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In 2026, Irish drivers generally choose between two main options based on their year-round needs:
Summer Tyres: Optimized for maximum performance and safety when temperatures are above 7°C. While standard in Ireland, they lose grip in freezing conditions.
All-Season Tyres: A versatile hybrid designed to work safely from -10°C to 30°C. They offer a reliable compromise for dry, wet, and lightly snowy roads without the need for seasonal changes.
Because Ireland’s temperate climate rarely sees extreme snow, many drivers use summer tyres year-round, though all-season tyres are increasingly popular for added winter security.

Key Features Explained

• XL (Extra Load): Signifies a reinforced structure to handle heavier vehicle weights.
• EVc (Electric Vehicle Compatible): Indicates the tyre is optimized to handle the specific demands of electric vehicles, such as instant torque and heavier weight, while maximizing range.
• RFT (Run Flat): Allows for limited distance driving after a puncture, eliminating the immediate need for a spare tyre change.
• MFS (Maximum Flange Shield): A rim protector feature that helps safeguard alloy wheels from kerb damage.
• ENLITEN Technology: A suite of advanced manufacturing technologies that reduce raw material use, lower rolling resistance for better fuel efficiency, and increase the tyre's lifespan without compromising performance.
• 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake): All tyres listed are certified for genuine winter use, providing safety in snow and cold conditions. 

Popular Compatible Vehicles

• Hyundai Tucson / Santa Fe: Common fitments like 235/55 R18 and 235/60 R18 are popular for these family SUVs.
• Kia Sportage / Sorento: Compatible with sizes such as 235/55 R18 and 255/55 R18.
• Nissan Qashqai / X-Trail: Fits well with 225/55 R18 and 235/55 R18, offering an all-season upgrade.
• Volkswagen Tiguan / Touareg: Utilises sizes like 235/55 R18 and 255/55 R18.
• Ford Kuga / Edge: Compatible with mid-profile 18" options.
• Audi Q3 / Q5 / Q7: Suitable all-season alternatives to summer road tyres using 235/50 R18, 235/55 R18, and 255/55 R18 sizes.
• BMW X3 / X4: While many BMWs use specific OE summer RFTs, these all-season XL sizes are a popular choice for year-round convenience.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: Compatible with sizes like 235/60 R18 and 255/55 R18.
• Volvo XC40 / XC60 / XC90: Aligns well with Volvo's focus on safety, with sizes like 235/60 R18.

LOAD RATING  (the number)
This number tells you how much weight ONE tyre can safely carry
The higher the number, the more weight it supports
All four tyres together must safely support the full vehicle weight

Rule: Always match or exceed the vehicle’s required load rating.
Rule: Never fit a lower speed rating than the manufacturer specifies.

• 215, 50, 18, 92W, MFS, EVc
• 215, 50, 18, 96W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 215, 55, 18, 99V, XL, MFS, EVc
• 225, 40, 18, 92W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 225, 45, 18, 95W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 225, 50, 18, 99W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 225, 55, 18, 102W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 225, 60, 18, 104W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 40, 18, 95W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 45, 18, 98W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 50, 18, 101W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 55, 18, 104V, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 55, 18, 104W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 60, 18, 107V, XL, MFS, EVc
• 235, 60, 18, 107W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 245, 40, 18, 97W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 245, 45, 18, 100W, XL, MFS, EVc
• 245, 50, 18, 100W, MFS, EVc
• 255, 55, 18, 109W, XL, MFS, EVc