Hey everyone! With the temperatures starting to drop, I’m getting a bit anxious about sorting out a winter setup for my Taycan Cross Turismo. This is my first winter with the car, and since it sits a bit differently than the standard sedan, I want to make sure I get the wheel and tire combination just right. I’ve been looking at the official Porsche Tequipment sets, specifically the 20-inch Taycan Tequipment Design wheels, but the price tag is pretty steep.
I’m curious if any of you have experience with aftermarket options that clear the brakes properly, or if it's truly safer to stick with the OEM 19 or 20-inch sets for the best range and traction in deep snow. I’m particularly concerned about how the extra weight of the Cross Turismo affects handling on icy roads. Are most of you running a squared setup, or are you sticking with staggered widths for the winter? I’d love to hear what brands or specific wheel designs you’ve found that balance durability with that rugged CT aesthetic. For those who have already been through a winter, which specific winter wheel and tire sets provided the best balance of grip and range for the Cross Turismo?
Hey, I totally feel u on the price tag... it is honestly insane!! I actually had a pretty bad experience trying to save money with some cheap aftermarket rims last year. Unfortunately, they didn't clear the brakes properly even though the shop said they would, and it was just a huge headache. Basically, here is what I found:
1. Porsche 20-inch Taycan Tequipment Design Winter Wheel Set: These look SO good and rugged on the CT, but they are literally highway robbery. Plus, the 20s definitely hurt your range.
2. Porsche 19-inch Taycan S Aero Winter Wheel Set: These are way better for deep snow and range, but they look kinda boring and small on the Cross Turismo body, tbh.
Best choice is sticking with the staggered OEM 19s. I tried squared and it felt less stable with the CT's extra weight. gl!!
yo! Honestly, choosing a winter setup for the CT is a whole thing because of that extra weight and the brake clearance. Since the Cross Turismo is basically a beast in the snow, you gotta balance that rugged look with actual performance. Here is what I recommend after nerding out on the specs for my own build:
1. **The OEM Route:** Stick with the Porsche 20-inch Taycan Tequipment Design Winter Wheel Set. Pros: Guaranteed fit and aero efficiency. Cons: Seriouslyyy expensive.
2. **The High-End Aftermarket:** If you want to save a bit without sacrificing quality, look at the Vossen HF-5 Gloss Black 20-inch wheels paired with Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 245/45R20 front and Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 285/40R20 rear. This keeps the staggered setup which is vital for the CT's torque vectoring and handling.
3. **Maximum Grip:** If you live somewhere with insane ice, go for the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 20-inch winter tires. They handle the EV weight much better than cheaper options. Basically, don't go squared on a Taycan; the rear motor needs that extra contact patch!! gl!
Ok so, I'd actually suggest a different approach—Respectfully, I'd consider another option before you spend a fortune on those official sets. I know everyone says OEM is the only way to stay safe, but honestly, I had a pretty mediocre experience with the factory wheels last year. They're crazy expensive and, tbh, the range wasn't even that much better than my current setup.
I'm a safety-first guy, but you can find way better value. I'd seriously look into getting a set from a brand like Vossen or maybe even HRE. You basically get much better durability for the price. Just make sure you go with a squared setup! Running staggered in deep snow with the CT’s weight is kinda asking for trouble imo... a squared setup gives you way more predictable handling on ice. Plus, you can rotate them to save on long-term costs. Just find a reputable brand that guarantees brake clearance and you'll be fine. gl!
Bump - same question here
Seconding the recommendation above about the OEM sets being overpriced. Honestly, I’ve been researching the market for months because I'm in the same boat with my CT, and the technical data on the Vossen HF-5 Gloss Black 20 inch wheels shows they're a solid alternative for the extra weight. Most of my research suggests sticking with a staggered setup; a squared one might help with rotations, but you really loose that rear-end stability on the heavier Cross Turismo frame. I'm probably gonna pair those rims with Continental WinterContact TS 860 S 245/45 R20 for the front and Continental WinterContact TS 860 S 285/40 R20 for the rear. From what I’ve seen on the forums and spec sheets, they offer a slightly better rolling resistance than the Sottozeros, which should help you eke out a few more miles of range when it’s freezing. Just make sure whatever you get is specifically rated for the EV load index, or the sidewalls will feel like jelly when cornering!
Honestly, I’m gonna have to respectfully disagree with some of the advice here. After 3 winters in a CT, I’ve found that most folks overlook the technical load rating (LI) specs in favor of looks. You reallyyy can’t just throw any 'rugged' wheel on a 5,000lb+ EV with this much instant torque. Here is the technical reality: 1. **Static Load Rating:** The Taycan CT has a massive GVWR. I’ve seen flow-formed wheels from big brands warp because they weren't rated for the specific axle loads. You need a set rated for 800kg+ per corner, minimum.
2. **Unsprung Mass:** Winter is already rough on range. Heavy cast stuff makes ur suspension struggle on icy washboard roads.
3. **Technical Alternative:** I’d skip the ones mentioned so far and look at BBS CI-R Unlimited. They’re engineered specifically for high-load applications and have replaceable stainless rim protectors which are life-savers for slushy curbs. Pair them with Bridgestone Blizzak LM005. Tbh, they outperform other premium options in actual slush evacuation, which is sooo important for a heavy car. It's the engineering specs you should be looking at.
Regarding what #3 said about choosing a winter setup being a whole thing, I have to emphasize that safety should strictly override aesthetics here. In my experience, most owners underestimate the sheer lateral forces a Cross Turismo puts on its rims during a slide recovery. I have seen too many people focus on the look rather than the engineering. Here are a few things I have learned after years of winter driving these heavy EVs: