Sport Edition Wheels

For the longest time, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord dominated the mid-size sedan game. Recently, however, a new contender has entered the ring - the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. And with many Sonata owners valuing safety over dry road handling, it's best they look at winter /  snow tires in the Studless Ice and Snow performance category.

Snow Tire Size

The GLS and Hybrid versions come equipped with 205/65-16 (215/55-17 is an optional Hybrid size) tires, while the Sonata Limited runs either 215/55-17s (2.4L engine) or 225/45-18s (2.0T). The Sonata SE runs on 225/45-18s in both engine models. For the GLS and Hybrid, 205/65-16 gives optimum balance between deep snow, ice and dry roads. Because 16" wheels won't clear the brakes on the Limited and SE trim levels, this makes 215/55-17 the best choice.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata uses valve-stem mounted TPMS sensors that must be initialized by the dealer to function. We can install sensors ($57* or $64* ea) purchased as part of a Winter / Snow Tire & Whee for free, but your dealer must initialize your sensors in the fall and spring as your summer wheels go back on.

Winter/Snow Tire & Wheel Package for GLS and Hybrid Sonatas

As I covered in a previous blog post, I believe the Michelin X-Ice Xi2 to be a slightly better choice compared to the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70, therefore I recommend a package that includes the 205/65-16 Michelin X-Ice Xi2 on steel wheels with the KT962 wheel covers for $735* plus shipping.

205/65-16 Michelin X-Ice Xi2

16x6.5 Black Steel Wheel

Winter/Snow Tire & Wheel Package for Limited and SE Sonatas

The ideal Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for the Limited and SE Sonata is the 215/55-17 Michelin X-Ice Xi2 on 17x7.5 50mm offset Sport Edition F7 wheels at $972** plus shipping.

215/55-17 Michelin X-Ice Xi2

17x7.5 50mm offset Silver Sport Edition F7

2011 Hyundai Winter FAQ:

1. I would prefer not to use the wheels listed above, can I use something different? When you're creating a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package, different wheel options will be provided to allow you to choose the combination that you prefer. 
2. I live at the North Pole and need a skinnier tire size for more emphasis on deep snow traction, what sizes can I run? There aren't any great super-skinny 16" or 17" choices, as the 195/60-16 (25.2") size is over 1" smaller in diameter compared to the 205/65-16 (26.5"). While 205/55-17s are 25.9" and their overall diameter is comparable, you're restricted to winter / snow tires which aren't great for the North Pole.
3. I'm leasing my car and will not have it for a long period of time, can I mount winter / snow tires on the vehicle's wheels? If your leased vehicle is equipped with either the 16" or 17" O.E. painted finish wheels, then it's fine to use them as snow wheels. If you have 18" wheels, then you're restricted to the wider 225/45-18 size. This wider tire will plow through deeper snow instead of cutting through it, so using the 18" O.E. wheels aren't ideal.

*Prices subject to change
**Prices subject to change, excluding sensors

Finding 17" wheels that fit the 2007-2012 BMW 335i isn't easy due to the large brakes on the car. While many feel that the Rial Salerno is a perfect balance of cost, appearance and quality for a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package setup, others like the Sport Edition A7 as a lower-cost alternative. 

New for this winter season, the affordable and popular Sport Edition A7 wheel is now in stock in a black painted finish. I've already received many emails and interest in the new color, as the black finish helps hide brake dust and accepts BMW center caps just like the silver painted version of the wheel.   

And with 45 different Sport Edition wheels available, you're sure to find one that suits your driving style.

Once upon on a time, the Alfa Romeo 164, FIAT Spider, Peugeot 505 and Renault Fuego roamed the American streets with their French and Italian charms. Then FIAT said "arrivederci" in 1983, Renault bid us "adieu" in 1987, Peugeot was no longer available in America starting in 1991 and Alfa said "ciao" in 1995. Blandness had apparently won.

