TomMartin

Curious about the 18" optional wheels on the 2020 ES 300h? I currently have a 2016 ES 300h just now coming off lease and considering a new 2020.

I am fine with my 17" on the 2016 but the incoming model that has options that I prefer also has the 18" wheels.

My 2016 is at 47,500 miles and there tires still have moderate tread...no doubt they will be due for replacement soon but I am pleased with the durability. BTW...they are Michelin Premiers .

Are there many choices for the 18"? Not sure if that is a main-line size or a size with fewer tire options?

I am OK with the appearance of the 18" and all other things being equal probably prefer the overall look on the car.

Downsides to the 18"...Thanks. TomMartin

lesz

With the 18" wheels, vehicle handling should be marginally better. However, for most drivers with a car like the ES, that difference likely will not be noticeable.

On the other hand, with the 18" wheels, the ride quality will be somewhat more harsh than it will be with 17" wheels. On perfectly smooth pavement, you aren't going to be likely to notice much difference, but, when driving on less than smooth pavement or even on roads with expansion joints, the difference will be noticeable. Similarly, with the lower profile tires that will come with the 18" wheels, there is less air between the road and the wheels than there will be with 17" wheels, and that will result in more road noise entering the cabin. Again, on perfectly smooth pavement, you won't be likely to notice much difference, but, when driving on less than perfectly smooth pavement, the difference will be noticeable.

TomMartin

Thanks...I know on my 2018 LX570 I have the 20" wheels as opposed to the 22" wheels and consider 20" very adequate from an appearance standpoint and I believe the 22" are much less available with far fewer choices and they also cost more.

We have enjoyed the ride on our 2016 with the 17" rims...Thanks...TomMartin

Tootsall

Also, if you happen to smack a pothole next spring you are far more likely to damage the 18” wheel than the 17”.

lesz

Similarly, if you are ever a bit careless when parking, you are more likely to get "curb rash" damage with the lower profile tires that come with the 18" wheels.

mickbrown

Tom, there are many 18” options. I replaced the OE Bridgestones with Michelin Premier A/S (235/45R18), and have been very satisfied.

TomMartin

Thanks...was that the OEM tire size? Little nervous about the various points mentioned...when I got our 2016 I was pleased it had the 17" and they have ben good tires. Reasonable ride and no other issues. TomMartin

mickbrown

Same: 235/45R18

bc6152

I had 17's on my 2013 ES and now have 18's on my 2019 UL. I couldn't tell the difference if you were pulling my fingernails out...
Both were Michelins...

actionzhe

Isn't the 18" wheel on the hybrid noise reducing? That alone is probably enough reason for me to go with it. I have it on my car and the ride is not harsh at all, and yes it really does help with the road noise.

bc6152

They come with the UL 350 as well... But I don't think the 17's on my 2013 were noisy either. I think it's the tires that make the difference, i.e. Michelin's... I have a very noise free, smooth ride with the NR wheels and 18" tires....

Ken7

I'll second that thought. We have it on our new 2019 ES300h and I find the ride both pleasant & very quiet.