2016 WRX Limited Tire Size Overview
When it comes to performance vehicles like the 2016 Subaru WRX Limited, tire size plays a crucial role in handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. Knowing the correct tire size for your specific trim can save you from unnecessary headaches down the road. Here, we break down the tire sizes for the different trims of the 2016 WRX Limited.
Understanding Tire Sizes
Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify how tire sizes are represented. A typical tire size is denoted in a format like P225/45R17. Here’s what each part means:
- P: Indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.
- 225: 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: Radial construction.
- 17: The diameter of the wheel in inches.
Tire Sizes for Different Trims
The 2016 WRX comes in several trims, each with its own specifications. Below is a detailed table that outlines the stock tire sizes for the WRX Limited and its variants.
| Trim Level | Front Tire Size | Rear Tire Size | Wheel Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| WRX Limited | P245/40R18 | P245/40R18 | 18 inches |
| WRX Premium | P245/40R18 | P245/40R18 | 18 inches |
| WRX Base | P225/45R17 | P225/45R17 | 17 inches |
Stock Tire Size Details
1. WRX Limited:
– Front and Rear: P245/40R18
– This tire size is optimized for performance, providing a wider contact patch for better grip and handling, especially in cornering situations.
2. WRX Premium:
– Front and Rear: P245/40R18
– Similar to the Limited, this trim also benefits from the same tire size, ensuring that you get the performance and stability expected from a WRX.
3. WRX Base:
– Front and Rear: P225/45R17
– While slightly narrower than the Limited and Premium, this size still offers a good balance of comfort and performance for everyday driving.
Why Tire Size Matters
Choosing the correct tire size is not just about aesthetics. It impacts several key aspects of your driving experience:
- Handling: Wider tires can enhance grip, especially during aggressive cornering.
- Ride Comfort: The right tire size can improve ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Incorrect tire sizes can throw off your speedometer readings, leading to potential legal issues.
In summary, knowing your 2016 WRX Limited tire size is essential for maintaining optimal performance and safety. Whether you’re hitting the track or just commuting, make sure you’re equipped with the right tires for your trim.
Exploring the Smallest and Biggest Tire Sizes for the 2016 WRX Limited
When it comes to maximizing the performance and aesthetics of your 2016 Subaru WRX Limited, understanding tire sizes is essential. While the stock tire size is P245/40R18, there are options for both smaller and larger tires that can enhance your driving experience. This section dives into the smallest and biggest tire sizes available, along with recommendations based on owner feedback and forum discussions.
Smallest Tire Size Options
While the WRX Limited comes standard with P245/40R18 tires, some owners have explored downsizing to achieve a different driving feel or improve ride comfort. The smallest tire size commonly discussed in forums is P225/45R17. Here’s what you need to know:
- Size: P225/45R17
- Benefits:
- Improved ride comfort due to a taller sidewall.
- Better fuel efficiency and lower rolling resistance.
- Cost-effective option for budget-conscious owners.
- Drawbacks:
- Reduced grip and handling performance compared to wider tires.
- May affect speedometer accuracy.
- Less aggressive look, which some owners may find unappealing.
Best Small Tire Recommendations
Based on owner feedback, here are some popular tire models that fit the P225/45R17 size:
- Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+
- Excellent all-season performance.
- Great grip in both wet and dry conditions.
- Continental ExtremeContact DWS06
- Highly rated for its wet and dry traction.
- Long-lasting tread life.
Biggest Tire Size Options
On the flip side, some WRX enthusiasts opt for larger tires to enhance performance and aesthetics. The largest tire size discussed for the WRX Limited is P255/35R19. Here’s what to consider:
- Size: P255/35R19
- Benefits:
- Wider contact patch for improved grip and handling.
- Enhanced aggressive look that complements the WRX’s sporty design.
- Better cornering stability at high speeds.
- Drawbacks:
- Stiffer ride quality due to the lower profile.
- Potential for increased road noise.
- Higher cost for tires and possible impact on fuel efficiency.
Best Large Tire Recommendations
If you’re considering upgrading to P255/35R19 tires, here are some highly recommended models:
- Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R
- Exceptional dry grip and cornering performance.
- Ideal for track days and spirited driving.
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
- Outstanding performance in both wet and dry conditions.
- Long-lasting tread with excellent feedback.
Owner Feedback and Considerations
When selecting tire sizes, it’s essential to consider what fellow WRX owners are saying. Many enthusiasts recommend sticking close to the stock size for daily driving to maintain balance and performance. However, those who prioritize a more aggressive look or enhanced handling often opt for the larger sizes.
- Forums are buzzing with discussions about the trade-offs between comfort and performance.
- Many owners report that larger tires can lead to a harsher ride but are worth it for the performance gains.
- Smaller tires tend to be favored by those who prioritize comfort and daily drivability.
In the end, whether you choose to go smaller or larger, making an informed decision based on your driving style and preferences is key. The 2016 WRX Limited is a versatile vehicle, and the right tires can elevate your driving experience to new heights.