Hi everyone,
I have searched but didn't find much discussion surrounding winter or snow tires. (the rather weak search engine doesn't help).

Does anyone think there would be a problem in using 215/55R17's? They are the same diameter as the stock 235/50R17s (within 0.2%), but will they be happy on the 7.5" wheels? Before anyone asks, I want narrower winter tires because they simply dig better on snow-packed roads. Wide tires tend to float around or "plow" too much. Plus narrower and higher profile can be a lot cheaper!

Aside from size, does anyone recommend a specific brand? Road noise is important to me, so if you have used some particularly quiet (or particularly noisy) winter tires let me know.

I'm running 225/55R17 Blizaks in the winter and they do just fine. Different size, but a really good tread pattern for the snow. They are noisier than my summer tires, but you've got to expect that with winter tires.

Really? Nobody can tell me if a 215 will fit on the 7.5" rim?

why wouldn't it fit? it's only 2CM smaller than stock.

According to the Tire Rack website (www.tirerack.com), a 215/55 x17 winter tire will fit on a 6" - 7.5" rim width.

wow who would have thought to go to a tire website? Thought it made more sense to ask here then complain when a timely answer didnt arrive.

:bowrofl: wow who would have thought to go to a tire website? Thought it made more sense to ask here then complain when a timely answer didnt arrive.

wow who would have thought to go to a tire website? Thought it made more sense to ask here then complain when a timely answer didnt arrive.
So, what's your recomendation on quiet winter tires? Oh, I see, you don't actually want to contribute to the discussion, you just want to create noise.

Thanks to those who replied in a contructive manner.

I have since discovered that my new '06 will have 17x7.0" rims, so these tires will match up well instead of being borderline.

Actually if you scroll up I did contribute...just teasing you anyhow. If you did a SEARCH you'd find that I have Michelin Pilot Alpin's....snow performance is good and they are VERY noise on the dry highway. The worst part is the are even very noisy at low speeds (again dry pavement). But dry handling is still pretty darn good. I've heard nothing but praise for the Blizzak's...so when I buy again those are what I'll go with.

Thanks for the thumbs-down on the Alpins. Most of my daily commute is on the highway so I need something that won't drive me wonky with road whine. I think that I will end up with some type of European-style winter tyre :) since they tend to be less aggressive and more suited to hwy driving.