My '11 CS is on order, pretty much loaded up with all of the suspension goodies. I ordered the stock 18" wheels and will make a decision whether to upgrade when the truck arrives in two months.

From a handling point of view, what is the optimal wheel size for these trucks? I won't be tracking it but will drive it fairly hard. I don't mind paying extra for better handling but want to stop where larger diameter starts to interfere with ride quality (I have the TT for maximum fun). Should I consider any of the larger wheel sizes or a specific size to optimize cornering, lane changes, etc?

Advice appreciated, thanks much.

 

Bill,
I can only chime in on my old CS which had the 18's. The difference for me was the tires. It came with Pirelli's and then I switched out to the Michelin's which made a huge difference in handling and ride quality. As far as the new one I test drove, it had the 20's which seemed fine. I am going to order the 20" wheels since they look alot better filling up those wheel wells. I am definately ordering the PTV-plus and the premium plus package which adds the air suspension which I need. Hope this helps.

Jen

 

21" for looks 20" for ride.

 

I ordered the 20" as well. I had 20"s on the X6 and, once I swapped out the run flats (for Michelins) really liked the ride/handling balance. Thought the 21" turbo wheels for the CS were a great look but felt that it tipped the balance a little too much for how I will use the truck.

 

I have 20" sports technos and they've been just awesome.

 

I run 18's in winter and 20 in summer. The 18's ride is so much nicer, but the 20's look soo much better. 19 may be a nice compromise.

 

Thanks for the feedback, guys. Looks like 19" or 20" is the way to go.

 

I haven't looked recently, but you would have more choices w/ 20" rims versus 19". Good luck!

 

If you ever intend to take it off road, 18" are the only choice. Any kind of half way serious rock climbing requires a tire with plenty of air, and the low profiles will NOT work. Not sure why anyone would buy 21's except for "show".

 

18s for trails, 20s for street. i don't think it necesssary to go 21s or higher for looks. 20s look great and nicely proportioned, IMHO.

 

20 inchers for the win !

 

My V6 has 18"s. My new CS has 19". It is a noticeable difference. I'm not sure I'd want 20s myself. I have the GT3 for a firm ride. I don't want it in my the truck.

I think 19" is best match.

 

as long as there is air suspension, 20" rides very well.

 

Hmmm, didn't realize that the PASM was that sensitive. Thanks for the info.

I'm really having trouble deciding on the wheel design. I wish the stock wheels weren't so pedestrian. Anyone know where I can research RUF wheels for the Cayenne?

Thanks again for the input!

 

The Turbo II wheels are forged, whereas I believe all of the 19" and 20" wheels offered on the Cayenne are cast. This would at least help to explain why the Turbo IIs are so $$$. I can't find the specs. anywhere, but forged wheels are generally lighter, as well as stronger. So even though the Turbo IIs are 21", there may not be much of a weight penalty, as unsprung weight is a big factor in ride quality. Yes, the shorter sidewall will add stiffness, but as mentioned above the air suspension w/PASM will help to mitigate that.