We're taking delivery on a base model 08 next week and are currently shopping for new tires/rims. We have a set of 15" rims picked out but don't know if we should go with the 195/50/15 or 205/50/15 tires. Our priority is gas mileage over performance, and we don't want any rubbing. I imagine the speedo will be slightly off either way. Not a big concern. Thanks for input.

 

Id say 205/50/15.

Tyler

 

I'd go with the 195s. They are the same width as the sport's tires and are slightly lighter. Less weight requires less engine effort, less engine effort better millage. Also since 195s are the same width as the sport's factory tires there shouldn't be any rubbing unless you have a certain wheel offset.

 

If economy is your bag, choose 175/65x15 tires of the highest wear rating, 400 or more. Narrower tires and slightly larger diameter (23.95 vs 23.44) yield the best mpg. The 2% speedo error is inconsequential. (61.2 real mph at 60 indicated). We ran those last winter in NC getting 3 to 4 better mpg than this summer with 205/40x17.
Tirerack offers a 175/65x15 for a 5 - 6" rim width Continental ContiPro for $73 with a wear rating of 400 plus shipping. If you get your wheels from them they will mount and balance for free I think.
As for the wheels I'd go 15x6" at 42 to 45 mm offset. There will beno rubbing. And the extra wide stance will be appreciated.
Good luck and enjoy.
PS the 195/50 is too small and the 205 is too heavy for good economy. And any offset less than 42 mm will rub with 205 section tires of stock diameter or possibly with 195's depending on how much less than 42 mm..