Toyo Proxes STII and PSA regarding wheel locks...

[Alan Smithee]

After one year and 10k miles on my 2011 X5d with 20" Dunlops, I made the switch to Toyo Proxes STII non-run-flats last week. My initial motivation was to have a M+S rated tire for occasional winter trips to the Sierras. I planned this far ahead, and ordered the spare tire option. I originally thought I would go with the Continental DWS, however their inconsistent availability turned me off.

While the 20" Dunlops on the standard X5 suspension make for a firm ride, I found it to be acceptable, and the stiff sidewalls necessary for running flat effectively raised the spring rates for crisp (for an SUV) turn-in and minimal body roll in the corners. I was hesitant to potentially lose this, however I do have another tool in the shed for fast windy road driving. The Dunlops are showing some wear, but there is enough tread for them to go back on at the end of the lease, so off they went.

I was instantly, and continue to be, shocked at how much better the ride is with the Toyos at the same 35 PSI all-around that I ran on the Dunlops. And while I never considered the Dunlops to be a 'loud' tire, I am more aware of wind and engine noise now, so the Toyos must be more quiet. Add in a 420 wear rating (240 for the Dunlops), that they are made in the USA (Germany for the Dunlops), and their relatively low price (~$1k installed for all four), and I am EXTREMELY pleased with these tires.

Steering is slightly lighter now (per spec sheets, the Toyos are ~10lbs lighter than the Dunlops), and feel is about the same, but there does seem to be a bit more softness in the handling. I have also seen the stability control light flash a few times in the last week when going through the twisties - had never before with the Dunlops. That said, they only have 250 miles on them, and the rubber mold nubs have not worn off yet.

Overall, could not be more pleased.

Oh, and the PSA regarding wheel locks: If your vehicle has them, know where your wheel lock key is. When I took delivery of the X5, there was a blister pack of wheel locks in the front console. Never being anywhere that the wheels would be at risk, I tossed them onto a shelf in the garage and forgot about them. Turned out that the wheel locks WERE installed, and the non-locking wheel bolts where put back into the blister pack - with the wheel lock key - and put into the center console. Didn't find this out until my first trip to the tire store. Why the dealer or PDC that installed the wheel locks did not put the key into its designated spot in the 'tool kit', is beyond me. Just glad I didn't find this out on the side of the road somewhere...