Tyres 215 or 235 R 17?

HAPPY_T6_CALI · May 30, 2016

My brand new California 150/DSG, deliverd last week, has Continental ContiVanContact 215/60R 17 C 109/107T tyres on Cascavel alloy wheels. A month ago I tested a T6 for a few days with the same specs, same alloys, but with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 235/55R 17 103 W. I noticed a much smoother ride with the 235/55, which may not be a surprise because tyre pressure for 235/55 is 44 psi (3,0 bar) and for the 215/60, 53-54 psi (3,7 bar). I believe the higher pressure is the reason for the noticeable more bumpy ride. According to my dealer, lowering the pressure on the Continentals 215/60 to approx. 46 (3,2 bar) should not be any problem.
Anyone with experience in this matter?

Michael G · May 30, 2016

I have both a set of 215 nokian c2 and 235 Dunlop sport max on cascavel alloys, just changed from 235 to 215 last week. I rather like the 215 even if the 235 looks better. I find the 215 smoother on bumpy roads even with 3.7 psi. Should get better milage also. More noise at low speed but less chocks when driving over bumps or rocks.

Michael G · Jun 1, 2016

Changed back to 235 from 215 today. It is hard to notice any difference I think. A bit more sluggish when steering the 235. Could be hard to determine in a blind test.

WelshGas · Jun 1, 2016

Michael G said:
I have both a set of 215 nokian c2 and 235 Dunlop sport max on cascavel alloys, just changed from 235 to 215 last week. I rather like the 215 even if the 235 looks better. I find the 215 smoother on bumpy roads even with 3.7 psi. Should get better milage also. More noise at low speed but less chocks when driving over bumps or rocks.

With 3.7 psi I doubt if you would feel any bumps. Must be a really soft ride.