Well, FIAT has brought flavor back with the new 500. If you managed to snag one and live in an area that receives snow, your 500 isn't complete as it really needs a set of dedicated winter / snow tires. Given the vehicle's low curb weight, most 500 drivers should install Studless Ice and Snow tires on all four corners.

Snow Tire Size

The 500 Pop and 500 Lounge come equipped with 185/55-15 tires, while the 500 Sport rolls on 195/45-16 tires. 185/55-15 is the ideal size for cutting through moderate and deep snow without compromising ice and dry road grip. To gain a better understanding of how to choose the proper winter / snow tire size, read "Size Selection of Winter Tires / Snow Tires."

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The 500 uses a direct TPMS that has the ability to automatically learn the electronic serial numbers of new sensors by simply driving the vehicle for 15 minutes at 15 mph or faster. TPMS sensors are reasonably priced at $39* each and installation is included with our free mount and balance.

Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package

For the 500, I like the Michelin X-Ice Xi2 for its great balance of ice grip and relatively good steering response. The 185/55-15 Michelin X-Ice Xi2 preserves a fair amount of the car's go-kart nature. As for wheels, the Sport Edition CE in either silver or bright satin would look great. The CE's bright satin finish is a shiny grey that goes well with the vehicle and while it may be a little hard to clean at times, a set would be a great complement to your new Michelin radial tires. This car wheel and tire combination is currently priced at $876*

185/55-15 Michelin X-Ice Xi2

15x6.5 40mm Offset Satin Silver Sport Edition CE

15x6.5 40mm Offset Silver Sport Edition CE

2012 FIAT 500 Winter FAQs:

1. Will the wheels listed for the Pop also fit the Sport? Yes, the relevant specifications are the same.

2. My 500 has a 4-98 bolt pattern, but Tire Rack sells both 4-98 and 4-100 wheels. How does the 4-100 wheel fit on the 4-98 vehicle? 4-100 wheels are compatible with 4-98 cars by using wobble bolts. Wobble bolts are bolts with floating seats. On the 500, each bolt seat moves slightly upward to accommodate the 4-100 bolt pattern. Since the wheel is centered on the hub by the wheel's centering ring, the wheel and tire assembly runs smoothly. You must use the included wobble bolts.

3. Are there any special installation instructions? Yes, please remove the two locator pins that are on the hub. These locator pins are used solely during the assembly of the car and serve no other function. They will need to be removed so the wheel fits flush against the hub.              

*Excludes shipping

"Are we there yet?" It's a question that many Sienna drivers may tire of hearing. They should take solace in the fact that their precious, albeit sometimes annoying cargo is well protected by a bevy of safety features. The 2011 Sienna has seven airbags, ABS, traction control and other safety features which help keep your family safe.

What about safety in snow country? Your all-season tires are a big chink in the armor. Dedicated winter / snow tires and proper winter driving will shield your family from winter's threat. Since many Sienna drivers are concerned about optimum safety in snow and on ice, selecting an option from the Studless Ice and Snow performance category would be an ideal set of Toyota tires.

Snow Tire Size

Front-wheel drive (FWD) Siennas come with either 235/60-17, 235/55-18 or 235/50-19 conventional tires as Original Equipment. While the all-wheel drive (AWD) Sienna is typically equipped with 235/55-18 run-flat tires and no spare. 

In general, a narrower tire is a better selection when sizing a winter / snow tire. Running narrower tires puts more weight, and therefore more grip on your tires. With a very light vehicle, such as the Toyota Yaris, there's less weight on the tires which makes it imperative to run skinnier tires. Given the Sienna's high curb weight, most drivers should stay with a 235/60-17 or 235/55-18 winter / snow tire.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The 2011 Toyota Sienna uses valve stem-mounted TPMS sensors, so sensors will need to be installed in your car wheels for the TPMS to function. Since TPMS sensors have unique serial numbers, your Toyota dealer will have to initialize your "winter" sensors in the fall and your "summer" sensors in the spring.

