2010 Prius only getting 32 mpg due to wheels/tires...need recommendations on replacements

You need to stick with low rolling resistance tires. See Low Rolling Resistance replacement tires: Current List | PriusChat I'm averaging 50 mpg actual with my OEM 17", but that's with efficient driving with a bit of pulse and gliding thrown in. If my wife were to drive it, mpg would drop like a rock.

 

Just put the original rims and tires type back on the car

 

Not likely, unless you practice some extreme hypermiling techniques. You'll do better than 32 mpg if you get LRR tires for your existing 18" rims but you'll probably not achieve 50 mpg unless you downsize to smaller and narrower wheels. The width of your current wheels are also killing your mpg. Also, some people are of the opinion that the factory 17s (including the Persona wheels) are optimized for fuel economy in terms of offset and aerodynamics. If you're fine with a 2-3 mpg hit, then go ahead and get the Persona rims and LLR tires.

 

Size of the rim isn't a big deal, its the rolling circumference of the tire installed on the rim, and the total weight of both tire and rim. You should be looking to duplicate the weight and rolling circumference of the original setup. Doesn't really matter how you get there. I agree that the width and offset of the rim/tire combo should be similar to original.

 

I have a set of frs wheels and tires 17 inch like stock. Out of box condition. That will help your mpg.

 

Where are you located? In this weather, your car might be running A/C a bit more often than normal which at times, forces your engine to run.

I run 225/40/18 Continental ExtremeContact DWS and I can pull 50mpg if I try. Lately I've been averaging less than that because I let my car sit and idle to keep the A/C running.

If you look at TireRack.com, there are two low resistance tire offerings.
Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS
Continental ContiTouringContact CW95

I was going to go with the Kumho Ecsta LX Platinum, but decided to go with the Continental tires.

 

sounds like it's more than tires killing your MPG

 

You also have to consider how long it will take for fuel savings (if any) to make up for the cost of new wheels and tires. Me thinks 32mpg is not just from the 18 inch wheels alone. Maybe you should drive a tank or two while trying your best for fuel economy and see what numbers you get. Have you ever reset the fuel avg meter?

 

32 mpg, it's not just the wheels, I'd have the obd2 port read for codes, something stinks

 

Although I avg. 46-48mpg, my leadfooted wife avg 39-41 in our 2010 so add in large/heavy 18's and I can see 32ish. That's why I suggested the OP focus on driving economy first.

 

Cerritos ca

 

I agree that it's not just tires at play here. You have to be racing a Prius in winter to get mpgs this low. I have factory 17s and I'm pulling 55mpg these days.

To the OP: you need to provide more info if you this problem solved.

-length of your drives
-carrying passengers
-A/C on, how high?
-how fast do you accelerate? Do you go all the way past the PWR zone on the HSI Display?
-mostly freeway, or stop and go traffic?

 

Why would you want to do that? It let's all the cool air out.