2014 Passat TDI wheels? 16,17 or18

I hope I am asking this question in the right place. We just bought a 2014 Passat TDI SEL and while we were looking at either the SEL or SE version. It seemed that they listed better fuel economy for the SE version?? The only real difference that I am aware of is the tires? Now that we have the car home, in the owners manual lists 3 tire options for the 2.0 215/60r16, 215/55r17 or 235/45r18(which we have) Looking at tire specs, from the 18 down, they drop about 1/2in in width each size. Does that width make a huge difference on mileage? And does anyone have any experience with the 16's on there car? Pics of 16's? I would also assume that the 16's would ride the best, then the 17's and 18's. Thanks.

The tire/wheel sizes were/are depending on the model bought.
I.e my Highline (SEL) factory size is 18". 235x45x18. I changed them to 235x55x18 for more heights because of where I live during the winter for more clearance.
For the lower models the 17" & 18" were/are or may be optional updates.
A narrower tire is said to have better traction on ice since more weight is put on a smaller surface. Similar to a woman's high heels.

Jetta_Pilot said:

I.e my Highline (SEL) factory size is 18". 235x45x18. I changed them to 235x55x18 for more heights because of where I live during the winter for more clearance.

Click to expand...

Did going to the 235x55x18 lower your fuel economy? I think that tire is a little wider than the 235x45x18?

The higher FE numbers you're seeing are probably for a manual transmission Passat, only available in the SE.