Comfort and Performance

Finally need to replace the OEM RFT on my 2011 335D (w/MSport )

Rears are currently 255/35/18 and Fronts are 225/40/18 (RFT).

Been reading about the plusses and minuses of going to:
1.) OEM rear size of 255/35/18 and fronts of 225/40/18 (Non-RFT)
or
2.) Rears of 265/35/18 and Fronts of 235/40/18 (Non RFT)
or
3.) Rears of 255/40/18 and Fronts of 225/45/18 (Non-RFT)

My main goal is to obtain substantially more rim protection and comfort while not losing too much road-handling ability. Whatever the decision, I will not consider purchasing RFTs. For option 2 & 3, I also understand the speedo readings will change.

Gary,
Is it possible to use combination 2 & 3 on my vehicle without rubbing or unforeseen handling problems? (I was leaning toward option 3)

Acceptable front sizes are 225/40R18 or 235/40R18 on the stock front wheels. The rear wheels are only 18X8.5", so technically the widest that will work well on that size wheel is 255/35R18.

We've had a handful of reports of rubbing with the taller sizes you listed in #3 so I cannot recommend those sizes (although I have heard of some forum guys running them successfully).

Tires http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AB2&...ires/index.jsp

Thanks Gary on the prompt and clear explanation.