Original Equipment sensors are available for $38* each and installation is included when you purchase a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package. There are no functional issues if you decide to run without sensors, however you'll notice a constant warning light.

Winter/Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for FWD Siennas

Wheels and Tire Packages for the front-wheel drive Sienna are available with the 235/60-17 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 on the 17x7.5 Silver Machined Elbrus I05 for $1012** plus shipping. Plus, the Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 is a great contender, however, winter inventory can move quickly, so be sure to place your order well before the snow begins to fall. 

235/60-17 Bridgestone Blizzak WS-70

17x7.5 Silver Machine Elbrus I05

The 235/55-18 Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 on 18x8" Bright Silver Painted Sport Edition SE-14 wheels is priced at $1,224.00** plus shipping.

235/55-18 Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2

18x8 Bright Silver Sport Edition SE-14

Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for AWD Siennas

Since there are no 235/60-17 run-flat winter / snow tires, AWD Sienna drivers should look at the 235/55-18 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 RFT on Sport Edition SE-14 wheels for $1728*** plus shipping (the LM-60 RFT is the only compatible 235/55-18 run-flat winter / snow tire).

235/55-18 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 RFT

18x8 Bright Silver Sport Edition SE-14

2011 Toyota Sienna Winter / Snow FAQ:

1. Does Tire Rack offer steel wheels for the 2011 Sienna?

No, there are no compatible 16" or 17" steel wheels currently available.

2. Will my 16" wheels and tires from my old Sienna fit?

No, unfortunately your old 16" wheels won't clear the larger brakes in the 2011 model.

*Prices subject to change
**Prices subject to change, excluding sensors
***Prices subject to change, including senors

Create your perfect Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today!

Winter / snow tires offer dramatic improvement in safety and performance in winter conditions including snow, ice and freezing temperatures. This improvement is especially important for vehicles that include Max Performance Summer tires as Original Equipment.
 
The Porsche Panamera and new body style Cayenne commonly come with O.E. Max Performance Summer tires and are dangerous to use in a winter environment. The few all-season Porsche tires available are not well-suited for deep snow and ice.

Tire Rack offers custom Winter/ Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for these vehicles in 18", 19" and 20" diameters. The packages come completely mounted and balanced and have the option of coming with TPMS sensors and Porsche center caps. 

Winter packages for the Panamera start at around $1,800* for the 18" fitment. This package includes the Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero Serie II tire and Sport Edition Cup 4 alloy wheel. And after you buy Pirelli tires for your Porsche, read "Breaking In New Winter Tires" to better understand how the personality and handling traits of your new tires are different than your Original Equipment.

Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero Serie II

Sport Edition Cup 4

Winter packages for the Cayenne start at around $1,300* for the 18" fitment. This package includes the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 and the Sport Edition TX8 alloy wheel. This combination of Bridgestone SUV tires and aftermarket wheels will make winter driving a breeze compared to any all weather tires you may find.

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1

Sport Edition TX8

Find the right wheels/rims and tires for your vehicle by creating a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today!

*Prices subject to change

The Sport Edition A7 has been a popular wheel both for Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages as well as year-round use. It has been around for years in the silver finish, but is now available in black. Most of the sizes available in black are 17", however there are a few 16" and 18" wheels available. Several of the BMW applications accept the original BMW center cap. Every part number for these Sport Edition wheels in black are currently in stock, so now is the perfect time to pick up a set for a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package.  

When creating your Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package, there is an 18" version available for the M3 that does not show up yet on our website for some of the more recent years. Searching by the 2008 model will bring it up, but be aware that the TPMS sensors were different for 2008-09 model compared to 2010-11.

For more information on how we ensure your wheel and tire package is properly balanced and provides you with a vibration-free driving experience, read "Tire & Wheel Package Ride Quality Confirmation."

Create your Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today!

