The stock tires are 235/65R 17 (7.5" wheels) and I want wider tires for two reasons:
1) To help give additional protection to the wheels--the tire will hit the curb first instead of the wheel.
2) To help fill the fender area--the stock tires are well inside and appear to be too narrow for the body style.

I am thinking about replacing the tires with one of two sizes.
A) 255/60R 17
B) 275/55R 17

Is there anyone out there who has performed this switch and can speak about the appearance and driving experience?

 

why don't you just pick up a set of 19" stock ml or gl wheels? ml tires are 255 wide, and gl tires are 275.

 

I would if I could find them for the right price. If I purchase new tires for the 17" wheels, the walk out the door price is $1000 for Michelin Latitude Tour HP tires. I suspect 19" wheels with almost new tires will be more expensive.

 

you can find good sets of tire on 19 for between 900-1200 on ebay