I'm ready to pull the trigger on a new set of summer wheels/tires. I found an 18x7.5 wheel I really like & I think I want to run 215/40/18 tires. My car is currently being lowered 1.25 inches. Will this be Ok? I don't want a super harsh ride so hoping going with a 40 series sidewall instead of 35 will help. Any suggestions/advice? The car currently has 16s and I really like the look of 18s (The 17s just don't seem to be that much of an upgrade). Thanks guys!

 

I just put on that size tire. I love them, they are about a 1/4" bigger than stock diameter. If you are getting away from run flats they are even better.

 

I use 215/40-18 on my 18x7" wheels. I like that tire size.
With 7.5" wheels you can even go to 225/35 but need to be careful about rear tire rubbing.
What is the offset on the wheels you plan to purchase?
With 18" wheels and lowered 1.25" you can have rubbing issues in the rear depending on the wheel offset.
My 215/40-18 with 7" and 37mm offset wheels, rub on the outside rear with JCW springs (lowered about 0.6"). I was able to eliminate the rubbing by trimming the wheel arch and wheel well liner.
Since you will be lowered more and have 7.5" wheels you will need more offset than 37mm to make sure you do not rub on outside.

 

Quikmni, how did you like your 215's on your 7" wheels? Did the tire look too fat? You think I should go with 205 or 215 on the 18x7 OZ Superleggera?

 

With a lowered suspension and wider than OEM wheel you won't have much clearance for a taller and wider than OEM tire size. Your options would be to trim the plastic wheel arch inner edge with a dremmel tool and/or increase rear negative camber by adding adjustable lower control arms.

Best bet is to stick with OEM 205/40-18 and go with a smoother riding comfortable but good handling tire like Michelin Pilot Super Sport.

If you value comfort and low noise and longer (540) treadlife over handling, then in 215/35-18 for $149 on special at tirerack is Continental ExtremeContact DWS a very comfortable UHP All Season tire. Although not as sharp handling as other tires, with 35 series sidewall and XL load rating it should be comparable to other 40 series sidewall tires.

 

I really like 215 on the 7" wheel. I think they look good and not too fat for the wheel. I used 215/40-17 on my 2003 and 215/40-18 on my 2006. Attached is a photo.