Find the Best 205/55R16 Tires for Your Vehicle

The 205/55R16 size is commonly found on compact and mid-size sedans including Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, and Volkswagen Jetta. Some small crossovers and hatchbacks also use this size as original equipment.

205 represents the tread width in millimeters, 55 is the aspect ratio meaning the sidewall height is 55% of the width (112.75mm), R indicates radial construction, and 16 is the rim diameter in inches. This creates an overall tire diameter of approximately 24.9 inches.

Price range varies significantly: budget tires $70-120, mid-range options $120-180, and premium performance tires $180-280 per tire. Installation and balancing typically add $15-25 per tire at most shops.

Load index typically ranges from 89-94, corresponding to weight capacities of 1,279-1,477 pounds per tire. Most passenger car applications use load index 91 (1,356 lbs) with H or V speed ratings.

Yes, this size has excellent winter tire availability from major brands including Bridgestone Blizzak, Michelin X-Ice, Continental WinterContact, and Nokian Hakkapeliitta. The size is well-supported across all seasonal categories.

Rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles using a front-to-back pattern for same-size tires, or cross-pattern if wear rates differ. This size is particularly sensitive to alignment issues, so regular rotation helps maximize tread life.

The 55% aspect ratio provides a good balance of comfort and performance, offering moderate sidewall cushioning for bump absorption while maintaining adequate handling precision. Noise levels are typically moderate, with performance variants being slightly louder than touring models.