
The Mazda3 Axela comes with two tire model specifications: 205/60R16 and 215/45R18. For 205/60R16, the first number 205 indicates the tire width is 205MM, 60 represents the tire's aspect ratio of 60% (meaning the sidewall height is 60% of the width), and 16 denotes the rim diameter of 16 inches. The letter "R" in the middle stands for radial tire. For 215/45R18, the first number 215 indicates the tire width is 215MM, 45 represents the tire's aspect ratio of 45% (meaning the sidewall height is 45% of the width), and 18 denotes the rim diameter of 18 inches. The letter "R" in the middle stands for radial tire. The Mazda3 Axela offers two wheel rim styles: the 16-inch rims feature a dual five-spoke design, while the 18-inch rims adopt a multi-spoke radiant silver design. The spare tire is non-full size. If you wish to replace the tires yourself, follow these steps: Retrieve the spare tire and jack, place the jack under the vehicle frame near the tire to be replaced, ensuring it contacts the metal part of the frame. Raise the jack until it supports the car, making sure the jack is positioned vertically under the vehicle. Remove the hubcap and loosen the nuts counterclockwise. Do not fully remove them; just loosen enough to reduce resistance. Keeping the tire on the ground when first loosening ensures the nuts turn, not the tire. Continue turning the nuts counterclockwise until they are loose. Repeat for all lug nuts and then remove them completely. Place the new tire on the hub, carefully aligning the tire rim with the wheel bolts. Install the lug nuts and tighten them by hand until all nuts are snug. The tire replacement is now complete. In addition to the model specifications, tires also display the following common data: Tire cord material: Indicated by Chinese pinyin, such as M for cotton cord, R for rayon cord, N for nylon cord, G for steel cord, and ZG for steel radial cord tires. Speed rating: Indicates the maximum speed the tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. Letters A to Z represent speed ratings from 4.8km/h to 300km/h. Common speed ratings include: Q: 160km/h; H: 210km/h; V: 240km/h; W: 270km/h; Y: 300km/h. Rim specification: Shows the rim size compatible with the tire for practical use, such as "Standard rim 5.02F".

Last year I replaced the tires on my Mazda3 Axela and specifically researched data on different versions. There are two mainstream specifications: the base model uses 205/60 R16, while the high-performance sport version comes with 215/45 R18. Taking my 1.5L version as an example, it uses 16-inch tires with 205mm tread width and 60% aspect ratio - the thicker sidewalls provide a softer ride over speed bumps but noticeable body roll during cornering. My friend's top-spec 2.0L model with 18-inch low-profile tires offers precise handling and rail-like stability in corners, though with louder road noise and each tire costing over 400 yuan more. When changing tires, check the 3T index on the sidewall - A-grade traction provides more reliable wet braking. The factory-fitted Bridgestone T005 lasts about 50,000 km, while switching to Michelin PS5 brings noticeable noise reduction but reduced wear resistance.

As a frequent Mazda 3 (Axela) owner, the tire specifications are actually quite particular. The base model uses 205/60 R16 tires - smaller wheels with thicker tires, offering advantages like durability, affordability, and resistance to bulging when hitting potholes, though with softer handling. The high-end 215/45 R18 configuration has lower aspect ratio, providing surgical precision in steering and strong sidewall support during high-speed cornering, but the downside is these thin tires are more prone to blowouts, with replacements costing over a thousand yuan. Last year when helping a fellow owner change tires, I discovered even the wheel J values differ by specification: 16-inch uses 6.5J while 18-inch requires 7J for proper fitment. Northern owners should opt for all-season tires with snowflake symbols, while southern drivers benefit from better wet performance with summer tires. Regular tire rotation can extend lifespan by 20%.

Having worked on over twenty modified Axelas, I've observed two tire specification directions. The family-oriented version uses 205/60 R16 tires with a diameter of 65 cm, featuring thicker sidewalls for higher comfort but weaker grip. The sport version comes with 215/45 R18 tires (63 cm diameter), where the widened tread improves cornering limits by 30%. For tire replacement, I recommend upgrading to 225/45 R18 - the increased width enhances cornering stability, but requires ET45 wheels to avoid fender rubbing. The factory-recommended tire pressure is 2.3 bar, which should be adjusted to 2.5 bar after modification to improve support. Regarding tire lifespan, the thinner 18-inch tires typically need replacement every 3 years.


