2021 Cadillac XT6 18 Inch Rims and Wheels

How to Choose Your Wheels

Wheels, also called rims, are one of the most impactful modifications one can make to their vehicle. With a simple bolt-on installation, a new set of wheels can completely transform the looks of your truck, Jeep, or SUV, resulting in a rugged aesthetic that shows off your unique style. 

Of the various wheel sizes, commonly running anywhere from 15–24 inches, one of the most popular OE and aftermarket sizes is 18 inches, offering the perfect balance between size and comfort. 18-inch wheels are large enough to showcase their unique styling yet small enough to allow a sizable sidewall, ensuring maximum on and off-road ride quality. 18-inch wheels also fall in the mid-range of weight, reducing unsprung weight and rotational mass.

With this in mind, it’s safe to say that most vehicles are compatible with 18-inch wheels, though there may be some exceptions. When selecting wheels for your ride, consider the following factors.

Ensure You Need 18-Inch Wheels

While 18-inch wheels fit most applications, some may not accept the size. For instance, 18-inch wheels may not have adequate clearance for vehicles with oversized brakes. In cases where 18-inch wheels may not be recommended, check out our selection of 17-inch and 20-inch wheels! For additional information, check out our comprehensive Wheel and Tire Fitment Guide on RealSource.

Style

What’s your preferred style? We offer 18-inch wheels with numerous face designs, ranging from factory-inspired OE Replica to stylish Deep Lip. 

Bolt Pattern/Center Bore

Beyond a wheel’s diameter, there are several other measurements to consider when selecting a wheel, namely bolt pattern and center bore. 

Bolt pattern refers to the number of wheel studs and the spacing between them. For example, a wheel with an 8x6.5 bolt pattern denotes eight lug holes and 6.5-inch spacing between two studs directly across from one another. When ordering a new set of wheels, verifying that the bolt patterns match is essential, allowing you to bolt the wheel to the hub.  

The center bore, or hub bore, is the hole in the center of a wheel that attaches directly to your vehicle’s hub. Most OEM wheels are hub-centric, meaning that the wheel is centered by your vehicle’s hub. However, most aftermarket wheels feature oversized hub bores. These wheels are typically lug-centric, meaning that conical lug nuts fit within conical bores on the wheel, which center the wheel as it’s tightened against the hub. Before ordering wheels, verify the diameter of the hub bore, as a hub bore that is too small won’t allow the wheel to sit flush against the hub. If the hub bore is too large, verify that you have the correct style and degree of lug nuts to ensure proper fitment.

Construction

What’s your preferred construction? While some prefer the durability and value of steel, others prefer the lightweight nature of aluminum. Aluminum wheels also feature numerous manufacturing processes, directly impacting pricing and durability. These include:

• Cast: The process of pouring molten metal into a low-pressure mold. The resulting wheel is sturdy and inexpensive but more prone to impurities in the metallurgy.

• Flow Formed: Also referred to as rotary forged and spun forged, flow-formed wheels are constructed using a pre-cast face and extreme pressure. The lip of the face is compressed and stretched to form the barrel, which results in a strong and dense final product. 

• Forged: Forged aluminum wheels are manufactured from a single piece of billet aluminum. The wheel is precision machined from high-grade aluminum, resulting in strong and lightweight wheels.

Finish

What’s your preferred finish? We carry all the top colors and coatings, including chrome, black, bronze, and more!

Width

Just as important as a wheel’s diameter is its width, preventing rubbing, scrubbing, and an unbalanced aesthetic. Most 18-inch wheels are available in sizes between 8–10 inches to suit a variety of builds.

Driving Preferences

Depending on your driving style, one wheel’s construction may be better suited for your application than others. Extreme use, such as offroading and racing, may benefit from the added strength of forged aluminum or steel, whereas cast aluminum will likely suffice for everyday street driving. 

18 Inch Rim Styles

We offer wheels in all the top styles, ranging from classic favorites to modern looks! 

Bullet Hole

Bullet hole wheels refer to any relatively flat and simple face design consisting of multiple holes, typically between six and ten. These wheels feature a timeless aesthetic that’s best suited for a classic build.

Concave

Concave wheels have grown popular in recent years, featuring a sunken-in center bore but tapered spokes that sit nearly flush with the wheel’s lip for a dramatic appearance.

Deep Lip

Nothing adds style like deep-lip wheels, featuring a flat or convex face that sits at least 2 inches inboard of the outer lip where the face meets the barrel. This style has become increasingly popular, especially on lifted show trucks running oversized wheels.

Directional

Directional wheels feature leaning or curved spokes that appear to be moving forward (digging) or rearward (swooping). In most cases, directional wheels have specific driver and passenger part numbers, ensuring both sides mimic one another.

HD

HD wheels feature a rugged aesthetic characterized by features like simulated bead locks and faux bolts. These wheels are most at home on off-road rigs or off-road-themed street rigs.

Mesh

Mesh wheels feature a series of interweaving spokes that form an intricate pattern, similar to mesh fabrics.

OE Replica

OE replica wheels are direct mimics of popular yet expensive OEM wheel designs. These wheels typically feature cast aluminum constructions and are available in various sizes and finishes not offered by the original manufacturer.

Spoked

Spoked is a rather broad category, covering any wheel with spokes that extend from a wheel’s lug bores to the outer barrel.

Vintage/Retro

Vintage/Retro wheels are inspired by designs from decades past, ideal for use on throw-back builds or restoration projects.

Popular 18-Inch Rims