A staggered tire setup refers to the usage of wider tires on the pushed axle of a automobile in comparison with the non-driven axle. Within the context of front-wheel drive autos, this may imply wider tires on the entrance. This apply contrasts with the extra frequent method of utilizing tires of uniform width on all 4 wheels or, in some efficiency rear-wheel drive autos, wider tires on the rear.
Matching tire width to the calls for of every axle can theoretically optimize traction and dealing with. Whereas wider rear tires profit rear-wheel drive autos by maximizing grip for acceleration, the impression on front-wheel drive automobiles is much less clear-cut and probably detrimental. Elevated rolling resistance and susceptibility to tramlining (following grooves within the highway) are among the many potential drawbacks. The advantages of improved cornering grip may be offset by elevated understeer and a compromised potential to place energy down successfully, particularly in moist or slippery circumstances. Traditionally, staggered setups have been much less frequent for front-wheel drive autos attributable to these components.