[v8ismyheart]

I’m trying to decide between two tire sizes for my 2013 Toyota Corolla—195/65R15 and 205/60R15—and I’m having a hard time figuring out which one would be the better choice. Both sizes are pretty close, but I know that even slight differences in tire size can affect things like ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency. I’m really curious to hear from anyone who’s tried either of these sizes on their Corolla, or maybe even both, and can share their experiences.

From what I understand, the 195/65R15 is the standard size for my Corolla, and it’s served me well so far in terms of a smooth ride and decent fuel economy. However, I’m considering switching to the 205/60R15 to get a bit more grip and possibly better handling, especially in wet conditions. But I’m also concerned that the slightly wider tire might make the ride a bit stiffer or reduce fuel efficiency.

Has anyone here made this switch or run both of these sizes on their Corolla? Did you notice any significant differences in how the car handled, the comfort level of the ride, or even things like road noise and tread wear? I’d really appreciate any insights or advice you can offer—it’s always better to learn from someone else’s experience before making a decision like this. I want to make sure I’m making the right choice for my driving needs and keeping my Corolla running at its best. Thanks in advance for your help!

I’ve actually run both of those tire sizes on my 2013 Corolla, so I can give you some firsthand insight.
Starting with the 195/65R15, which is the standard size, you’re spot on about it being a good balance for ride comfort and fuel efficiency. It’s a reliable choice, especially if you’re looking to keep things smooth and maintain the fuel economy you’re used to. The ride quality is pretty cushy with this size, and you won’t notice much in the way of road noise or any unusual tread wear, as long as you’re sticking with a decent tire brand.
Now, when I switched to the 205/60R15, the first thing I noticed was the improved grip and handling. The slightly wider tire gives you more contact with the road, which can make the car feel more planted, especially in wet conditions or when taking corners. It’s not a massive difference, but it’s noticeable enough that you might appreciate it if you like a bit more responsiveness in your driving.
However, there are trade-offs. The ride did get a bit firmer with the 205s, and I noticed a slight drop in fuel efficiency—nothing dramatic, but it’s there. Also, the wider tire might pick up a bit more road noise, though it wasn’t enough to be a dealbreaker for me. As for tread wear, I didn’t see any abnormal wear patterns, but I did rotate my tires regularly and kept an eye on the pressure.
If you prioritize comfort and fuel economy, sticking with the 195/65R15 is probably the safer bet. But if you’re looking for a bit more performance, especially in terms of handling, the 205/60R15 could be worth the slight trade-off in comfort and efficiency.
In the end, it comes down to what you value more in your daily driving. Both sizes work well on the Corolla, so you can’t really go wrong—just depends on whether you lean more towards comfort or a touch of extra grip and handling. Hope this helps you make your decision!