For what it's worth, i have the Appearance Package (which is akin to a sports package) on my '06 ML350, which comes with 19" rims and Michelin Diamaris performance tires...the car is an absolute beast in the snow with that rim/tire setup, no problems whatsoever. Having 19's on a SUV the size of the RX is no problem at all in terms of ride comfort or safety compromise.

Also, if i could not find a car equipped the way i wanted it, i would order the car configured exactly the way i wanted and wait for it to be built. I don't purchase cars that often, and don't lease cars, so i would want the car to be tailored to my wants and needs. its what i did with my ML, and i'm glad i did.

 

But how do you know you want it to order it, IF YOU HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO TEST DRIVE IT?

I don't want to spend the $$ (and be in a lesser negotiating position in regards to purchase price) if it doesn't make a difference to cornering. And I don't KNOW unless/until I can drive one.

Sandi

 

i hear you, but i am so certain that i would want the sport package that i would be willing to order it without testing it, particularly if it only helps cornering and doesn't affect ride quality, as reviewers have stated. Rims are very important to me, and if the only way i can get the superchrome finish is by getting sport package, it makes it that much more of a no-brainer.

 

You can buy them (chrome 19"s) after. My dealers have offered between $600-700 per wheel + plus install. It would be in addition to the stock wheels, but then I would have summer/winter set.