Larger Tires

What dimensions are the tires you're considering.

 

You don't have to change wheel size to improve the ride.
Wait......you want bigger tires for the same rims......bigger HOW? Wider.....taller.....??
I think you are asking the wrong question.

If you are running high tire pressure, just putting that back to the recommendation might help some.

You need to realize, however, that anything you do to make a smoother ride probably will result in worse fuel mileage.

 

It looks like you have a 17" rims now. Your tires are probably 50 profile? Regular Prius rims are 15" and those are used with 65 profile tires. The latter rims+tires would ride much softer than what you have now. Using higher profile tires on your existing rim would make the ride softer, but rubber might start rubbing the wheel wells in turns, and speedometer/ odometer will be a little off.
Running tires at 32 psi ( or whatever the recommended pressure is) also will make softer ride
Alex

 

OP, let everyone know your rim stats and current tire (model/size).

 

17" tires tend to ride rougher than 15" tires. Your aftermarket tires might be further acerbating this issue by being particularly rough riding. It's hard to say since you didn't list the size and model. You could try switching to a better riding tire like the Pirelli Cinturato P7, Ecopia EP422 or Primacy MXV4. The only drawback to going up a size to a 205/50/17 is that most tires are XL rated which could make them ride rougher than a 215/45/17. You can also reduce air pressure to placard levels of around 35psi and see if this helps. It's not great for fuel economy but can make a big difference in ride comfort.

 

Others have addressed that; you won't be able to change it much and a wider sidewall will not guarantee a better ride......as other factors come into play......like the compound used and construction methods. Also the taller tire might present some mechanical issues.

I think you just need to shop for a tire known for a smooth quiet ride that is the standard size for those rims.
And keep in mind that your gas mileage likely will suffer in the process.

 

I kinda hope this guy is gone, not a good listener.

 

Here or not, we have soooo many "guests" that the info we provide will help someone.

 

Yeah, too true. You are very patient; it's driving me nuts that he can't at least id his tire, lol.

 

What does XL rated mean?

My reasoning for going up to the 50 sidewall come new rubber time wouldn't be for ride comfort (heck right now I am at 44/42 for tire pressure on my persona's 17's, might drop down to 42/40 though), It would just be to have a little more rubber on the sidewall to help against crushing rims on the land mines aka potholes up here in the northeast….

 

I'm game to play 20 questions:

Are they 215/45R17?

 

XL = Extra Load

They ate designed to be more robust and handle heavier loads. They are a great choice for poor roads with regards to resisting damage and blowouts.

 

Thanks. I think F8L's suggestion of 205/50R17 (post #7) is spot-on. It makes the outside diameter virtually identical to 195/65R15 (OEM 15" tire), just very slightly bigger. I'm considering that myself, just a little concern about the XL rating.

 

Well if his description of the Xl rating is correct, how can you go wrong?? If going to the "50" sidewall benefits me by ways of less of a chance of having a blowout on an unexpected monster pothole well I'm all for it and will be upgrading to the 205/50R17 prob sooner than later.

Ding ding ding ding!!! Lol!!


Honestly those were my first assumption being as we were talking about 17's on a liftback. Granted anything else up to 18's are possible but let's be honest MOST folk go with the stock sized 17's from the prius 5 or persona sized rims.

Feel free to Crucify me if I'm wrong...

 

Here you go.

"XL" vs. Standard load tires ... what should I do? - Miles of Smiles | Tire Rack

The "XL" (extra load) tire can be ordered for a vehicle that had a standard load tire as its Original Equipment. This is accomplished in the manufacturing process by adding additional material to the shoulder of a tire for extra strength. These reinforcements (usually accomplished with polyamide belting found where the sidewall and tread meet) are designed to minimize any tire deflection and reduce potential damage due to road impact. These strong tires will be branded with an "XL" or "RF" in their descriptions.

Will the XL tire have an effect on my comfort?

The "XL" tire will change the perception and feel of the vehicle. Tires that are engineered with reinforced sidewalls typically fall into the performance tire category. These tires have a rubber compound formulated to accentuate performance but not necessarily detract from the ride quality.

A driver should consider XL tire options when plus sizing any wheel packages or if more feedback from the tire is desired. Drivers seeking a firmer ride and enhanced car control would not need to be concerned with the XL warning when comparing different tires to match their driving expectations. As a matter of fact, this type tire will enhance the overall vehicle stability and handling. Also, the selection of a more aggressive tread compound will increase grip in the wet and dry.

For drivers desiring a softer feel and are willing to forgo the car’s stability in cornering, the standard load tire will be a more appropriate choice.
- See more at: "XL" vs. Standard load tires ... what should I do? - Miles of Smiles | Tire Rack