Simple question really. How well does a 205/60R16 fit in the spare wheel well of a scout or other combi/estate? I currently have a factory 205/55R16 which is about an inch smaller than the tyres skoda fitted to the car.

I am sure my spare is that size but will fit anyway . I have 5 Zenith wheels and that size also fits.225 18 so boot carpet sticks up a bit

Excellent thanks. What profile are your 18's? 205/60R16, 225/50R17 and 245/40r18's are all within a few mm's for OD. Carpet sticking up won't be a problem, I need to go narrower to fit chains. I'd feel guilty going to a local tyre shop, trying a 205/60 in the boot and then buying them online.

Sorry yes my original spare is the same as yours 205 55 16 and as you say an inch or so spare, my Zeniths are 225 40 18 with that same amount spare , ( they are the same circumference I am sure the 205 60 will fit easily , but surely if you have chains on they will make the diameter larger? and aren't you coming into spring now in your Neck of the woods ?

Cheers. I won't be installing chains on the one in the spare-wheel well so that should fit ok. The pinch-point with the current wheels is between the inside of the tyre and the front struts, going skinnier to a 205 will give me another 10mm clearance, 205/60 on 6.5" rims will be about right if I can find a nice set. And yes we're in spring, I have about 8 months before I'll possibly need chains, but probably 6 months left before I'll need new tyres. I'll get a full set of 5 so the spare becomes full-size.

I don't understand why from the factory they put a spare that would be full-size and fully capable, but used a tyre one size down in profile.

I think it is to do with emissions , the lighter and more frugal your engine is the better tax band it is , especially for company cars

You shouldn't have a problem, I've managed to squeeze a spare 17" Proteous alloy in the Scout's boot.

Mark

In the UK I'd expect that, but here in NZ (it's a car built for the NZ market) we don't have tax bands for vehicle emissions. Other than being taxed every time you visit the pump of course.

I did notice the spare has balance weights that are completely different to ours (tyre fitters here still use lead, good eh?).