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Will changing my tyres improve ride quality?

I have changed from a Golf SV with 205/55/R16 tyres to a VW T-Roc with 215/50/R18 tyres. I am finding the ride much harder. Would a Michelin tyre make the ride more comfortable and if so which model?What other options do I have?

Asked on 2 October 2024 by

Answered by David Ross
Aside from the differences in vehicle weight and suspension, your new vehicle has larger wheels and tyres with smaller sidewalls, so it is no surprise that the ride is more firm. Broadly speaking, a different brand of tyre will not make a huge difference in ride quality - more significant factors are wheel and tyre dimensions as well as the type of tyre. Fitting smaller wheels is one option - the T-Roc was available from the factory with 215/55R17 and 215/60R16 wheels and tyres which would give a bigger sidewall. A cheaper option would be to switch to an all-season tyre, although the improvement in ride quality would be smaller compared to a different size of wheel and tyre.
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