Wheel Opinions For Skyactiv

[JC79G35]

I am beginning an exploratory research on wheels for my Skyactiv 3.

The wheels will serve two purposes... 1. enhance the look of my 3 and 2. have them be a bit lighter for performance/fuel econ. I am looking at either the stock 16 size or a 17. BTW, if I read correctly, the stock 16's are 19 lbs.

I am going to do auto-X this spring on basically everything except my intake/pads/springs at stock and just go from there (not being super competitive, just having fun). I already got an idea about where to go next (Most likely changing the H&R springs, waiting to see what Corksport comes out with).


Anyway, I really like the new Kojin's Enkei is coming out with, but I have to see the cost and the weight of the wheels.

I did some research on Tire Rack and saw the good old RPF-1's in 17's are about 14.5 pounds. I also saw some Kosei K1's which were not too expensive and for a 17x7 weighed 15.1 lbs. I was wondering if anyone uses Kosei's and what was their thoughts on them.

Finally, on a budget and with good looks, I saw the Enkei Performance line RSF5. THey weigh 18 lbs (1 lb less then stock in a 16 x 7 size). Wanted to get some thoughts on Enkei performance as well

 

[color0]

For pure fuel economy you're going to want 16" RPF1's, I think they get down to somewhere obscene like 11-12lbs a wheel. Kosei K1's are also a good choice and they honestly look a little better than the RPF1's in small sizes.

For an easy cheap alternative, 16" FD3S factory wheels are 15lbs a corner, look good painted black and they fit easily onto the Skyactiv3.

Keep in mind that major fuel economy gains are done at the tires. Bridgestone Ecopias are the choice for the eco-modder gang, the stock Turanzas are so junk in every measure (rolling resistance, traction, treadwear) that they should be the first thing you throw out whether you are going for daily driven convenience, high mpg's, or high performance.

 

[armycop]

For fuel economy, smaller diameter wheels will give you an advantage. But for appearance, the 17's look better.

 

[JC79G35]

Thanks for the advice so far!

The Turanzas suck from what I read so far.

I was thinking of going with Continental DSW as those have been quite popular. Not sure on how they are with economy, but can't be worse then the Turanzas

 

[DougNuts]

I was thinking of going with Continental DSW as those have been quite popular.

I have the Conti DWS on my Caddy and the wife's 3 (stock 17's) and love them. The Kuhmo Ecsta LX Platinums are also good tires, her car had a brand new set on it when we bought it.