canadaIS

Cluwsyde (#18): I am curious...you have 18 inch winter tires. I believe the stock rims are 17 inch on the IS250. Why did you go with 18 inch for the winter tires?
Thanks,
Garry

cluwsyde

Oops, sorry, I forgot to mention that I got the X-Pkg which has 18" rims. In Canada, they are "offering" a 17" alloy rim + winter tire package for the low low price of $3K :P

So, instead of paying $3K on top of my already more expensive than US pricing 250, I opted to pay for just put the 18" winter tires and hope that I don't damage my rims this winter.

canadaIS

Yes, you're right: Lexus quoted me $3,100 for a rims and tire package (I also have an IS250 RWD). I went to tirerack.com and got them for $1,180, which includes shipping, duty and taxes.

Kayo

Cluwsyde, Congrats on the car! Did the dealer give you anything of MSRP? I guess they are having a tough time in Canada with the dollar.

The Nokian WR's are great for winter but are and can be used all season and work well in that capacity. They have great grip. I have a pair on my 1995 Mercedes E320. I also have the Hakka 4's for my Benz. With the 250 AWD you will be fine with the WR's for rear wheel drive I think I need dedicated winter tires.

I talked to Nokia directly and they do not make the Hakka series for the IS350 18" staggered config. The guy seemed to indicate that this may happen though in the next year, as they would be producing more "north american" sizes. Didn't check on the WR's though :-)