Tires: tire sizes, rollover propensity, nissan pathfinder

Question
David I have a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder SE 4+4 with 255-65-R16 tires and would like to put 255-70-R16 Liberators as replacements. I would like your advice as to the wisdom of the size difference? I like the Liberators and that is the nearest in size available. Thank you. Bob5

Answer
Dear Bob,
Thank you for using AllExperts!
Let's look at the overall diameter difference between the two tires:
P255/65R16 = 29.29" (deep traction tires)
P255/70R16 = 30.31" (deep traction tires)
More than an inch difference.
The P255/70R16 tires would be outside of the generally acceptable limits (tire industry) for replacement tires (overall diameter) and would have an adverse influence on your odometer, speedometer and braking efficiency. I doubt that your Nissan owner's manual recommends this.  
I have other concerns for SUVs:  Any increase in the tire's overall diameter will increase the center of gravity of your vehicle, thus increasing its rollover propensity (see safercar.gov for the rollover rating for your particular vehicle).  I cannot in good conscience recommend a taller tire for your vehicle that may decrease its safety and handling.
DT