2018 Prius Four Touring - Looking for wheel size advice

For your car with 17" wheels, transitioning to a tire with a higher aspect ratio can enhance ride comfort without losing too much handling. Look for tires with a lower speed rating, as these tend to have softer sidewalls for a smoother ride. Brands like Michelin and continental offer touring tires designed for comfort. Downsizing to 16" or 15" wheels could also improve ride comfort, but it might compromise handling and braking performance. Ensure the new tires maintain proper load capacity and diameter to avoid issues. Consulting with a tire professional can help find the optimal balance between ride comfort and performance for your vehicle.

 

Downsizing to smaller wheels just for a little ride comfort seems like a lot of unnecessary expense and hassle (especially since, as has already been pointed out, the suspension is not going to change and will still have the same harshness characteristics). Plus the hit you will be taking on the gas mileage.

 

Maybe the suspension is the same, 15" vs 17"? Or at least close? Not sure.

Our '10 Touring came with the 17" (3rd gen) rims, and every winter I switch over to 15" michelin X-Ice, most recently using PIP 15" rims. It is easier on the sunken manholes and what have you, and better mpg to boot. Next time around I met just put on something like Michelin Cross-Climate, and fugedabout the 17s, till trade-in time. If that ever comes...

 

Do you notice any difference in the handling? Assuming, of course, in the “mild” Canadian winters you get in a little high speed sport driving. Especially with the high mileage you put on in the winter.

 

Handling feels about the same. Our touring apparently does have some suspension mods, but still 15” profile tires feel cushier.

yeah Xmas eve we passed 100,000 kms. Today I noticed it’s around 100,550 lol.