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What Size Rims Are on a 2016 Audi?

The stock rim size on a 2016 Audi depends on the specific model and trim, but most 2016 Audi vehicles came with factory wheels ranging from 16-inch to 21-inch in diameter, with popular sizes around 17–19 inches for mainstream models. Because “2016 Audi” covers many different models (A3, A4, Q5, etc.), the exact rim size can only be confirmed by knowing the model and sometimes the trim or package.

Why the Rim Size for a 2016 Audi Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Asking “What size rims are on a 2016 Audi?” is a bit like asking “What size shoes does a 2016 athlete wear?” The year and brand alone are not enough: Audi’s 2016 lineup spans compact sedans, luxury SUVs, performance coupes and high-powered sports cars, each with different wheel standards and options. In practice, Audi offered multiple wheel diameters, widths and offsets for most models, often tied to trim level (Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige), “S line” appearance packages, and performance variants like S and RS models.

Typical Factory Rim Sizes by 2016 Audi Model

The following section outlines common factory rim (wheel) diameters offered on major 2016 Audi models. These are typical ranges rather than an exhaustive catalog of every option code, but they reflect what most owners will find on stock vehicles.

  • 2016 Audi A3 / S3 (sedan and cabriolet): Commonly 17–19 inches

    • A3 base trims: typically 17-inch wheels
    • Upgraded/S line packages: often 18-inch
    • S3 performance models: usually 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels

  • 2016 Audi A4 / S4: Commonly 17–19 inches

    • A4 Premium: 17-inch standard wheels were typical
    • Higher trims / S line packages: 18-inch wheels common
    • S4 performance sedan: usually 18-inch, with 19-inch options

  • 2016 Audi A5 / S5 / RS 5 (coupe and cabriolet): Commonly 18–20 inches

    • A5: generally 18-inch standard, 19-inch optional
    • S5: commonly 19-inch standard
    • RS 5: performance-focused setups, often 19- or 20-inch wheels

  • 2016 Audi A6 / S6: Commonly 17–20 inches

    • A6 base trims: often 17- or 18-inch
    • Higher trims / S line: 19-inch are common
    • S6: typically 19- or 20-inch wheels

  • 2016 Audi A7 / S7 / RS 7: Commonly 19–21 inches

    • A7: usually 19-inch as standard, 20-inch optional
    • S7: often 20-inch standard wheels
    • RS 7: performance models frequently delivered on 20- or 21-inch wheels

  • 2016 Audi A8 / S8: Commonly 19–21 inches

    • A8 L: usually 19-inch standard, 20-inch and 21-inch as options
    • S8: most often on 20-inch wheels, with larger performance options available

  • 2016 Audi Q3: Commonly 17–19 inches

    • Base trims: typically 17-inch wheels
    • S line / higher trims: 18-inch or 19-inch wheels

  • 2016 Audi Q5 / SQ5: Commonly 18–21 inches

    • Q5: 18-inch standard, 19- and 20-inch options depending on package
    • SQ5: performance SUV with 20-inch standard wheels, 21-inch optional

  • 2016 Audi Q7: Commonly 18–21 inches

    • Base trims: often 18- or 19-inch wheels
    • Higher equipment levels: 20- or 21-inch wheel packages

  • 2016 Audi TT / TTS / TT RS (where available by market): Commonly 18–20 inches

    • TT: generally 18-inch standard, 19-inch options
    • TTS: typically 19-inch wheels
    • TT RS (in markets where offered by that year): 19- or 20-inch performance wheels

These ranges show that most mainstream 2016 Audi cars sit in the 17–19 inch zone, while performance models and large sedans/SUVs tend to move into 19–21 inch territory. Exact sizes, however, still depend on the precise configuration your car left the factory with.

How to Identify the Exact Rim Size on Your 2016 Audi

Because packages and regional differences can change wheel specifications, the most reliable approach is to check directly on the car or its documentation. Several easy reference points are available to owners and buyers.

Check the Sidewall of the Tire

The most straightforward method is to read the size from the current tires mounted on your Audi. The tire code not only reveals the tire size but also the rim diameter.

Here are the key elements you will see and how they relate to the rim:

  • Example marking: 245/40R18

    • 245 – tire width in millimeters
    • 40 – aspect ratio (sidewall height as a % of width)
    • R – radial construction
    • 18 – rim diameter in inches

If your 2016 Audi is still on stock-size tires, that final number will tell you the original rim diameter. If previous owners changed wheel sizes, this will reflect the current size but not necessarily the factory spec.

Read the Sticker on the Driver’s Door Jamb

A highly reliable way to confirm factory wheel specifications is the information label inside the car. On most 2016 Audis, this label is on the driver’s side door jamb or door frame.

The label typically includes:

  • Recommended tire size(s) and load ratings
  • Front and rear tire pressure settings
  • Sometimes notes on optional wheel/tire combinations

Because Audi lists recommended tire sizes by rim diameter, you can infer the factory wheel size(s) shipped with your specific vehicle and see if multiple sizes were approved from the factory.

