I took my Freelander 2 with 18 inch alloys and 255/55 R18 Nitto Terra Grapplers to Fraser Island.

I found that if I let the tyres down and drive fast enough not to get bogged Inwould occasionally smash into some tree roots hard enough that I worried about damaging the vehicle.

I was wondering if anyone has noted a significant difference in comfort / impact absorption by changing from 18 to 17 inch wheels and if anyone in Oz has legally fitted 16 inch wheels and found that it made an even larger difference?

Thanks!

It should make a difference if you use 60 or 65 profile on the 17 inch wheels. I have changed to 255/60 R18 and it made a huge difference on bad gravel roads compared to the normal 235/60 R18'. The bigger tires fitted without rubbing anywhere, gave some improved riding height, albeit little and performs beautifully in deep sand (1 bar). 2013 SD4 SE (hers)
2013 SD4 HSE (mine)
Ex: 2008 D3 V8 HSE
EX: 2000 D2 TD5

If you are really going off road its all about getting back on one not comfort IMO. Would also depend on environment as differing tyres for differing jobs but generally I would say 17 inch wheels for work and the rest for added bling. FL2 MY10 TD4 GS traded in at 2 years
FL2 MY13 TD4 GS Current

16's.wouls be best for your needs. They dont fit petrol cars due to different brakes. But will fit all diesels. I seem to recall. 16's are very rare in OZ. Your. Not the first to ask At work
At home

"I can't always believe facts I read on the web" - Charles Dickens

winner by default of the tractor vs caravan race

As an extreme example, I downsized from 19" to 17", put on a new set of original spec Cross Continentals, and the ride comfort was much improved. Shortly after, travelled 2,500 mile tour of Europe crossing Alps and Pyrenees in superb driving comfort with exceptional feeling of security. The motoring journalist "Honest John" of the Daily Telegraph reiterates constantly to drop the bling and fatten up the tyre.

Thank you for the responses.

Has anyone here swapped over from 18inch to 17inch with a smile at tyre width and noted a significant improvement in off road comfort/ shock absorption?