I'm buying a Volkswagen Golf with 18-inch wheels - is this a good idea? | Ask Honest John

I'm buying a Volkswagen Golf with 18-inch wheels - is this a good idea?

I am just about to sign up for a Volkswagen Golf Mk 7 GT 2.0-litre diesel. It's an ex-demonstrator and has a few extras with it, including 18-inch alloys in lieu of 17-inch as standard. What are implications of this change, regarding ride, wear and replacement? Also, the dealer is offering a 3-year insurance deal for £299 that covers the cost of damaged tyre replacements, up to five per year. Is this worth considering in light of the 18-inch wheels and tyres?

Asked on 6 July 2013 by DB, Dronfield,

Answered by Honest John

It means a harder ride, shorter tyre life, both tyres and rims more susceptible to damage and tyres more expensive to replace. There are no advantages, unless you propose taking it on racing circuit track days. The tyre insurance can be worthwhile, but the sales commission on it will probably be 200 per cent. You should get that cheaper from an independent broker.

Tags: wheels and tyres wheel sizes

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