Yeah, it's not a Volvo issue, it's the industry trend based on customer demand. Again though, a 4" rock is not small thing, that could damage all sorts of tires. The lower profile is going to be more prone to a "snakebite" type of damage than an 18". I think it's important to not that while these tires and wheels are more susceptible to damage, it's also what nearly everyone has... so it's not like all we do is replace blow outs and bent rims these days. Most folks go years without any problem at all. So if you go on a crusade against them, you will look like a crazy person.
Now the good thing is, it's a trend... so like I said, you can probably find someone who feels they got stuck with the cheapskate smaller wheels who will be thrilled to trade with you. The only cost is switching the wheels and getting the two cars calibrated, but far cheaper than buying another set of wheels and tires.
I'm not on a "crusade." This was literally my first trip on a dirt road since I bought the car and I'll only go on dirt roads a few times per year. I have no intention to "off-road."
I feel strongly that Volvo sells these vehicles on the basis of strength, safety, and general solidity. Although 8" of ground clearance does not automatically mean that rough roads are manageable, it does imply that the vehicle is designed for more than smooth pavement. That's why I bought it. It should handle reasonable potholes and flat dirt roads. It should've handled the situation I was in on Thursday -- 100% should've handled it with no hassle, as dozens of other cars have handled that road and driveway for many years without a tire bust -- including my own hyper-sensitive and delicate BMW 335, which has been up and down that road and driveway many times with no issues.
No amount of irritated posters (all much smarter and wiser than me, no doubt) telling me how unreasonable nor stupid I am will have any effect on me right now. You can't sell a solid SUV with tires that go "boom" at the smallest rock. Perhaps Volvo needs to step up and disclaim their own setups, loud and clear, before purchase -- e.g. "This vehicle is not designed for dirt roads, period! Small rocks may harm your tires! Pirellis are for smooth pavement only!" or whatever is necessary -- and make sure that dealers have 18" wheels in the pipe and that these can be swapped upon customer request -- even for a fee, if necessary. If that sounds unreasonable, well, go peddle your comments and attacks somewhere else. I have the right to my opinion, even if it is wrong, because I've just had an actual experience with a brand-new vehicle that was infuriating and expensive, costing me a half-day's work in addition to the $435.00.
That said, I'm willing to be wrong -- perhaps this was a "freak" event. I certainly hope so for the sake of my health and finances. Time will tell. If I have another "crater event" before 40,000 miles, I will definitely swap out the wheels to the next bidder.
Like I said, I will follow up on this as experiences unfold, and I will tell the truth.