Personally, I own a vehicle that I equip with a dedicated set of winter wheels and tires, while my other vehicle keeps the same wheels on year-round. Having the same set of wheels on my vehicle throughout the year can be a hassle when it comes time to switch tires. In my experience, it's much more convenient to have a dedicated set of wheels that allows me to install snow tires at my convenience, while saving me the cost of mounting and balancing. If you consider mounting and balancing at an average of $20 per tire, and this is done once in the fall and again in the spring, the costs quickly add up. Take a look at a few of our value-oriented winter wheel selections:

Sport Edition D5

Sport Edition CD

Sport Edition A7

If you're debating on whether or not to invest in a set of winter wheels, consider that after a few years of mounting and balancing, you will have already covered the cost of a new set of wheels! And, if you need help on choosing the proper type of wheel for your vehicle this winter, read "Alloy vs. Steel Wheels in Winter Tire & Wheel Packages."

Create your Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today!

Many Subaru Outback drivers chose their vehicle because of its symmetrical all-wheel drive that provides great accelerating and cornering grip in the rain and snow. With all of its advantages, the Outback is still limited by the amount of grip available with each tire. The right snow tire will let you take your vehicle even further.

To gain a better understanding of which snow tire will work best for your vehicle, read "Which Snow Tire: Studless Ice and Snow, Studdable Winter / Snow or Performance Winter / Snow?" Given the vehicle's moderate weight, all-wheel drive dynamics and go-anywhere intentions, I would recommend a Studless Ice and Snow tire.

Snow Tire Sizes

The ideal winter tire size for 2010+ Outbacks with a 2.5L engine is 215/70-16. This size is narrow enough to cut through moderate and deep snow and wide enough to handle hard-packed snow, ice and dry roads. Outbacks with a 3.6L engine should run 225/60-17 as 16" wheels won't clear the larger brakes of the 3.6L Outback.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Each wheel has a valve stem-mounted TPMS sensor that you can run with or without for winter driving. If you decide to run without the TPMS sensors, you'll see a warning light, but there are no functional issues associated with the light. And if you're in need of O.E. TPMS sensors, we have them available for $36* each. Your Subaru dealer will have to initialize your winter sensors in the fall and your summer sensors in the spring. For a better understanding on using TPMS sensors, read "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Servicing."

Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for 3.6L Outbacks

For 3.6L engine Outbacks, one of the best package options is the 225/60R17 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 on 17x7.5" Sport Edition A7 wheels at $936** plus shipping. The Blizzak WS70 uses Bridgestone's NanoPro-Tech silica-enhanced Tube Multicell compound for superior ice and packed-snow grip.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

Sport Edition A

*Prices subject to change
**Excluding TPMS sensors

Would you like to drive your 2005-2011 Porsche 911 (997 Chassis) twelve months a year? Well, why not invest in a set of dedicated snow tires and do it.

In order to gain a better understanding of the different types of winter / snow tires, read, "Which Snow Tire: Studless Ice and Snow, Studdable Winter / Snow or Performance Winter / Snow?" You'll find that most 911 drivers are best served with Performance Winter / Snow tires, as tires in this category help preserve the handling for this particular application.

Snow Tire Sizes

Once you've decide on which type of snow tire you would like, your next step is to pick a proper size. Most 911 drivers want to be able to drive their car as much as possible in the winter. The car's ground clearance will limit use, therefore there's little benefit to running skinnier winter tires. So if your 911 came with 235/35-19 front and 295/30-19 rear, you should continue to use these sizes. 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Each wheel has a valve stem-mounted TPMS sensor that you can run with or without for winter driving. If you decide to run without the TPMS sensors, you'll see a warning light, but there are no functional issues associated with the light. When you reinstall your summer wheels, the TPMS will work as normal once you've activated the sensors by driving your car. And if you're in need of O.E. TPMS sensors, we have them available for $110* each. For a better understanding on using TPMS sensors, read "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Servicing."

