OK, so I'm now undecided on what wheels to order. Suggestions? I like performance tires and the 18" wheels, but I travel to the mountains frequently and really need all-season. But, I've heard some bad things about the stock tires Audi puts on the A3 with 17". Just for practicality and price I'm leaning toward the 17", but is that not going to be worth it in the end?

PS - dealers are telling me the all season stock tires are crap....but then again, they're also trying to sell me the $1000 upgrade option.

 

I bought from Tirerack some 16" rims and Pirelli studless snow tires for my travel in the mountains. One benefit is they are a softer ride than the 17's and really work well in the snow.

 

I have the 17' stock tires on the A3. Had the car for two months and I have good impression. Used it in dry, really wet (Seattle rain) and snowy weather. The traction is good. Not excellent but good. The quattro compensates and this car sticks to the road on all conditions. You could go with the stock and if you decide you need something more in the mountains then get some good snow tires. In the summer I'm sure you'd have no problems with the P6 unless you are looking to challenge the speed limits of the car or push the car off its limits on curves.

 

Hi All-

My local dealer has heard that the Ingolstadt, Germany factory is only offering the 18-inch rims with Summer Performance tires. This would be a public-relations nightmare for Audi because those tires aren't safe for the vast, vast majority of Audi purchasers who live in sections of the country that occasionally get ice or snow. This should be a choice given to the purchaser.

~ Blue Jays ~