Tires: Tire width, kia sorento, dry traction

Question
I have a 05 Kia Sorento, stock tires are 245/70-16.
Would I lose anything (gas mileage/handling)going with a 65 or 60 series tire? What size (255/265/275) would I have to use to keep diameter the same?


Answer
Jim,

Making small changes in tire size is a relatively minor thing compared to what can happen between different tires (brand, type, pattern, etc.)

But directionally, you would be going for better handling, dry traction, and  worse ride, fuel economy, hydroplaning resistance, snow traction.