When I finally wore out the stock Dunlop SP Sport 8000E tires on my A4 after 26,000 miles, I did some browsing in the A4.org forums and decided to try going with a size 225/50 tire versus the stock 205/55. Based on what I read, I was expecting better performance, slightly decreased wet traction, slightly rougher ride, slightly greater road noise, and a more aggressive appearance.

I decided to go with the Dunlop SP 8000 because it is exactly like the stock SP 8000E (with which I was very pleased), except it does not feature the rim protector found on the SP 8000E tire. I saw no need for the rim protector, especially when it apparently adds around $30-40 to the price of a single tire.

I am very pleased with the performance, appearance, and price of the 225/50 SP8000. Steering feel is much better, and turn-in is noticeably crisper. The ride is noticeably rougher, but the difference is not substantial. Ride is still good enough that comfort has not been compromised.

So far, I have not noticed any difference in wet traction, including commuting home over 30 miles of winding back roads one day in torrential rain. I suspect there is a slight difference very near the handling limit, as narrower tires generally have better wet and snow traction, but so far I have not detected this difference. The greater tread depth of the new tires is probably balancing things out somewhat.

The tires do make the car look considerably more aggressive, which, to me, is a welcome benefit.

Are the 225/50ZR16 Dunlop SP Sport 8000s right for you? That depends on how you drive your A4. Don't get them just for the way they look, unless you are also prepared to deal with the other ways they will change your A4. If you drive aggressively most of the time, you will almost certainly be very pleased with the 225s. If you just like to cruise with traffic, you might be happier with the 205s.