The Best Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package

The ideal Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for most 911 drivers is 235/35-19 Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D front tires and 295/30-19 rear tires on 19x8.5" Sport Edition Cup 4 wheels on the front and 19x11" Sport Edition Cup 4 wheels on the rear at $2,526.00* plus shipping. The wheels will use the original lug bolts and original Porsche center caps.

 

Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D

Sport Edition Cup

Many of my customers ask, "Why should I purchase an aluminum alloy wheel for use in the winter?"

Pound for pound, aluminum alloy wheels are stronger and lighter than steel in the same size. Any time you can decrease the rolling (unsprung) weight of your vehicle, you potentially increase braking effectiveness and reduce wear and tear on suspension components. Any vehicle weight reduction also goes a long way towards improving fuel economy. Both of these factors alone are a definite plus in winter weather. Aluminum alloy wheels also enhance the appearance of your vehicle and are sized to precise standards to meet exact fitment and performance needs. For a comparison of alloy and steel wheels, read "Alloy vs. Steel Wheels in Winter Tire & Wheel Packages."

A great alloy wheel for use in the winter is the Sport Edition A7. It is a gravity cast, anodized aluminum alloy wheel that is primed, powder coated silver with a clear finish coat. The simple casting process keeps cost down and the finish is very resilient against the harsh conditions that winter has to offer. The slightly angled open spoke design stays cleaner and less susceptible to ice and snow build-up.

The Sport Edition A7 comes in over 50 different fitments in 15" through 18" sizes with some sizes available in a new black finish. The Sport Edition A7 is "hub centric" for many BMW and Subaru applications. This can really simplify seasonal change-out without the need for centering rings that can get lost or damaged. BMW owners will find in many cases that they can use their O.E. center cap to add additional curb appeal.

For a sturdy, clean looking, low cost alternative to plain black steel wheels, pick the Winter Wonder Wheel, Sport Edition A7.

The 350Z is an awesome car for precise street driving and on the track, but not very good in the snow. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of snow tire options to greatly improve the vehicle's winter driving performance.

Visit the winter section of our Upgrade Garage and easily switch between product categories to see a complete fitment guide for your vehicle. You can also create Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages that come with all necessary hardware such as lugs, center caps ,centering rings, etc. that will allow you to switch between your different Tire & Wheel Packages (race, snow, street). To gain a better understanding of which snow tire will work best for your vehicle, read "Which Snow Tire: Studless Ice and Snow, Studdable Winter / Snow or Performance Winter / Snow?

Given the vehicle's light weight and rear-wheel drive dynamics, I would recommend a Studless Ice and Snow tire. One of the best Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for a 2005 Nissan 350Z would be the Michelin X-Ice Xi2 in 225/50-17 front tires and 225/55-17 for the rear on 17x8" Sport Edition KV5 wheels. 
 

Michelin X-Ice Xi2

Sport Edition KV5

225/55-17 rear sizing allows the driver to maintain a larger diameter in the rear so the traction control works properly. I like the Michelin X-Ice Xi2 tire because it is designed to tackle some of the coldest winter driving conditions and the 225/55-17 is a low rolling resistance tire that confirms the tire's contribution to reducing vehicle fuel consumption and emissions of CO2 gases. The look of the tire with the Sport Edition KV5's painted silver finish sealed with a clear coat makes for a great winter combination. Sport Edition rims combine quality, style and price to offer an exceptional value. For more information on this environmentally friendly tire, read "Michelin Green X."

When installing wheels on the 350Z you may notice a steel pin protruding from the front hub mounting surface. This pin is designed to prevent erroneous rotation of the tires. You must remove it with a 12mm wrench so your new wheels will fit flush against the hub.

