Tires- Whats the best tire for smooth ride and noise 205. 45 .17 ? I know it's been discussed hundreds of times,and I know most agree on one brand. I'm looking for a set. Thanks...John

 

Stock tires are 215/50-17 but you could fit 205/45-17
Michelin, Cooper, Toyo, Goodyear are all good tires
I have Cooper tires on now, no problems.

 

Sleeper has 225/50-17 in his , maybe he’ll chime in later.

 

OK, I should fess up, I'm buying a 2014 Mini Cooper Clubman. It has a brand new set of 205 45 17 Perilli P Zero Nero tires. They are the performance tires with bad reviews as for as ride ,and potholes cause severe damage to the wheels, etc.
I was hoping for suggestions for brands because I'm after smooth ride instead of high speed handling. I'll probably trade in the Perlli 's for better tires
No ,I'm not getting rid of my '08 Panel, The Mini is an addition and daily driver. It's coming from Tucson ,Ariz. This is what it may look like in the future , it's British racing green with black tinted side windows...John

 

Well. Guess I'll just delete my other post.
My wife used to have a Mini Cooper S. Good luck trying to get a "smooth" ride from it.

 

Better to find a mini forum, they'll know better about max tire size.

 

Thanks, I didn't get the 'S with the firm suspension and the turbo direct injection. They are having the same problems as the HHR SS . Walnut blasting intakes and coking of the valves. The are installing oil catch cans.and have problems with valve seals and excessive oil useage. that's why I got the one with the basic motor.
Maybe this should fall under the catagory of "What would you replace your HHR with". But don't think I'll replace my panel any time soon...John

 

My wife's was a older model with the 6 speed. 2002 or 2003, can't remember. She put 134k on it with no engine issues. Was totaled when she got squashed between a Chevy Suburban and some little foreign sedan.( she wasn't hurt but got a good case of "whiplash" for the 3rd time)

 

Sorry to hear that, glad she was OK.
I got the 6 sp auto. with 47000 miles. I post some pics when the transport co. gets it here .
Guess I'm basically looking for the brand and type of tire not necessarily the size. John

 

Michelin