GR86 Opinions on italian omologated wheel size?

[Lokuster]

Hi everyone, I’m about to buy a set of OZ Ultraleggera rims to pair with 225-series tires using the NAD procedure for Italian type approval. Unfortunately, we’re pretty limited here in terms of size options if we want to stay legal and approved. The choice is between:
Ultraleggera 17x7.5 ET48 with 225/45R17 tires (OEM wheel size)

Ultraleggera 18x8 ET48 with 225/40R18 tires

I’m weighing the pros and cons of both options, keeping in mind that the 17-inch wheels would be lighter, more agile, and more comfortable, while the 18-inch wheels would have a more imposing presence and likely offer better cornering precision and road holding.

I’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, whatever they may be.
Thanks, bye

 

[AEG86]

Hey there, I recently bought some OZ Leggera's in 18"s ET45, went for 225's all round and Bridgestone Potenza Sports (Evo tyre of the year '25).

I know it's not the exact same wheel but I have found these a lighter overall package compared to the stock wheels plus tyres, the car feels more agile and lighter on its toes.

My two cents.

 

[Sonic]

Hi everyone, I’m about to buy a set of OZ Ultraleggera rims to pair with 225-series tires using the NAD procedure for Italian type approval. Unfortunately, we’re pretty limited here in terms of size options if we want to stay legal and approved. The choice is between:
Ultraleggera 17x7.5 ET48 with 225/45R17 tires (OEM wheel size)

Ultraleggera 18x8 ET48 with 225/40R18 tires

I’m weighing the pros and cons of both options, keeping in mind that the 17-inch wheels would be lighter, more agile, and more comfortable, while the 18-inch wheels would have a more imposing presence and likely offer better cornering precision and road holding.

I’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, whatever they may be.
Thanks, bye

I would go with the 18x8 with 225/40R18, but then again I am biased because that's exactly my Summer wheel set up, albeit with a slightly outward 42 offset.
The 18x8 with 225s offer a greater contact patch and feel so planted in comparison to the 7.5 wheels. That said, my Winter set up is the OEM (18x7.5", ET48) with 225/40R18 A/S tyres, which still squeal at junction exits if making good progress.
TLDR: Go with the 18s.

 

[Jokurt]

I have the Ultraleggera 18x8 with 225/40 tyres on my GR86. I really like this set up and it feels good going through corners. But I don't know much about driving, others may give you better advice on that.
If optics are also important to you, you should keep in mind that the Ultraleggera are very "airy" and give a good view on what's behind them. You can see it quite well in this picture:

 

[Lokuster]

Thanks for the input @AEG86 @Sonic @Jokurt ! I really appreciate it.

I’d also like to ask you if, in your opinion, the 18s are likely to be much less comfortable and forgiving than the 17s on rough roads with various issues like cracks, bumps, and potholes, since not all the roads I drive on are always smooth and perfect. That would be my “final concern” on this matter.

EDIT: not that every road here Is messy! But i was just wondering how much of a difference it would make when conditions are far from perfect

 

[midlife_sportscar]

I went from the standard 18" wheels with PS4 to 17" Ultraleggera with Michelin CC 215/45 and the ride is much better in my opinion.
My 86 is my daily and I prefer more of a GT setup, rather than out and out sports car, on our typically crappy British roads.
Link to my wheels

 

[ZN8]

I’d also like to ask you if, in your opinion, the 18s are likely to be much less comfortable and forgiving than the 17s on rough roads with various issues like cracks, bumps, and potholes, since not all the roads I drive on are always smooth and perfect. That would be my “final concern” on this matter.

There is a noticeable improvement, the car also feels more nimble on 17s, its not a drastic change but it is a positive one.

Not Ultraleggeras but still Italian...