Bigger Tires??

Have a 2001 XLS with the largest Toyota factory rims and tires available. The tires look too narrow and I would like some more meaty looking rubber. What is the biggest tire I can safely put on this car?

Thanks,

MC

The cars profile would be dramatically different with aftermarket wheels more than bigger tires. Changing the overall tire height too much will start to cause driveline related problems, as well as cook the brakes.

Don't go bigger then 18's, it will kill the offset for the spedo, as well as the ride. Don't even think about lowering it either, your just asking for trouble then.

I would also like to see bigger tires (not wheels) on my wifes Avalon. She scrapes the bottom everytime she leaves our driveway (fairly steep). I think an exta 1" would solve the problem. I assume they are currently 205/65-15, can they be increased without increasing wheel size?

I would also like to see bigger tires (not wheels) on my wifes Avalon. She scrapes the bottom everytime she leaves our driveway (fairly steep). I think an exta 1" would solve the problem. I assume they are currently 205/65-15, can they be increased without increasing wheel size?


Nope, can't change the tire size without the wheels being changed. I do think that Toyota (when they redesign the Avalon next model year) will step-up the tires, as well as the performance even if it's just slightly on their flagship. Because when I look at cars like the Audi A6, Lexus ES, and especially the Maxima (which I had the pleasure of renting for a week) The Avalon cannot hold a match to these performance-luxury vehicles. And lets face it more and more car buyers are looking for that combo, it's like the SUV phase a few years back, it's hot and in demand. If Toyota wants to stay competitive they will step it up a notch. That includes wider better performing tires.