After becoming almost paranoiac over my 17-inch wheel problem, yesterday, for a total of £700 I equipped my Ford B-Max Titanium with 15-inch Ford Zetec alloy wheels shod with the appropriate 195/60 Michelin Energy Saver tyres. I hope to recoup most of this by selling the 17-inch wheels and Bridgestone tyres (which have only covered 300 miles), probably on eBay. This makes the optional part leather and heated seats (when marketed with the 17-inch wheels - which I didn't want) an expensive option at £600.

As you predicted, the smaller wheel and higher profile tyres made a major improvement to ride quality, although I sense that there might be a slight increase in tyre noise. The steering is also calmer. Overall, our B-Max is now a very pleasant, comfortable and convenient small car with a big car feel to it.