Need Help 20" or 18" Wheels

[caseyg51]

I need some help. Can anyone tell me the good & bad of 20" vs 18" wheels on the new 2013 Explorer. I'm close to making the deal but would like to have this one option cleared up.
Thanks to all.

 

[Limited02]

The only "bad" that I see is that 20's might ride a little more harsh. I'd suggest test driving one with the 18's over some rougher roads and then slip over to one with 20's and drive the same route. Then decide for yourself if the difference is that great.

I myself would pick 20's because they fit the look of the 2011+ Explorers. I have 20's on my 2002 and I love them and would not go any bigger or smaller. As far as price, you will pay a touch more for a 20" tire than a 18", but not enough in my opinion to call it a deal breaker.

I vote 20's!!!! Welcome to EF Forum by the way

 

[Kazer]

20s for sure.

 

[pnwtechie]

Depends on what you plan to do with your Ex.

If you plan to off road, 18's are likely your better bet.
* More tire = less chance of bending the rim
* 18" Tires cheaper to replace ($199ea vs. $306ea for Michelin Latitude Tour from Tirerack.com, for apples to apples comparison)
* 18" Rims are cheaper to replace and easier to find. ($200ea vs $350-painted 20's to$400 polished 20's, source: Originalwheels.com)

Get 20's if you want:
* The looks of a bigger wheel/less tire
* Slightly better handling (but worse ride)
* 7% drop in Torque (http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/math_wheels.html), decrease stopping force (see previous link for more info) and small penalty in MPG (Heavier wheel and tire combo)

Also, my experience with polished rims is that they do not stay pretty for long. After while, the coating wears off and it looks ugly. Painted wheels will likely look better longer..