[XtremeRevolution]

You won't be very likely to blow a tire from a pothole so long as you don't let the tires underinflate. However, the 18s are a rougher ride.

In my opinion, you should consider a 235/50/17. It's identical in diameter to the Eco's 215/55/17 and would provide great comfort and have a very good looking stance. I can get you some pictures of what it would look like if you're interested.

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[XtremeRevolution]

Contact patch w/ the road is 230 mm vs 225.

How To Read Your Tire

I'm not sure if 230's would rub the Cruze's fender liners or not. I know larger than stock tires (and even stock ones sometimes) would rub the fenders on my old car and tear up the liner. Turn your current tires to full lock and see how much of a gap there is between the edge of the tire and the fender liner.

There exists a 230?

I believe some members have run a 245, but don't quote me on that. A 235 shouldn't have any issues fitting. That's the size I'll be using.

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[XtremeRevolution]

A 235 shouldn't have any trouble fitting at all, however, bumping up to a 245 from a 225 on the same stock rim will cause problems. If he's staying with his current rims, there really is no reason for bumping to 235s, as stock tires are deemed "the perfect fit" for safety. Not to mention he will save $5-10 per tire between the 225 and 235.

For my tires I was originally looking at a 225/45 or 235/45 which the first would've been a semi-stretch fit, and the difference was $12 per tire if I remember correctly.

The factory tire size for 17" rims (at least on the Eco with 17" rims) is 215/55/17. That's a 26.3" diameter tire IIRC. If you go with a 225/45, you're going to reduce diameter and run slightly more wheel revolutions per mile. For appearance purposes, I like to fill the wheel gap more, not less. Gives it more of a "lowered" look, if you know what I mean.

A 235/50/17 is the same diameter as the 215/55/17, which is why I mentioned it. That, and I think the stance would look pretty good on the Cruze.

Here are 235/50/17 tires on 17x7 rims (same as the Eco):