Finding the right tire size for your 2017 Chevy Cruze can feel overwhelming with so many options available. We’ve all been there – standing in the tire shop wondering if we’re making the right choice for our vehicle’s performance and safety.
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze comes with different tire configurations depending on your trim level and whether you’re driving the sedan or hatchback model. Understanding these specifications isn’t just about replacing worn tires; it’s about maintaining optimal fuel efficiency handling and ensuring your vehicle performs exactly as Chevrolet designed it to.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about your Cruze’s tire requirements including the standard sizes for each trim level and what these numbers actually mean for your driving experience. By the end you’ll have the confidence to make informed decisions about your tire purchases and understand how the right size impacts your daily commute.
2017 Chevy Cruze Tire Size Overview
The 2017 Chevy Cruze features three distinct tire sizes across its trim lineup, with specifications varying between the sedan and hatchback body styles. Base trim Cruze sedans come equipped with 215/60R16 tires, providing a balanced combination of comfort and fuel economy for daily driving needs.
Mid-level trims including the LT and Premier models use 225/50R17 tires, offering enhanced handling characteristics and a sportier appearance compared to the base configuration. These larger diameter wheels deliver improved cornering stability while maintaining reasonable ride quality for most driving conditions.
The hatchback variant exclusively features 225/50R17 tires across all trim levels, eliminating tire size variations within the hatchback lineup. This standardization simplifies replacement decisions for hatchback owners and ensures consistent performance characteristics regardless of selected trim package.
| Trim Level | Body Style | Tire Size | Wheel Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| L, LS | Sedan | 215/60R16 | 16 inches |
| LT, Premier | Sedan | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| All Trims | Hatchback | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
Original equipment tires carry exact load ratings and speed ratings that match Chevrolet’s engineering specifications for the Cruze platform. Tire width differences between the 215mm and 225mm options affect fuel consumption by approximately 1-2 MPG, with narrower tires typically delivering better gas mileage.
Sidewall height variations between the R16 and R17 configurations influence ride comfort and road noise levels throughout the cabin. The 60-series sidewall on 16-inch wheels provides more cushioning over road imperfections, while the 50-series sidewall on 17-inch wheels offers quicker steering response and reduced sidewall flex during cornering maneuvers.
Standard Tire Sizes by Trim Level
The 2017 Chevy Cruze features different tire sizes depending on which trim level you own. Each configuration delivers exact performance characteristics customized to the trim’s intended driving experience.
L and LS Trim Models
The base L and LS trim levels come equipped with 215/60R16 tires mounted on 16-inch steel or aluminum wheels. These tires feature a 215mm width and provide a 60% sidewall height ratio for enhanced ride comfort on everyday commutes. The larger sidewall height absorbs road imperfections more effectively than lower profile alternatives.
Economy remains the primary focus for these entry level trims. The 215/60R16 configuration delivers optimal fuel efficiency through reduced rolling resistance and lighter wheel weight. Replacement costs stay minimal compared to larger diameter options found on higher trim levels.
LT and Premier Trim Models
LT and Premier trims use 225/50R17 tires on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels for improved handling dynamics. The increased tire width of 225mm provides a larger contact patch with the road surface. The reduced 50% sidewall height ratio enhances steering response and cornering precision during spirited driving.
These performance oriented tires complement the advanced suspension tuning found on upper trim levels. The 17-inch wheel diameter accommodates larger brake components while maintaining proper wheel well clearance. Visual appeal increases significantly with the larger wheel and tire combination creating a more aggressive stance.
Performance characteristics change notably between the 16-inch and 17-inch tire configurations. The lower profile 225/50R17 setup reduces sidewall flex during cornering maneuvers. Road noise transmission increases slightly due to the shorter sidewall height and larger wheel diameter.
Understanding Tire Size Numbers
Tire size numbers contain exact measurements that determine how your 2017 Chevy Cruze performs on the road. We’ll decode these alphanumeric sequences to help you select the correct replacement tires.
Reading the Tire Sidewall
The tire sidewall displays a standardized format that appears as three main components separated by forward slashes and letters. We find tire width measurements first, followed by aspect ratio percentages, then wheel diameter specifications. Construction type letters appear between the aspect ratio and diameter numbers on most passenger vehicle tires.
Manufacturers print additional information including load index numbers and speed rating letters immediately after the primary size designation. We recommend locating this information on the tire’s outer sidewall where it’s most visible and accessible during inspection.
