javohio

Would like to replace current factory sized tires on my RX330 (2005) with a wider tire to enhance traction.Has anyone upsized their RX330 with improved results?

Thanks, JAVOHIO

shikbas

I tried that and had to replace those bigger tires after onlr a few monthes gas milage was very bad rubbing on full steering

takeshi74

Different tires can have different grip levels as well. You might want to carefully research before assuming that you have to go wider. What's currently on your RX330?

mandyfig

Normally people go to 255/55/18 from the current 235/55/18. I saw an MDX with the 255/55/18, it has a wider footprint alright. Higher cost as well. Do not know the actual benefit versus the investment.

I did want to upgrade to 255/55/18 but never did.

Ideally if you are going higher widths, you have to go to lower profile. Like 255/45/18 to keep the same diameter and your speedometer accurate.

jfelbab

Also interesting to check tread width specs for various tires. The tread width is the actual width of the contact patch hitting the road. This is much different than sidewall width. As you can see, they can vary by as much as an inch and a half. So you may be able to get a wider footprint in the same tire size by looking at the manufacturer's specs.

I looked up a few 235/55/19 brands and as you can see tread width varies a lot:

Michelin Latitude Tour HP - 8.6”
Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia - 8.1”
Dunlop Grandtrek Touring A/S - 7.2”
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season - 8.6”

Tread width does not necessarily mean better traction or longer life. Rubber compounds, construction and tread patterns play a big roll in that but if you are looking for a wider tire and don't want to mess with the speedo error or unsprung weight issues it might warrant a closer look at these specs.