I bought my 2015 LX CVT to drive long distances. Typically 400 miles, sometimes 125, often 2500. I average 25-35,000 miles per year.

The LX CVT came standard with: Firestone FR740 185-60R15 84T treadwear 400 traction A tires, and (I believe) 15x5-1/2J wheels.

Which tires would you recommend I purchase to soften the road for long distances? Should I get larger and/or wider wheels?

 

the stock wheels are pretty comfortable already why would you want to change it already when it's brand new?
large and wider wheel may have problem mounting on stock 5.5" wheels.
just stick with OEM size.. 60 profile tire should give plenty of comfort.

 

Would a fatter tire than the stock 185-60R15 have any advantages?

 

No becuase it would be too fat for the narrow stock rims the most likely the tire ratio wouldbe incorrect when you go wider to 195 for example.
You would end up with poor performance. Best thing would be go for low resistance tire.

 

stock steel wheels are 15x6 not 5.5", a 6" wide rim can fit up to a 205 wide tire. To keep the diameter close to stock you'll have to have a smaller aspect ratio as you go wider.

I just replaced my the wheels/tires and boy the new ones ride sooo much quieter.

 

If ride comfort is your primary goal, you can move to a 14" wheel and 185/70R-14 tires.

 

The GK steelies are 6"?

That's cool. GE are 5.5. Guess i'll look out for GK throwaways.

 

Taller sidewall = cushier ride.

Maybe someone can chime in on how much bigger you can safely go, or you might want to go to a smaller rim to allow more sidewall without increasing your outer diameter.

 

I'm using 195/60-15 and it is much smoother and quieter ride. It is about 1/2" larger in diameter.

I also think that the stock 15x6 is a little wide for a 185. 6" wide rim is perfect for a 195 or a 205.

Theoretical diameter:
stock steel 15x6 185/60-15 = 603mm
stock aluminum 16x6 185/55-16 = 609.9mm

I'm using 195/60-15=615mm