How different setups will affect the Model 3’s Performance and Range:
Before we get into fitments, we first want you to have a firm understanding of how different fitments will affect your Model 3 in regards to Acceleration, Braking, Handling, Comfort, and Range (if you would like to read the details & physics explanations of how different wheels affect your Model 3 you can learn all about it in the “Physics Reference Section”). We want to consider each of these factors in regards to how you will be using your Model 3 and what you want out of your new wheel setup. The factory wheels and tires were selected for a balance between all 4 of those categories. The 235 wide tires provide a decent contact patch for performance while offering limited rolling resistance to keep your range favorable.
For Fitment’s Sake: Only Looks Matter
Some enthusiasts want to run a specific size wheel and tire combo to achieve a very specific level of fitment, or to achieve a wider wheel and tire setup than everyone else. These fitments typically have an adverse effect on performance, but the owners don’t seem to mind (or at least say they don’t). With this in mind, before you pick a fitment just because of the way it looks you should be aware of the downsides.
Skinny wheel with a low offset:
An example of this would be a 18×8.5 or 19×8.5 front and rear with a low offset (see lowered fitment guide section for offset reference). While this may achieve that flush look you wanted, it will have a drawback on handling (see why in our Physics Reference Section). On the upside, you will not hurt your Model 3’s Acceleration, Braking, or Range.
Wide Wheels:
An extreme example of this could be a 20×10.0 front and 20×11.0 rear (see aggressive fitment guide section for offset reference). You may want to run some extra wide wheels and tires for that meaty aggressive look that you might find on a BMW M3 or Mercedes C63 AMG. The drawbacks here are going to be a negative impact on Range, Acceleration, and Braking (the effects on acceleration and braking can be offset to an extent with lightweight wheels and choosing the right tires – see why in our Physics Reference Section). On the upside, your Model 3 will look super aggressive and handling may be improved (less so with 20s than with wide 18s or 19s).
Form and Function: Performance and Good Looks
Many enthusiasts fall into this category and make up the majority of the customers we see. These setups are all about balance between form and function. This doesn’t mean these setups are not without their drawbacks, but they will tend to be more acceptable.
Modest Plus Sizing:
An example of this would be something like a 19×9.5 square setup (same size front and rear) with a flush offset (see fitment guide section for offset references). The majority of Model 3’s come with 18 or 19 inch wheels which can definitely be improved upon. A 19×9.5, especially in flow formed or forged construction, gives you a nice balance of weight, width for wider tires, and improved fitment to look flush and aggressive. The drawback of a setup like this is a slight decrease in range (see why in our Physics Reference Section) and you would need to buy new tires.
Another example of this would be something like 20×9.0 front and 20×10.0 rear with a flush offset (see fitment guide section for offset references) on a dual motor model. Again this gives you a nice balance of weight, width for wider tires, and improved fitment to look flush and aggressive. There are really no drawbacks here as the tire sizes would be similar to if not the same as a staggered tire equipped performance model. If you have a square tire setup you would simply need to purchase new rear tires.
Practical and Stylish:
If range is your top priority and you want to be as efficient as possible but you still don’t want to have your car look like a muffin top (see render below for reference), read on.
We know this is a daily driver for many people and efficiency can be a big priority.
A good example would be an 18×8.5 or 19×8.5 with a modest offset (see fitment guide section for offset references). You can keep the same size tires that normally come equipped on a Model 3, but you can save extra weight by choosing a flow formed or forged wheel which will improve your range and even ride quality (see why in our Physics Reference Section). If you do not increase your wheel diameter you can easily reuse your factory tires for cost savings. When you are ready for new tires you can also go the “extra mile” and select something with a low rolling resistance for ultimate economy like the Michelin Energy Saver A/S. The only drawbacks here will be no improvement in traction for performance and some negative impact on handling.
Stock Fitments (Page 1)
Effects of lowering on fitments (Page 1)
How different setups will affect the Model 3’s Performance and Range (page 2)
Wheel Spacers (page 3)
Stock Height Fitments (page 4)
Lowered Fitments (page 5)
Aggressive (lowered) Fitments (page 6)
Recommended Wheel Brands & Models (page 7)
Tire sizing & types (compounds) (page 8)