Best winter tire/wheel option for 2006 x3 w/Sport Package

[scout55]

Hello.
Just purchased '06 x3 w/sport package. I live in very snowy/hilly terrain. I planned to purchase snow tires. In researching the tires, it appears that I need winter wheels, too?? I am trying to assess the importance and necessity of the added expense of wheels. Wasn't expecting that. I guess I was spoiled by an '02 allroad. Thanks in advance for advice.

[samger2]

It all really depends on what size tire you currently have. I believe the sport package has 235/50R18 on all 4 corners. If that's the case, quite honestly I wouldn't think you'd need wheels also...a dedicated set of snows in that size would work just fine for you. However, if you have the optional 255/45R18...it maybe worth your while to drop to a 235/50R18 on the factory wheels just for the winter to get optimum traction.

I guess before we make too many suggestions we should start by finding out what your factory tire size is...both front and rear?