Compromise tires for 4GS Non-F RWD
03-02-15, 09:15 AM
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Compromise tires for 4GS Non-F RWD
I recently purchased a CPO 2013 GS RWD (non F-Sport). This is my first Lexus. It had 18" wheels and the original 235/45R18 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050 94Y tires. These tires impressed me with steering response and overall handling. But they were fairly worn and pretty noisy.
After a little research on these forums I decided to try a set of Michelin Primacy MXM4 94V. Well, the ride became buttery smooth and road noise was minimal. But handling also turned to butter. Almost no road feel, sloppy steering, and a boat-like ride. Grip is generally good but it's hard to appreciate now.
On a scale of 1-10, where 1=comfort and 10=performance, I'm guessing that those Dunlops rate a 9 while these Michelins rate a 2. So now I'm searching for tires that might give me a 6-7 on this scale. Perhaps a tire in the category "Ultra High Performance All Season"? Or, is there a performance summer tire that is less stiff/noisy than most? Perhaps Michelin Pilot Super Sport? At this point I'm not overly concerned with tread life ratings.
I've read through the list of tires recommended by TireRack and other outlets. Would like to hear from those who have continued tire experiments on the base 4GS with 18" wheels. By the way, I live in southern California, so cold weather doesn't matter, and rain is minimal.
After a little research on these forums I decided to try a set of Michelin Primacy MXM4 94V. Well, the ride became buttery smooth and road noise was minimal. But handling also turned to butter. Almost no road feel, sloppy steering, and a boat-like ride. Grip is generally good but it's hard to appreciate now.
On a scale of 1-10, where 1=comfort and 10=performance, I'm guessing that those Dunlops rate a 9 while these Michelins rate a 2. So now I'm searching for tires that might give me a 6-7 on this scale. Perhaps a tire in the category "Ultra High Performance All Season"? Or, is there a performance summer tire that is less stiff/noisy than most? Perhaps Michelin Pilot Super Sport? At this point I'm not overly concerned with tread life ratings.
I've read through the list of tires recommended by TireRack and other outlets. Would like to hear from those who have continued tire experiments on the base 4GS with 18" wheels. By the way, I live in southern California, so cold weather doesn't matter, and rain is minimal.
03-02-15, 12:26 PM
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I guess one problem (I just learned) is that the Pilot Sport A/S 3s are not available now.
No production date set, according to Michelin (via phone call).
No production date set, according to Michelin (via phone call).
03-02-15, 12:49 PM
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Lexus Test Driver
03-02-15, 05:42 PM
#6
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I swapped my stock 18" Dunlops for Pirelli P7s All Season tires, my car is a RWD but feels like an AWD at times because of the amount of grip with the Pirellis. Im sold for life with this brand. 
03-02-15, 06:12 PM
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Lexus Test Driver
Like this guy with Dunlop...
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03-02-15, 06:19 PM
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03-02-15, 06:22 PM
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03-02-15, 06:23 PM
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03-02-15, 06:37 PM
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03-02-15, 07:22 PM
#12
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look at those guns, i curl 125 lbs dumbbells each arm Ron Burgundy style!
Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus - 235/45/R18 - 94V
UTQG: 700 A A
Max Load: 1477 lbs.
Max Inflation: 44 psi
Tread Depth: 10/32"
Tire Weight: 25 lbs.
Rim Width Range: 7.5-9"
Measure Rim Width: 8"
Section Width: 9.3"
Tread Width: 8.4"
Overall Diameter: 26.5"
Originally Posted by ral2531
What is the load and speed rating of the Pirelli P7s you chose?
Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus - 235/45/R18 - 94V
UTQG: 700 A A
Max Load: 1477 lbs.
Max Inflation: 44 psi
Tread Depth: 10/32"
Tire Weight: 25 lbs.
Rim Width Range: 7.5-9"
Measure Rim Width: 8"
Section Width: 9.3"
Tread Width: 8.4"
Overall Diameter: 26.5"
03-02-15, 07:32 PM
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03-05-15, 08:41 AM
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Getting back on topic: Has anyone put Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on a non-Fsport 4GS?
(Assuming RWD, 18" wheels). How did this ride/handle?
(Assuming RWD, 18" wheels). How did this ride/handle?
03-06-15, 12:41 PM
#15
Those PSS are great tires but the guy at costco says 12 to 15k or sooner your getting new ones. Look at A/S 3's.