Should we swap our Volkswagen Eos' 18-inch wheels to 17-inch to improve the ride?

What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Should we swap our Volkswagen Eos' 18-inch wheels to 17-inch to improve the ride?

I bought a VW Eos 1.4 160bhp Sport last summer. It rides on 18-inch alloys with sport suspension set up (factory standard for that model). Tyres are Continental 235/40 R18. Its ride has become too firm on our poor Devon roads. Would a switch to 17-inch and 235 /45 R17 give a more compliant ride? Also, on snow/winter tyres, which brand would you recommend. Am I correct in thinking there are "all-year" tyres which might be a good compromise?

Asked on 3 June 2010 by ptdb

Answered by Honest John

Yes, a switch to 17s would make the suspension less harsh. For winter, 16s would be best fitted with winter compound tyres. Switch from one to the other in November, then back again in March.

Tags: ride comfort wheels and tyres wheel sizes winter tyres

Similar questions

What are the advantages of bigger wheels?

I'm baffled by the different wheel sizes on offer for the same model of car. Often the higher spec models have bigger wheels. Are there any advantages to these bigger tyres, which seem to be considerably...

Is a harsh ride caused by sport suspension or tyres?

I've just bought a new SEAT Alhambra 2.0-litre diesel auto in SEL spec. It has 225/50 R17 self sealing tyres. The ride around town is very harsh and we feel every bump. Is it the sport suspension causing...

What tyres could I fit to my 2011 Honda Civic to improve ride comfort?

Whilst I'm pretty happy with my 2011 Honda Civic, I do find that I feel every bump whilst driving around the fens. It's fitted with Bridgestone Potenza 5001 225/45R 17-inch tyres. Are there any alternative...

Related models