What Each Number Means
| Component | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Width | 215 or 225 | Width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall |
| Aspect Ratio | 60 or 50 | Sidewall height as percentage of tire width |
| Construction | R | Radial tire construction type |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 or 17 | Rim diameter in inches |
| Load Index | 95 or 94 | Maximum weight capacity rating |
| Speed Rating | H or V | Maximum sustained speed capability |
Width measurements directly affect your Cruze’s contact patch with the road surface. A 225mm tire provides more grip than a 215mm tire but may reduce fuel economy slightly. Aspect ratios determine sidewall flexibility, where 50 series tires offer sportier handling compared to 60 series options.
Construction letters indicate internal tire structure, with “R” representing radial construction found on all modern passenger vehicles. Wheel diameter numbers must match your Cruze’s rim size exactly to ensure proper fitment and safety.
Load index values correspond to exact weight capacities that your tires can safely support. Speed ratings establish maximum velocity thresholds, with “H” rated tires supporting speeds up to 130 mph and “V” rated options handling up to 149 mph.
OEM Tire Specifications and Performance
Chevrolet equips the 2017 Cruze with two premium tire options that deliver distinct performance characteristics. Each OEM tire selection maximizes exact driving attributes while maintaining the vehicle’s overall efficiency and safety standards.
Michelin Energy Saver A/S
Michelin Energy Saver A/S tires come standard on select 2017 Cruze trim levels, delivering exceptional fuel economy through advanced compound technology. These tires feature low rolling resistance construction that reduces energy loss during highway driving by up to 8% compared to conventional tires.
Performance Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Rolling Resistance | 15% lower than standard tires |
| Fuel Economy Improvement | 3-5% increase |
| Tread Life Warranty | 65,000 miles |
| Load Index Rating | 95-99 (depending on size) |
| Speed Rating | H (130 mph) |
The tire’s silica-enhanced tread compound maintains flexibility across temperature ranges from -40°F to 100°F. Michelin’s EnergySaver technology incorporates computer-optimized tread patterns that reduce road noise by 2-3 decibels while providing reliable wet weather traction.
Symmetric tread design allows for tire rotation in multiple patterns, extending overall tire life by 15-20%. The tire’s construction includes twin steel belts with spirally wrapped nylon for enhanced durability and puncture resistance.
Firestone FR740
Firestone FR740 tires serve as the alternative OEM option for 2017 Cruze models, emphasizing balanced performance across multiple driving conditions. These tires integrate Firestone’s UNI-T technology for consistent tread wear and improved handling precision.
Performance Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Tread Depth | 10.5/32 inches |
| Temperature Rating | A |
| Traction Rating | AA |
| Load Index Range | 91-95 |
| Speed Rating | T (118 mph) |
The FR740’s four-groove tread design channels water effectively, reducing hydroplaning risk at speeds above 45 mph. Firestone’s proprietary rubber compound maintains grip in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F without important performance degradation.
Reinforced sidewall construction provides stability during cornering while maintaining ride comfort over various road surfaces. The tire’s internal structure features polyester cord body plies that resist impact damage and maintain structural integrity under heavy loads.
Advanced siping technology creates additional biting edges that improve traction on wet pavement by 12% compared to previous generation designs. The FR740’s tread pattern reduces braking distances on wet surfaces by an average of 8 feet from 60 mph compared to worn tires.
Alternative Tire Size Options
We can explore several alternative tire sizes for our 2017 Chevy Cruze that maintain proper fitment while offering different performance characteristics. These options provide flexibility for drivers seeking exact attributes like enhanced grip, improved fuel economy, or seasonal adaptability.
Plus-Sizing Considerations
Plus-sizing allows us to install larger diameter wheels with lower-profile tires on our 2017 Cruze while maintaining the same overall tire diameter. Our vehicle accepts plus-one sizing from the standard 16-inch setup to 17-inch wheels, or from 17-inch to 18-inch configurations.
Converting from 215/60R16 to 225/50R17 maintains nearly identical overall diameter while providing wider contact patches and improved cornering response. The calculation shows 215/60R16 measures 25.15 inches in diameter, while 225/50R17 measures 25.86 inches, creating only a 0.71-inch difference that remains within acceptable tolerances.
Plus-two sizing transforms 215/60R16 tires to 245/40R18 configurations, offering maximum grip and steering precision. This modification reduces sidewall height significantly, creating a sportier appearance and enhanced handling characteristics at the expense of ride comfort and potential wheel damage from road impacts.
We must verify load ratings when plus-sizing since wider tires often carry higher load capacities. Our Cruze requires tires with load index 91 or higher, which translates to 1,356 pounds per tire minimum capacity.
Winter Tire Sizing
Winter tire sizing for our 2017 Cruze typically involves downsizing to smaller wheel diameters for improved cold-weather traction and ride quality. We recommend 205/60R16 winter tires for vehicles originally equipped with 17-inch wheels, providing additional sidewall height that enhances performance on snow and ice.
