[faztaz]

Looking to get a set of 18" rims/rubber as a winter set. The car has 19" now and only want to go -1 in size for cosmesis and handling. Any suggestions of good looking but heavy duty rims that wont bend/crack if I hit a pothole/curb (not that I plan on it). Thanks.

Also what winter tires are people using the Northeast?
I am between the Blizzacks and Michellin Ice.

[BeeMdblU]

Nokian here on 18 reps

[UncleJohn]

Going with Michelin X-Ice Xi3 on replicas. New for this year I believe so there are no survey results on TR yet but the reviews have been positive, and the Xi2 rated well overall. Blizzak WS70 was my 2nd choice.

[nico007]

I just got new winter wheels for the 35i. I ordered them on TireRack.com and went for the Anthracite Rial Salerno in 17" with LM50 Blizzak in 225/60R17.
They don't look as good as my 19" but I think it still looks fine. I am surprised by how it improved the comfort of the car and how quieter it is. Obviously the handling is degraded but it is still fine.
Total cost was $1500, the wheels arrived the next day and I can confirm 17" wheels fit on the 35i.
If only it could snow now...

[etelbot]

Originally Posted by nico007

I just got new winter wheels for the 35i. I ordered them on TireRack.com and went for the Anthracite Rial Salerno in 17" with LM50 Blizzak in 225/60R17.
They don't look as good as my 19" but I think it still looks fine. I am surprised by how it improved the comfort of the car and how quieter it is. Obviously the handling is degraded but it is still fine.
Total cost was $1500, the wheels arrived the next day and I can confirm 17" wheels fit on the 35i.
If only it could snow now...

Totally echo that. I'm running 235/50/R18s non-RFTs for winter. I cant believe how much softer the ride is vs the 19s. Not as fun to take twisties on but it is a more relaxing experience. Hitting bumps in the road is not the annoyance it is with the 19s. Bring on the snow!