215/45 vs 205/50 for 17" rims

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by mr_yellow, Nov 7, 2013.

  1. mr_yellow

    mr_yellow Junior Member

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    Hey guys,

    Does anyone know why Toyota outfitted the prius with 215/45R17 sized tires for the 17" rims and not 205/50R17 tires which closer matches the stock 195/65R15 tires?

    Thanks,
     
    #1 mr_yellow, Nov 7, 2013
  2. F8L

    F8L Protecting Habitat & AG Lands

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    The smaller 215/45/17 makes the mpg loss from 17s appear smaller than if they used the 205/50/17. :p
     
    #2 F8L, Nov 11, 2013
  3. 32kcolors

    32kcolors Senior Member

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    I don't think we know their official reason, but I think OE 215/45/17 looks cooler with their large raised rim protectors. If you don't like thinner/lower profile look that comes with OE 215/45/17, then go with one with a smaller rim protector like the Ecopia EP422 in that size, which looks a bit fuller in the sidewall rather than the too fat looking 205/50/17.
     
    #3 32kcolors, Nov 12, 2013
  4. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    I wonder about that (have the 17" rims). Do you think the odometer hasn't been adjusted? With the 1~2% diff, is that still within limits for odo accuracy?
     
    #4 Mendel Leisk, Nov 12, 2013
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