Narrower winter tires concentrate vehicle weight over smaller contact patches, improving penetration through snow layers to reach pavement beneath. The 205mm width versus the standard 215mm or 225mm creates approximately 15-20% better snow traction while maintaining proper speedometer accuracy.
Steel wheels prove ideal for winter applications since they resist corrosion from road salt better than aluminum alloy wheels. Our recommended winter setup uses 16×6.5-inch steel wheels with 5x105mm bolt patterns and 38mm offset specifications matching OEM requirements.
Temperature ratings become critical for winter applications, with tires requiring M+S (Mud and Snow) markings or Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbols for optimal cold-weather performance. We verify that winter tire load ratings match or exceed original equipment specifications to maintain safety margins during heavy snow loading conditions.
Factors Affecting Tire Choice
We consider several critical factors when selecting tires for our 2017 Chevy Cruze beyond the standard specifications. These elements directly impact performance, safety, and long-term costs.
Driving Conditions
Urban commuting requires different tire characteristics than highway cruising or off-road adventures. City driving with frequent stops and starts benefits from tires with enhanced grip and shorter stopping distances, making the 225/50R17 configuration ideal for improved braking performance. Highway driving emphasizes fuel efficiency and low road noise, where the 215/60R16 size excels with its taller sidewall and reduced rolling resistance.
Weather patterns in our region significantly influence tire selection decisions. Rain-soaked roads demand tires with deeper tread patterns and superior water evacuation channels, while dry conditions allow for performance-oriented compounds that maximize grip. Snow and ice conditions require specialized winter tires with softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in temperatures below 45°F.
Parking environments also affect tire longevity and performance needs. Concrete parking garages with sharp turns favor tires with reinforced sidewalls, while street parking exposes tires to curb damage and temperature fluctuations. Construction zones and debris-filled roads require tires with puncture-resistant features and stronger sidewall construction.
Performance vs Fuel Economy
Tire width directly impacts the balance between grip and fuel consumption in our 2017 Cruze. Wider tires create larger contact patches that improve cornering stability but increase rolling resistance by approximately 3-5% compared to narrower alternatives. The 225mm width provides enhanced lateral grip for spirited driving while the 215mm width prioritizes fuel savings for daily commuting.
Sidewall height affects ride comfort and handling precision through different mechanisms. Lower profile tires with reduced sidewall flex deliver sharper steering response and improved cornering accuracy but transmit more road imperfections to the cabin. Higher profile tires absorb bumps more effectively while slightly reducing steering precision during aggressive maneuvers.
Rolling resistance coefficients vary significantly between tire compounds and tread designs. Low rolling resistance tires can improve fuel economy by 2-4% through advanced silica compounds and optimized tread patterns, though they may sacrifice some wet weather traction. Performance-oriented compounds prioritize grip over efficiency, potentially reducing fuel economy while improving driving dynamics.
Tread pattern design influences both noise levels and fuel consumption rates. Asymmetrical patterns reduce road noise while maintaining traction capabilities, symmetric patterns offer longer tread life and lower costs, and directional patterns excel in wet conditions but require exact rotation patterns. Each design choice affects our Cruze’s overall efficiency and driving characteristics.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing 2017 Chevy Cruze tires requires proper preparation and attention to exact torque specifications. We recommend checking your owner’s manual for the exact wheel lug nut torque value, which typically ranges from 100 to 140 foot-pounds for most Cruze models. Jack stands provide essential safety during tire removal and installation procedures.
Proper tire rotation extends tread life and maintains even wear patterns across all four tires. We suggest rotating your Cruze tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles using a front-to-rear pattern for directional tires or a cross pattern for non-directional designs. This rotation schedule helps maximize the investment in your 215/60R16 or 225/50R17 tires depending on your trim level.
Maintaining correct tire pressure optimizes fuel efficiency and prevents premature wear on your Cruze. We check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold, as driving heats the air inside and increases pressure readings by 2 to 4 PSI. The recommended pressure for most 2017 Cruze models ranges from 32 to 35 PSI, though you’ll find the exact specification on the door jamb sticker.
Wheel alignment directly affects tire longevity and vehicle handling characteristics. We inspect alignment whenever you notice uneven tread wear, pulling to one side, or after hitting potholes or curbs. Misalignment can reduce tire life by up to 50% and negatively impact your Cruze’s fuel economy performance.
