2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Tire Size
When it comes to your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, having the right tire size is crucial for performance, handling, and safety. Different trims of the Lancer come with different tire specifications, and knowing these details can help you make informed decisions when replacing tires or upgrading to something better. Below is a detailed overview of the tire sizes for various trims of the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Understanding Tire Size
Before diving into the specifics, let’s break down what a tire size means. The size is typically represented in a format like P215/45R18. Here’s what each part means:
- P: Indicates the tire is meant for passenger vehicles.
- 215: The width of the tire in millimeters.
- 45: The aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width.
- R: Indicates radial construction.
- 18: The diameter of the wheel in inches.
Tire Sizes by Trim Level
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer comes in several trims, each with its own tire specifications. Below is a table summarizing the tire sizes for each trim:
| Trim Level | Tire Size | Wheel Diameter (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| ES | P205/60R16 | 16 |
| GTS | P215/45R18 | 18 |
| Ralliart | P215/45R18 | 18 |
| Evolution | P245/40R18 | 18 |
ES Trim
The base model, the ES trim, is equipped with P205/60R16 tires. This size offers a good balance between comfort and handling. If you’re looking for a smooth ride without compromising too much on performance, these tires will serve you well.
GTS Trim
The GTS trim steps it up with P215/45R18 tires. This size is designed for better grip and handling, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more spirited driving experience. If you frequently take sharp turns or drive on winding roads, these tires will enhance your performance.
Ralliart Trim
The Ralliart, a sportier version of the Lancer, shares the same tire size as the GTS, P215/45R18. This trim is built for performance, so having the right tires is essential. These tires provide excellent cornering stability and responsiveness.
Evolution Trim
Finally, the Evolution trim is the top dog, sporting P245/40R18 tires. This size offers the best grip and handling characteristics, making it ideal for high-performance driving. If you’re pushing your Lancer to its limits, these tires are a must.
Importance of Choosing the Right Tire Size
Choosing the correct tire size is not just about aesthetics; it affects your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. Here are some key points to consider:
- Improper tire size can lead to poor handling and increased wear on suspension components.
- Fuel efficiency can be compromised if the tires are too wide or too narrow for your vehicle.
- Safety is paramount; tires that are too small may not provide adequate traction, while oversized tires can interfere with braking and steering.
When replacing tires for your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications. This will ensure that you maintain the car’s intended performance and safety characteristics.
Exploring the Smallest and Biggest Tire Sizes for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
When it comes to tires for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, understanding the smallest and biggest tire sizes can significantly impact your driving experience. Whether you are looking to enhance performance or simply replace worn-out tires, knowing your options is key. Let’s dive into the smallest and biggest tire sizes available for this model, along with some owner feedback and recommendations.
Smallest Tire Size
The smallest tire size for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is found on the ES trim, which uses P205/60R16 tires. This size is designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining decent handling characteristics. Owners have reported that these tires offer a smooth driving experience, especially on city roads and highways.
Owner Feedback on Smallest Tire Size
From various forums and owner reviews, here are some common points regarding the smallest tire size:
- Comfort: Many owners appreciate the smooth ride quality provided by the P205/60R16 tires, making long drives less tiring.
- Fuel Efficiency: Users have noted slight improvements in fuel economy, which can be attributed to the smaller tire size.
- Noise Levels: The smaller tires tend to produce less road noise compared to larger options, contributing to a quieter cabin.
However, some owners have mentioned that while these tires are great for daily driving, they may not provide the best grip during aggressive cornering or in wet conditions.
Biggest Tire Size
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the biggest tire size available for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is found on the Evolution trim, which uses P245/40R18 tires. This size is engineered for performance, offering superior grip and handling characteristics.
Owner Feedback on Biggest Tire Size
Feedback from Lancer Evolution owners highlights several advantages and considerations regarding the biggest tire size:
- Performance: Many users rave about the enhanced handling and cornering capabilities provided by the P245/40R18 tires, especially during spirited driving.
- Traction: These tires excel in providing traction, making them a popular choice for those who drive in varying weather conditions.
- Aesthetics: The larger tires give the Lancer a more aggressive stance, which many owners find appealing.
However, there are some downsides to consider:
- Ride Comfort: Owners have reported that the ride can be stiffer compared to smaller tire sizes, which may not be ideal for daily commuters.
- Cost: Larger tires tend to be more expensive, both in terms of initial purchase and potential replacements.
- Fuel Efficiency: Some users have experienced a slight decrease in fuel economy due to the increased rolling resistance of larger tires.
Best Tire Recommendations
Based on owner feedback and discussions in automotive forums, here are some recommended tire options for both the smallest and biggest sizes:
For Smallest Size (P205/60R16)
1. Michelin Defender T+H: Known for its long tread life and excellent wet traction, this tire is a favorite among ES trim owners.
2. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady: This tire offers all-season performance with a focus on wet weather handling.
3. Continental TrueContact Tour: Praised for its balance of comfort and performance, this tire is a solid choice for daily driving.
For Biggest Size (P245/40R18)
1. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S: A top choice for performance enthusiasts, this tire offers exceptional grip and cornering stability.
2. Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R: Known for its track-ready performance, this tire is ideal for those who frequently push their Lancer to the limits.
3. Nitto NT05: This tire is favored for its aggressive tread pattern and high-performance capabilities, making it a popular choice for spirited driving.
Choosing the right tire size for your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer can make a world of difference in your driving experience. Whether you opt for the comfort of the smallest size or the performance of the biggest, understanding your options will help you make an informed decision.