KevinB

New to forum. Just got a 2011 Q5 standard and tried searching to see if anyone replaced their 235/60/18's with 235/55/18's. I'm aware of the pitfalls of speed mismatch but will this effect things such as the center of gravity for roll-over or have any other negative consequences? Looking to lower the vehicle a bit and improve handling. May also just go with 19's for sharper handling.

Doc@tirerack

I'd rather have you try a V rated (or higher) tire in the stock size than change sizes. The difference in overall diameter between the stock 235/60R18 and 235/55R18 is just about one inch, so you would only be lowering the car 1/2" closer to the ground as a result.

Reggie

Going with 19's will definitely improve the steering response - and does not make the road that much harsher. I did go with 18's for winter tires for our 011 Q5

KevinB

Thanks Doc & Reggie. I found some OEM 19's with new Conti LX sports for $1k on ebay and the response did improve as well as the look. The conti's do squeal a bit when on a sharp turn such as into the garage which tells me they're not an ideal sport tire. They are however a softer compliant ride just as the TireRack tests found. I'll keep the 18's for winters which I've grown to like Pirelli Sotto's for my winter driving. Once I get used to the Q5 and want a real drivers car I'll look at the Porshe Macan which shares a bit of the Audi Q5 DNA.

Thanks again and I'll end this post.