In a previous post, I mentioned that my son and I had installed a nice Tire & Wheel Package on his car. We had originally intended to purchase a little lighter, more expensive wheel, but after a fender bender cut into our budget, we began exploring other options. This time using a sharper pencil. We still wanted as good a performing tire and wheel combination as we could now afford. We had already decided to install a plus zero fitment. We increased the tire size and the wheel width without going to a larger diameter wheel.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS came equipped with 205/55-16 tires mounted on 16x6" alloy wheels. In place of the stock package we installed 225/50-16 Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport tires mounted on 16x7" wheels. This gave us a wider tire with a larger potential contact patch without changing speedometer and odometer accuracy, as both sizes measure the same (24.9") diameter.

The wheel we chose was a great looking, sturdy, lightweight and reasonably priced, Sport Edition D5. We decided on the Sport Edition D5 for several reasons: at 18 lbs. it is relatively light for its size. It is a low-pressure cast (reduces voids in the metal) aluminum alloy wheel that is shot peened to relieve stresses in the finished product. Each wheel then undergoes X-ray and ultrasound inspection to ensure continuity of the casting process. The anodized aluminum alloy wheel is then primed and powder coated silver. Each wheel then receives a high gloss clear finish coat. The finish on this wheel gives it very strong resilience to the harsh elements of sun, rain, detergents and even winter weather conditions. The Sport Edition D5 also has the extra benefit of certification standards from JWL and VIA. These quality inspections and tests are much more stringent than those required of wheels manufactured as Original Equipment on many applications. All of this in one wheel at a great low price.

The combination of the wider but lighter wheel reduces rolling or "unsprung" weight and the wider, Ultra High Performance Summer Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport really transformed the handling on this car. It corners like it's on rails now. You truly can afford performance, if you know where and how to look.

In order to purchase the correct snow tire, you should decide which performance category works best for your driving style and your typical winter weather.  The three major categories are: Studless Ice and Snow, Studdable Winter / Snow and Performance Winter / Snow tires.

Studless Ice and Snow tires give you optimum ice and packed snow grip, but are less responsive on dry roads especially if you're a fast driver with a sportier vehicle. To achieve high traction levels on snow and ice they do offer less grip on dry roads and your vehicle will not respond as crisply or quickly to steering inputs, under hard braking or under hard acceleration.

Studdable Winter / Snow can be run studded or unstudded. When studded, they'll give comparable ice and packed snow grip but they will be even less responsive on dry roads. When unstudded, they'll lack ice and packed snow grip but perform well in moderate and deep snow.

Performance Winter / Snow tires will exhibit the above dry-road deficiencies to a much lesser degree. If your vehicle came with summer performance tires, the Performance Winter / Snow tires will be more comparable in steering response, acceleration grip, braking and cornering grip. They'll give up ice and packed snow grip. Performance Winter / Snow tires will wear slightly better compared to Studless Ice and Snow tires, especially during the warmer early and late winter days.  All snow tires will have more tread noise and this will vary from tire to tire, but Performance Winter / Snow tires tend to be quieter.

Specific Tires

Studless Ice and Snow tires tend be available in higher profile tire sizes and include the following:

• Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
• Michelin X-Ice Xi2
• Dunlop Graspic DS-3

I f you go with Studless Ice and Snow, you should also consider going with a narrower tire as the narrower tire cuts through deeper snow better especially for a lighter car like a MINI Cooper.

Studdable Winter / Snow  options include the following:

• General Altimax Arctic
• Firestone Winterforce
  

The Altimax Arctic is slightly better in ice and packed snow and is quieter than the the Winterforce. The Winterforce is more effective in deeper snow.

The Performance Winter / Snow tires tires tend to be available in lower profile sizes and include the following:

• Dunlop Wintersport 3D
• Pirelli 210 Sottozero
• Pirelli 210 Sottozero Serie 2
• Pirelli 240 Sottozero
• Pirelli 240 Sottozero Serie 2
• Michelin Alpin PA3
• Michelin Primacy Alpin PA3
• Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60

Depending on the exact size, your choices may be previous seasons' versions or SUV/light truck versions of the above tires.

