Tire Scouter

255/50R17 tires

Compare 4 models made in this size across 3 categories, ranked by spec score, then confirm fitment for your vehicle.

Spec scores are estimates from five manufacturer specs, not road tests. How we score

Shop 255/50R17 tires at Tire Rack

See tires in this size, then confirm the load index and speed rating your vehicle needs.

We may earn a commission from retailer links. Learn more

Shop 255/50R17 at Tire Rack
Our top pick in 255/50R17

Nitto NT555 G2

  • Ultra high performance summer

Best for enthusiast drivers.

The Nitto NT555 G2 is a strong choice for drivers who prioritize dry and wet grip, with perfect scores in both dry grip and handling, and a wet grip rating of 9 that exceeds the category average.

  • Perfect dry grip score of 10, significantly above the category average of 8.7, ideal for spirited driving.
  • Wet grip rating of 9 outpaces the ultra-high-performance summer average of 7.6, enhancing safety in wet conditions.
  • Handling score of 10 ensures precise and responsive driving dynamics, a standout feature in this category.
Full analysis

The highest spec score among ultra high performance summer tires in this size that we have analysis for, the most common category for 255/50R17.

80Strong
None listed
320
AA
W · 168 mph

Every scale below runs from the lowest to the highest spec score among the 3 scored tires in 255/50R17 (70 to 80).

Best ultra high performance summer tires in 255/50R17

2 models, highest spec score first.

All ultra high performance summer tires

  1. Nitto NT555 G2

    Best for enthusiast drivers.

    80StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    320
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • Perfect dry grip score of 10, significantly above the category average of 8.7, ideal for spirited driving.
    • Wet grip rating of 9 outpaces the ultra-high-performance summer average of 7.6, enhancing safety in wet conditions.
    • Lack of a treadwear warranty could deter buyers looking for a guaranteed lifespan, especially when competitors offer one.

  2. Nitto Invo

    Best for enthusiast drivers.

    Not enough spec data
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    Not listed
    • Perfect dry grip score of 10, exceeding the category average of 8.7, ideal for spirited driving on dry roads.
    • Wet grip rating of 9 surpasses the category average of 7.6, providing confidence in rainy conditions.
    • Lack of a treadwear warranty and lower UTQG rating of 200 could mean more frequent replacements, impacting long-term costs.

Best performance all-season tires in 255/50R17

1 model, highest spec score first.

All performance all-season tires

  1. Riken Raptor ZR A/S

    Best for budget-conscious performance drivers.

    71GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    300
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • Dry grip score of 8 matches the performance all-season category's expectations, providing reliable traction in varied conditions.
    • Handling score of 8 complements the dry grip, making it a solid choice for drivers who prioritize responsive steering.
    • No treadwear warranty and a low UTQG rating of 300 may lead to higher long-term costs due to more frequent replacements.

Best highway all-season truck tires in 255/50R17

1 model, highest spec score first.

All highway all-season truck tires

  1. Hankook Ventus ST RH06

    Best for drivers in wet climates.

    70Good
    Warranty
    50k mi
    Treadwear
    420
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • Treadwear warranty of 50,000 miles is a solid offer, though below the category average of 61,048 miles.
    • Wet grip score of 7 is above the category average of 6.1, making it a reliable choice for rainy conditions.
    • The slightly lower treadwear rating of 420 compared to the category average suggests a shorter tire lifespan.

Vehicles that use 255/50R17

A sample of recent vehicles whose factory front size is 255/50R17. Sizes can vary by trim, so confirm yours before you buy.

  • 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  • 1995 Chevrolet Impala
  • 1994 Chevrolet Impala

Popular brands in 255/50R17

The number beside each brand is how many of its models come in this size.

What 255/50R17 means

255/50R17 designates a tire 255 mm (10.0") wide with a sidewall 50% as tall as it is wide — about 128 mm (5.0") — mounted on a 17-inch wheel. That works out to an overall diameter of roughly 27.0", a circumference of about 84.9", and approximately 746 revolutions per mile. Exact figures vary slightly by manufacturer and tread design.

Of the 4 255/50R17 tire models we track, the most common category is ultra high performance summer (2 models), followed by performance all-season (1) — a good indicator of the kind of vehicles and driving this size is designed for.

Sidewall height
128 mm
Overall diameter
27.0 in
Circumference
84.9 in
Revs per mile
746

Frequently asked questions

What does 255/50R17 mean?

255/50R17 breaks down as follows: 255mm is the tire's section width (the widest point), 50 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R means radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches.

What vehicles use 255/50R17 tires?

255/50R17 is a common fitment for vehicles like the 1996 Chevrolet Impala, 1995 Chevrolet Impala, 1994 Chevrolet Impala. Always confirm your specific trim's fitment before purchasing.

How tall is a 255/50R17 tire?

A 255/50R17 tire has a sidewall height of about 128 mm (5.0") and an overall diameter of roughly 27.0", turning approximately 746 revolutions per mile. Actual dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer and model, so confirm against your vehicle's placard before changing sizes.

255/50R17 research guides

Summer vs all-season tires

Where summer tires lose grip, the cold-cracking risk, and what all-season tires trade for their range.

Read the guide

Speed rating chart

A practical chart for common tire speed ratings and what they mean for everyday driving.

Read the guide

Changing tire size

Plus-sizing and alternate sizes: diameter limits, load and speed ratings, and speedometer error.

Read the guide

Confirm 255/50R17 fits your vehicle

Wheel size can vary by trim and option package. Enter your year, make, model, and trim to verify fitment before you order.

Check my vehicle