50 17 fills the gap nicely
     
    #3 tankyuong, Aug 18, 2013
  4. tankyuong

    tankyuong Senior Member

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    image.jpg
     
    #4 tankyuong, Aug 18, 2013
  5. 32kcolors

    32kcolors Senior Member

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    Another disadvantage to going with 205/50-17 or 215/50-17 is they lack the raised rim protector found on many 215/45-17 tires so your brand new wheels will be susceptible to minor curb rash from being a little too careless or misjudging.
     
    #5 32kcolors, Aug 18, 2013
  6. mroadster2k

    mroadster2k A little bit of awesomeness

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    Excellent, thank you for the info. Just settled for a set of Yokohama Ascend in 205/50. I'll report on it. Love this forum
     
    #6 mroadster2k, Aug 20, 2013
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