philgv8

Good morning guys, I need some help here please.

I am looking to replace my Discovery with a Q7. The one I am currently considering is a 2012 3.0 Tdi S Line Plus, which is the only UK model at my price that has the specification I want. Trouble is they all come with 21” 295/35 tyres.

My problem is that the first two miles of every journey from home is on single track potholed roads, which involves pulling over onto grass/mud/ruts/fields to pass other vehicles. No problem with the Disco on all-terrain 55 profile tyres, but it concerns me on the Q7.

Firstly, can I get a tyre that will give me enough traction on grass in the 21” size, and secondly will it give enough rim protection for potholes?

My other option is to swop over to 20” wheels from an S Line or 19” from an SE, which could raise my profile to 45 or 50 respectively. This would give me a much wider choice of (cheaper) tyres and soften the ride. I am more interested in practicality than looks here.

I have also got in the habit of driving up kerbs in the Disco without a thought, I don’t really want a 4x4 vehicle that I have to be precious about in case I damage the wheels. And just once in a while we do get snow, so mobility here is a must, although I will run all year on the same wheels.

I have been through the informative posts on here, but unable to find any specific answers to my questions. Hope you can help…

chingwodapigu

You're unlikely to find anything suitable in a 21" tire size. The 4L0 first generation Q7 was available with 18" wheels and 255/55-18 tires which you could go with as well. If you're willing to modify your brake calipers, you could even do like one forum member Dreadlocks did, and mount a set of 17" Porsche Cayenne wheels with BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires, which would be great off road. I'm sure he could let you know a good size in an 18" tire that would fit your Q7.

philgv8

Thanks your reply, I guess you are confirming my thoughts really.
I am just looking for a road car with some off-road ability, likely will go with a M & S or very mild A/T tyre, hence the 19" or 20" will suffice.
I have some 20" local to me earmarked, it just seems crazy having to change wheels to maintain the off-road ability of a 4x4 :-)