Consult the Owner’s Manual or Build Sheet

Printed and digital documentation can confirm original wheel fitment, particularly when the car may have been modified over time.

Common documents to check include:

  • Owner’s manual – contains a tire and wheel section specifying standard sizes and approved alternates.
  • Original window sticker (“Monroney” label) – lists wheel size as part of standard equipment and options.
  • Dealer build sheet or VIN report – available via an Audi dealer or online VIN decoders, often showing exact wheel codes.

These sources are especially useful when buying a used 2016 Audi and wanting to confirm whether current wheels match original spec or an aftermarket upgrade.

Why Rim Size Matters on a 2016 Audi

Choosing the correct rim size for a 2016 Audi is not just about appearance; it affects safety, ride comfort and performance. Audi engineers tune suspension, steering and electronic systems with specific wheel and tire packages in mind.

Ride Quality and Comfort

In general, smaller wheels with taller tire sidewalls absorb bumps better, while larger wheels with lower-profile tires transmit more road feel—and more harshness—into the cabin.

Typical trade-offs include:

  • Smaller rims (e.g., 17–18 inch on sedans, 18–19 inch on SUVs)

    • Softer ride and better cushioning over potholes
    • More forgiving on uneven or rough roads
    • Usually cheaper to replace tires

  • Larger rims (e.g., 19–21 inch on S, RS, or Q models)

    • Sharper steering response and more direct handling feel
    • More aggressive, sportier appearance
    • Potentially higher risk of curb damage and pothole-related wheel bends

This balance explains why many mainstream 2016 Audi trims use mid-size wheels, while sport models lean toward larger diameters for more precise handling at the cost of some comfort.

Performance, Braking and Handling

Rim size also intersects with brake package and performance tuning, especially on S and RS models where larger brake rotors demand more internal wheel clearance.

Key considerations in performance Audis include:

  • Clearance for larger brake calipers and rotors on S4, S6, S7, SQ5, RS models
  • Use of wider wheels and tires for better grip and cornering stability
  • Wheel offset and width specified to maintain proper suspension geometry and steering behavior

Using non-approved wheel sizes or offsets on a 2016 Audi can lead to rubbing, incorrect speedometer readings or undesirable handling traits, which is why sticking close to factory-approved ranges is recommended.

Can You Change Rim Sizes on a 2016 Audi?

Many owners upgrade or downsize wheels on their 2016 Audi for style, seasonal tires or performance. Audi’s engineering tolerances usually allow limited changes as long as overall tire diameter remains close to factory spec and wheels meet correct width, offset and load ratings.

Staying Within Safe and Practical Ranges

Most Audi owners who change rim size move one step up or down from stock, making it easier to maintain proper overall wheel/tire diameter and avoid clearance issues.

Typical, generally safe adjustments (when done correctly) include:

  • From 17-inch to 18-inch or vice versa on A3, A4, A5 and similar models
  • From 18-inch to 19-inch on sedans and smaller SUVs
  • From 19-inch to 20-inch on higher-end or S line vehicles

Any change should be paired with an appropriate tire profile so that total rolling diameter stays close to original—for example, going from 245/40R18 to a 245/35R19 to keep speedometer readings accurate and avoid driveline stress.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Wheels

Owners can choose between original Audi wheels and third-party aftermarket brands. Each route has implications for fitment and reliability.

Comparison points include:

  • OEM (factory Audi) wheels

    • Guaranteed correct bolt pattern, hub bore and offsets for that model
    • Engineered to meet Audi’s load and durability standards
    • Often more expensive but lower risk of fitment problems

  • Aftermarket wheels

    • Broader style and finish options
    • Need careful verification of bolt pattern, offset (ET), center bore and load rating
    • Poorly chosen wheels can affect handling, tire wear and even safety

For any changes to rim size on a 2016 Audi, verifying compatibility with a reputable wheel/tire shop or Audi dealer is the safest route.

Key Takeaways and How to Get a Precise Answer

Without the specific model and trim, the best that can be said is that most 2016 Audis shipped with wheels between 16 and 21 inches, concentrated around 17–19 inches for standard cars and 19–21 inches for performance and large luxury models.

To know the exact rim size on a particular 2016 Audi, you should:

  • Identify the exact model (e.g., 2016 Audi A4, Q5, S6, etc.) and trim level
  • Check the tire sidewall for the current wheel diameter
  • Look at the driver’s door jamb sticker for factory-recommended sizes
  • Review the owner’s manual, window sticker or dealer build sheet

Combining the model/trim information with these reference points will give a definitive, model-specific answer rather than a broad range.

Summary

A 2016 Audi does not have a single standard rim size; instead, wheel diameters vary widely by model and trim—roughly 16–21 inches, with 17–19 inches the most common on mainstream sedans and compacts, and 19–21 inches typical for performance and large luxury models. To determine the exact size on a particular car, you must know the specific model and then confirm via the tire sidewall, door jamb sticker or official documentation. Staying close to factory-approved wheel sizes is essential for maintaining ride quality, safety and the handling characteristics Audi engineered for its 2016 lineup.

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