So should you get a Studless Ice and Snow, a Studdable Winter / Snow or a Performance Winter / Snow tire?  It depends on your car, where you live, how you drive on dry roads and how you want to balance the above compromises.

For example, my brother lives in Marion, Indiana, about an hour northeast of Indianapolis. He got the Blizzak WS60 Studless Ice and Snow in 235/40-18 on Sport Edition A7 wheels for his 2008 BMW M3. He chose this tire because central Indiana is more apt to get ice storms and there's the potential for heavier snow that wouldn't be quickly cleared from the country roads between offices. He's willing to drive slower on dry roads.

If we look at a hypothetical driver in Louisville with the same car but a heavier foot, he would be better served with  Performance Winter / Snow Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D tires in 235/40-18 front and 255/40-18 rear. Louisville's milder weather allows him to emphasize dry road performance, but still have emergency snow capability.

Let it snow.

Yes! We have winter / snow tires for the Chrysler/Dodge SRT8 vehicles — the Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 and the Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow are available in the Original Equipment sizes as low as $1,216* for the set of four.

While you can outfit your original wheels with the O.E. 20" sizes, you may also want to consider the 18" Sport Edition KV5 wheel and tire package. This is one of only a few wheels available for the SRT8, so place your order early before they're all gone. Paired with the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 minus size winter / snow tires and TPMS sensors you can get everything for just $1,360* plus shipping.

*Pricing subject to change.

Equipped with large brakes, the BMW X6 had very few 19" snow tire and wheel options available last winter. However, as snow will be falling before we know it, new options are now available for this application.

The Sport Edition WX5 offers a clean, classic 5-spoke design that will clear larger brakes and will also accept your BMW's original center cap. The Original Equipment X6 tires are run-flats that come with no spare, therefore many drivers may be better off with a run-flat winter tire. For great overall snow performance and good handling on dry and wet winter roads, the Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow RFT is a good choice.  

Creating a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel package with this combination would be $2100 plus shipping. However, if you decide you want to move away from run-flat tires, the package is $1760 plus shipping with the non-fun-flat Scorpion Ice & Snow.

And if you decide to purchase the Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow RFT, be sure to read "Tips on Mounting Run-Flat Tires" to ensure the set is properly installed.

Prices subject to change

It's late in the snow season, but if you need some snow traction for your M3 we have a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for you. The M3 comes with a staggered wheel and tire set up, but for the winter it's best to downsize.

Tire Rack recommends a 235/40-18 tire size on the front and rear for the best traction. We have one wheel that fits — the Sport Edition A7 — and you can marry that up with the Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D. This set up will give you the best traction in the snow and ice and will also allow you to rotate the tires as needed.

Thinking of going to a winter set-up on your Toyota, Honda or Lexus and really don't want to add a tire pressure monitoring system sensors to your new wheels because you'll have to go back to your dealer for calibration?

To date, these states require that your TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) always be functional!

• HAWAII  
• RHODE ISLAND
• VERMONT
• WEST VIRGINIA

So what should you do if you really love the idea of a simple Sport Edition wheel with Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 winter / snow tires on your 2010 Toyota Camry, but you really don't want to spend the money for the sensors and calibration.

You are going to have to bite the bullet and maintain the functionality of the TPMS. Depending on your vehicle, there may even be some do-it-yourself calibration tools available so you don't have to pay a visit to the dealership. But in the end, you are safer and your tires will perform at their best when your system is properly calibrated and tire pressures are monitored and remain at optimum levels. And with tires optimized for the season, too, it's a win-win situation.

Sport Edition Wheels are definitely the the talk for winter. These wheels are popular for our Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for passenger vehicles and sport sedans this winter season because of their strong construction, price, and appearance. The construction and finish of these wheels provide the customer with exceptional durability and low brake dust maintenance.

The Sport Edition F10 has created a stir among our wheel and tire package-seeking customers. This wheel is one-piece cast, reasonably light, and very stylish in silver paint.