Can anyone recommend a brand of winter tires for the RX330?

Is a separate set of rims for the winter tires a good idea? Is it more for protecting the original rims from winter conditions?


Thanks.

 

check these posts. JRB put on Blizzak WS-50 and rims.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...hreadid=103399

 

Also consider what you will save by not having to remount and balance your tires twice a year. This can get very costly plus it puts a lot of wear and tear on the tires and makes them susceptible to developing slow leaks around the bead. You can recover what you spend on separate wheels probably in about 4-5 years if you choose a moderately priced set, plus as you note you do protect the stock wheels by not exposing them to harsh winter conditions. Definitely worth the extra initial investment if you own (not lease) your car and plan to keep it for 4+ years.

P.S. The Blizzak WS-50 an excellent choice, and to my knowledge is your only option in the stock 18 inch size.

 

I agree with JRB. However, if you live in a region that has well plowed roads, then you can wait for the second season before getting a set of snow tires. I took my wife's RX330 with the OEM 18" Goodyear Eagle RS-A (235/55R18) tires with 3500 miles out for a spin (not litterally) yesterday and it performed well in 3 inches of snow. The all-season tires are lacking in lateral grip in the slippery stuff, but held up well in braking and acceleration. Of course, this is because these tires are new. I will definitely switch to the Brigestone Blizzak WS-50 tires next year (Except of course if Nokian starts producing the proper size).