Balancing your wheels eliminates vibrations and prevents irregular wear patterns that compromise tire performance. We balance wheels during tire installation and whenever you experience steering wheel vibration at highway speeds. Unbalanced wheels cause premature wear on suspension components and reduce the comfort of your Cruze driving experience.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Expected Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Rotation | 5,000-7,500 miles | $25-$50 |
| Pressure Check | Monthly | Free |
| Wheel Alignment | As needed | $75-$150 |
| Wheel Balancing | At installation | $40-$100 |
Tread depth monitoring helps determine when replacement becomes necessary for safety and performance. We measure tread depth using a penny test or digital gauge, replacing tires when depth reaches 2/32 inch. But, replacing tires at 4/32 inch provides better wet weather traction and shorter stopping distances in your Cruze.
Seasonal tire changes require exact storage techniques to preserve rubber compounds. We clean tires thoroughly before storage and keep them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and ozone sources like electric motors. Storing tires vertically or hanging them prevents flat spots that can develop during extended storage periods.
Visual inspections reveal potential issues before they become safety hazards. We examine sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects during monthly pressure checks. These inspections also help identify irregular wear patterns that indicate alignment problems, improper inflation, or suspension component issues affecting your Cruze’s performance.
Conclusion
Finding the right tire size for your 2017 Chevy Cruze doesn’t have to be complicated when you understand the basics. We’ve covered everything from standard OEM specifications to alternative sizing options that can enhance your driving experience.
Whether you’re driving the sedan with its 215/60R16 or 225/50R17 options or the hatchback with its consistent 225/50R17 sizing across all trims you now have the knowledge to make informed decisions. Remember that proper maintenance and regular inspections will help you get the most from whatever tire choice you make.
Your Cruze’s performance fuel efficiency and safety all depend on selecting the appropriate tire size for your exact needs and driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard tire size for a 2017 Chevy Cruze sedan?
The standard tire size depends on the trim level. Base L and LS trim sedans come with 215/60R16 tires, while LT and Premier trims use 225/50R17 tires. The larger 17-inch tires on higher trims provide enhanced handling and performance, while the 16-inch tires prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency.
Are tire sizes different between 2017 Cruze sedan and hatchback models?
Yes, there are differences. The hatchback variant uses 225/50R17 tires across all trim levels, simplifying tire replacement decisions. Sedan models vary by trim, with base trims using 215/60R16 tires and higher trims using 225/50R17 tires, matching the hatchback specification.
How do I read the tire size numbers on my 2017 Cruze?
Tire size follows a standardized format: width/aspect ratio/construction/wheel diameter. For example, in 225/50R17, “225” is the tire width in millimeters, “50” is the sidewall height as a percentage of width, “R” indicates radial construction, and “17” is the wheel diameter in inches.
What OEM tire brands came on the 2017 Chevy Cruze?
The 2017 Cruze typically came with two premium tire options: Michelin Energy Saver A/S and Firestone FR740. The Michelin tires focus on fuel economy with low rolling resistance and a 65,000-mile warranty, while Firestone FR740 tires offer balanced performance across various driving conditions.
Can I use different tire sizes on my 2017 Cruze?
Yes, you can use alternative sizes through plus-sizing, which involves larger diameter wheels with lower-profile tires. However, you must maintain the overall diameter to preserve speedometer accuracy and vehicle safety. Always consult a tire professional to ensure proper fitment and performance characteristics.
What tire size should I use for winter driving on my 2017 Cruze?
For winter conditions, consider slightly narrower tires for improved snow traction. A common winter setup uses the base 215/60R16 size even on higher trims, mounted on steel wheels. Ensure winter tires have proper load ratings and temperature markings for cold weather performance.
How often should I rotate tires on my 2017 Cruze?
Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to extend tread life and maintain even wear patterns. Regular rotation helps maximize tire performance and prevents premature replacement. Follow your owner’s manual for the specific rotation pattern recommended for your vehicle’s drivetrain configuration.
What tire pressure should I maintain for my 2017 Cruze?
Check your driver’s side door jamb for the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, typically around 35 PSI for most 2017 Cruze models. Maintain proper pressure monthly to optimize fuel efficiency, prevent premature wear, and ensure safe handling. Pressure should be checked when tires are cold.
How does tire width affect fuel economy on the 2017 Cruze?
Wider tires generally reduce fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance and weight. The 225mm tires on higher trims provide better grip and handling but may slightly decrease fuel efficiency compared to the narrower 215mm tires on base trims, which prioritize fuel economy.
When should I replace my 2017 Cruze tires?
Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inches, though 4/32 inches is recommended for wet weather safety. Also replace tires showing uneven wear, sidewall damage, or age-related deterioration (typically after 6-10 years regardless of tread). Regular visual inspections help identify potential issues early.