Browsing through the new Toyota Prado specs I see that the tyre size differs between the new VX and TX models, although the engine type and body are the same.
The VX tyre size is 265/60 R18 while the TX is 265/65 R17. What is the significance in this and would it be beneficial to ask for the 265/60 R18 tyre to be fitted to the TX model?
Why would Toyota bring out the two models with different tyre sizes where, for all intents and purposes, all the other basic specs are the same?
RICHARD RIDGE – By e-mail
In theory, larger diameter tyres should make a vehicle slightly more comfortable, but the lower profile could have the opposite effect.
For these reasons we doubt whether many people will feel the difference between the above two sizes while driving.
Also, the 17-inch tyre has a rolling circumference only 4 mm greater than the 18-inch tyre, so that the two cars have practically identical gearing.
Large diameter tyres are perceived by most people to look better than tyres with a smaller diameter, and we suspect this is why they were chosen for the more expensive VX model.
