Help: I love tight handling, wife hates it: compromise?

I went for the 16s because it was the cheaper option that time (2nd hand). luckily enough, it's about 2-3 lbs lighter than the stock 15in rims. if you go for the TE37 17s, it would definitely be more expensive but will fall close to the weight of the stock 15in. If you choose the right LRR tire, you'd probably still get away with stock mpg expectations. So it's important to mind the weight when you go bigger. look for lightweight 17s. lots of them around but a bit pricey. I think 17s are perfect for the gen3. 16s would look small because i think the gen3s have wider arches.

Also, choosing the right rubber is key. I learned first hand that one could loose 5-8 mpg on bad tires. They're probably not really bad per se, it's just that they're not the right tire for the prius as they're too soft or grippy for a slightly underpowered eco car which is sensitive to these variables (especially the gen2). My first set of 16-in tires were not LRR-rated but acted like LRRs. I'm now on Bridgestone PZ-X which replaces the Ecopia line here in oz. I find it slightly better in rolling resistance and has better lateral grip. My maximum cold tire pressure that i put in now is 44/42 on the bridgestones as i'm more confident with the quality. Before it was 42/40 on the old ones.

With regards to coilovers, there are more options for the gen3 than the gen2. Tanabe is a good place to start. if money is not an issue, go for the 2-way or 3-way adjustable so you can hopefully tune it to your liking. Oh and don't forget to specify soft to medium spring rates.

So don't hold back on how you want to mod your car. Just plan it carefully and under the radar. lol! Once it is set up to your liking, as what i did to mine, it will definitely make you smile with satisfaction as you've been able to improve the handling a lot and keeping the gas bills in check at the same time. That means twice the fun!

 

To the OP: you're gonna have some "enthusiasts" egging you on, with the braces, lowering, tires, whatever. But my 2 cents:

The car is fine stock. Your wife is talking sense.

 

In my opinion, anything between what the door sticker says and the max sidewall is safe. I personally have run my tires at the sidewall max of 51PSI for the 14k miles I've owned the car and haven't had an issues. Your wife might be able to detect higher pressure, though, 38-42PSI seems to be what most people here use if they want a little comfort as well as better MPGs/handling.

 

I never did understand the idea that economy and better handling were mutually exclusive. Of course we can meet in the middle. Go Daniel Go!

 

maybe get her, her own car?