I have had to replace one RFT early last year and few weeks back I got another bulging sidewall thanks to India's potholed laden roads. The traction control has been going off very frequently so I guess it's a sign that the tires are almost worn off as the car has clocked 27,000kms.

Now my question is, should I upsize??
The stock size is 225/50R17 as per my calculation the best upsize would be 245/45R17.
Comfort is important hence keeping the above mentioned size leaves the sidewall size at 4.5inches even after lowering the profile.
Although this setup would provide better grip levels, I am curious if it will develop a loss in fuel economy and power?
10mm increase in width should not make a noticeable difference but realistically how much load will it put on the car to increase the fuel consumption and shave off a small amount on my 0 to 60mph??

Another piece of advice needed:
There are limited choices available in 245/45R17 here, please help pick out the best from the list below:
Michelin Primacy HP
Dunlop Deraza 101
Yokohama V103 Advan

 

what ever you deceide it will be such an improvement, and i would think on very bad pot holed roads might be better as it will "soften" the ride over them

 

The Dunlops and Yoko's reviewed here -> http://www.tirerack.com/tires/surveyresult...amp;sortValue=1

More comments on the Yoko's -> http://www.productreview.com.au/showitem.p...IEWS&next=4

Michelin's reviewed here -> http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Grid/

Hope this helps make a selection.

BTW, I hate to think of the traffic there and your BMW sandwiched in-between, mind you last time I was there I saw Merc CLS's zooming around!