Performance Q&A: 19's or 20's
 

As a new owner of the IS250 AWD I desperately need to change out the wheels without modifying the suspension. I like the "ride" but hate the stock wheels. My question is a simple one

Which is better for the ride of the car.

I was looking at the following:


Lexani CVX55 - 20 (pictured below)
or
Vossen VVS083 - Black Machined - F: 19x8.5 / R: 19x10

For better ride, 19's are gonna be better. The bigger you go, the more your gonna sacrifice in ride comfort. Tire size makes a big difference here too though, if your running a 225/35/19 the ride is gonna be less comfortable than a 235/45/19, for example (assuming there's no stretch). If your trynna keep a stock ride and want some decent looking wheels, 18's with the right size tires are probably best, but they won't look as good as a 19 ;)

If you're not gonna lower...a 225 or 235/35/19 will work best for ride quality. If you run 20's your sidewall will have to be a 30 series which makes the sidewall narrower making you feel bumps more.

If you're not going to lower, 19s. 18s would be more comfortable (with a thicker sidewall) but won't look as good at stock ride height.

is 250 awd with 20 inch staggered wheels...
for me the ride is almost the same as the stock wheels...2 inch drop

https://www.clublexus.com/gallery/da...71255_o_2_.jpg

https://www.clublexus.com/gallery/da..._6605236_n.jpg

go with 20 inch wheels, coilcovers as well

Many IS owners choose to go with Vossen wheels in 19 or 20" setups. Gallery here

http://www.vossenwheels.com/gallery/...tos/lexus.aspx

The 19s will give you some extra tire but to be honest 19/20 they will ride pretty similar. We offer 20" wheel setups as well that many IS owners are happy with. The Lexus suspension really does wonders.

These are 20"s

http://www.vossenwheels.com/Gallery/...VVSCV1_e3a.jpg

Thanks for al the feedback. I don't plan on doing anything except wheels and MAYBE tint. I have two other "project" cars and I just can't stand the stock wheels on this car. Even though it is every tempting. I love everything else on the car as it is.