Anybody know if there is any difference in MPG with 17x8 wheels?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by Lucky Lager, Jan 15, 2014.

  1. Lucky Lager

    Lucky Lager Junior Member

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    17x7 vs 17x8 Anyone have experience with this? Looking at getting TSW Nurburgring wheels but they only come is 8" widths.

    Is there any real diff in 17x7 vs 17x7.5 vs 17x8's? In relation to MPG gain/loss, steering/handling etc - whatever info you have.

    Thanks for any help, I just can't decide on a wheel set :)
     
    #1 Lucky Lager, Jan 15, 2014
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    definitely a 4-6 mpg hit.
     
    #2 bisco, Jan 15, 2014
  3. 32kcolors

    32kcolors Senior Member

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    The OP is asking about differences between different width wheels in the 17" size, not with respect to 15" stockers.

    Yes, the diameter/width is one of the major factors that influence mpg so you'll in theory get a bigger mpg hit with wider wheels. Wider tires will also increase the rolling resistance and frontal aero drag.
     
    #3 32kcolors, Jan 15, 2014
  4. Lucky Lager

    Lucky Lager Junior Member

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    Ok interested in the TSW's they are less than 18lbs per wheel (17x8) So I was curious if this light wheel (relative) with a stocker size LRR tire 215/45/17 would be a good trade off without a "real" hit in mpg....curious if anyone has some hard data here. Im not super concerned about the mpg just like to know and not be surprised if its more or less than I thought
     
    #4 Lucky Lager, Jan 15, 2014
  5. 32kcolors

    32kcolors Senior Member

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    Unfortunately, unsprung weight isn't a major factor in mpg but mostly affects acceleration/deceleration and other aspects of handling/ride performance. You won't be able to fully compensate for the mpg loss as a result of going wider by opting for lighter wheels. However, if you can fit 215/45/17 and good LRR tires on 17X8, the loss will be less compared to wider tires.
     
    #5 32kcolors, Jan 15, 2014
  6. Lucky Lager

    Lucky Lager Junior Member

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    Thanks 32K!
     
    #6 Lucky Lager, Jan 15, 2014
  7. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    sorry.:oops:
     
    #7 bisco, Jan 15, 2014
  8. Lucky Lager

    Lucky Lager Junior Member

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    Thanks bisco
     
    #8 Lucky Lager, Jan 15, 2014
  9. runnerstreet

    runnerstreet Junior Member

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    Lucky Lager,
    I'm looking at the same setup. Actually, I just pulled the trigger on a set of Niche 17x8, and plan to use the stock Toyo 215/45 tires.
    Did you end up going with this setup? If so, what are your thoughts? Did it stretch the tire too much? How is your MPG after the change over?
     
    #9 runnerstreet, Mar 9, 2015
  10. Sfcyclist

    Sfcyclist Senior Member

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    My guess is yes but minimal. Rotational mass increased and probably aerodynamics take a hit too. Using my previous cars as reference, my guess is about 1 mpg hit.... ;)

    Notice most electric performance cars, with big wheels like the i3 or Tesla, relatively speaking, they are tall and narrow tires. The little i3 has optional 20" wheels. That car was actually fun to drive. Love that torque.
     
    #10 Sfcyclist, Mar 10, 2015
  11. runnerstreet

    runnerstreet Junior Member

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    Yeah, my research and guess tell me with the 40mm offset vs the 50mm stock offset, plus the 1" overall wider wheel, it will be poking out just a lil too much to take advantage of any aerodynamic advantage. I don't think
    I'm gonna go with the niche's after all.
    Back to the drawling board...
     
    #11 runnerstreet, Mar 11, 2015
  12. timc1475

    timc1475 New Member

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    I think the affect is minimal especially for city driving, slightly more for hwy. Maybe 1 - 2 mpg tops IMO, as long as your new tire choice is also a low rolling resistant design. I have my prior new set for sale btw. Unsure how to go about that though. Any ideas feel free to drop me a message
     
    #12 timc1475, Mar 13, 2015
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