Tire Size 275/65r20 vs 295/65r20
Are you considering upgrading from 275/65R20 to 295/65R20 tires? While both sizes may look similar at a glance, there are some key differences to be aware of.
We’ll dive into the details and help you decide if making the switch is right for your vehicle.
- Wider tires provide improved traction and stability, especially when cornering and braking
- Stiffer sidewalls on wider tires may result in a firmer, less comfortable ride
- Minor reduction in fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance of wider tires
- Speedometer will read about 3% slower than actual speed with larger diameter tires
275/65r20 vs 295/65r20
Fitment Guide
The new tires should be within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter. In this case, 295/65R20 tires have a diameter that is 3% larger than 275/65R20 tires, right at the acceptable limit.
While you can make this switch, be aware that it may necessitate minor adaptations to prevent rubbing or clearance issues.
On-Road Impact
Switching to wider 295/65R20 tires can have both positive and negative effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Here’s what you might notice:
- Improved Traction: The wider contact patch of 295/65R20 tires provides more grip, especially during cornering and braking. This can enhance your vehicle’s handling and stability.
- Stiffer Ride: However, the wider tires also have stiffer sidewalls, which can result in a firmer, less forgiving ride. You may feel more bumps and vibrations, particularly on rough roads.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: The increased rolling resistance of wider tires can slightly diminish your gas mileage. Expect to see a minor dip in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
- Speedometer Variance: Because 295/65R20 tires have a 3% larger diameter, your speedometer will read about 3% slower than your actual speed. At 20 mph, you’ll really be going 20.6 mph.
Off-Road Impact
If you take your vehicle off the beaten path, here’s how the switch to 295/65R20 tires might affect your off-road capabilities:
- Increased Ground Clearance: The taller 295/65R20 tires raise your vehicle’s height by about 1 inch. This extra ground clearance can be beneficial for navigating over obstacles and uneven terrain.
- Enhanced Traction: As on pavement, the wider tires provide a larger contact area with the ground. This improves traction, especially in loose conditions like sand, mud, or gravel.
- Reduced Protection: One downside is that the taller, wider tires expose more of the wheel and suspension. This increases the risk of damage from rocks or debris when off-roading in rugged areas.
What is the Main Difference Between 275/65R20 and 295/65R20?
The primary difference between 275/65R20 and 295/65R20 tires is the tire width. 295/65R20 tires are 0.79 inches or 20 millimeters wider than 275/65R20 tires.
Can I Use 295/65R20 Instead of 275/65R20?
Yes, you can use 295/65R20 tires instead of 275/65R20, as the overall diameter difference is right at the 3% maximum recommended variance.
However, minor modifications may be necessary to avoid rubbing or clearance problems.
How Much Taller Is a 295/65R20 Tire Than a 275/65R20?
A 295/65R20 tire is 1.02 inches or 26 millimeters taller than a 275/65R20 tire. This equates to a 3% increase in overall tire diameter.
How Much Wider is a 295/65R20 Tire Than a 275/65R20?
A 295/65R20 tire is 0.79 inches or 20 millimeters wider than a 275/65R20 tire. This represents a 7.3% increase in tire width between the two sizes.
Our Observation
After analyzing the differences between 275/65R20 and 295/65R20 tires, we believe that making the switch comes with both benefits and drawbacks.
The wider 295/65R20 tires can improve traction and stability, both on-road and off. They also give your vehicle a small lift for better clearance.
However, you may notice a slightly stiffer ride, reduced fuel economy, and a minor speedometer discrepancy of about 3%. For most daily driving, the differences will be fairly negligible.
But for frequent off-roading, the improved capabilities could be worthwhile, as long as you’re cautious of the increased damage risk. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific vehicle, driving style, and intended use.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.