JARGON BUSTERS

Summer vs. All-Season:

Summer tyres like the Pilot Sport 5 use specialized compounds for maximum dry/wet precision and heat resistance above 7°C. All-Season tyres use flexible rubber for grip in both sun and snow. Due to Ireland's mild climate, most drivers prefer Summer tyres for their superior steering response and high-speed stability year-round, as extreme ice is rare.

Quick Guide: Markings & Features

• XL / FR: Reinforced for high-performance weight (XL) and integrated rubber ridges to protect alloy wheels (FR).
• OE Marks: Custom-tuned for ★ (BMW/Mini), AO (Audi), and MO (Mercedes).
• Dynamic Response: Aramid/Nylon belt provides razor-sharp steering and high-speed stability.
• MaxTouch: Evenly distributes forces for 15% better longevity than previous generations.
• EV Ready: Engineered for high torque and battery range preservation with a quiet tread design.
• Premium Touch: A sleek, velvet-effect sidewall finish for a high-end aesthetic.

Popular 17" Saloons, Hatchbacks & Estates

• BMW 3 Series: The definitive fitment for maintaining the 3 Series' legendary steering precision and balance.
• Audi A4: Enhances the front-end bite and wet-weather confidence of the popular executive saloon.
• Volkswagen Golf GTI: Provides the essential grip needed for high-torque front-wheel-drive performance.
• Ford Focus ST-Line: Sharpens the chassis response for a more engaging drive on Irish regional roads.
• Toyota Corolla GR-Sport: Delivers a more planted, athletic feel to the top-selling hybrid hatchback.
• Mercedes C-Class: MO-marked versions ensure the perfect blend of sporting performance and cabin quietness.
• Skoda Octavia RS: Offers high-speed stability and durability for one of Ireland's favourite performance estates.
• Honda Civic Type R (older models): Matches the aggressive handling requirements of high-revving Japanese performance.
• Mini Cooper S / JCW: The go-to choice for drivers demanding maximal "go-kart" agility.
• Volvo V60: Provides the necessary load-bearing strength and braking safety for premium performance estates.

Load Rating: Maximum Weight Capacity Explained

The load index is a numerical code representing the maximum weight in kgs that a single tyre can safely carry. To ensure safety, the combined capacity of all four tyres must exceed the vehicle’s total weight when fully loaded.

Speed Rating: Maximum Velocity Explained

Represented by a letter, the speed rating indicates the maximum kph a tyre can maintain over a prolonged period. Higher speed ratings are engineered to handle the heat and stresses generated at faster speeds more effectively.

Quick Reference Guide

• Check your requirements: You can find the specific requirements for your vehicle on the tyre information plate (usually located on the driver-side door pillar) or in the owner's manual.
• Replacement rule: It is vital never to fit a tyre with a lower load index or speed rating than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Common Ratings: Standard ratings include T (190 kph), H (210 kph), and V (240 kph). You can view a full conversion table below..

Available 17" Sizes:

Optimized for mid-sized performance saloons and "hot" hatchbacks in the 2026 Irish market.

• 205, 40, R17, 84W, XL, FR
• 205, 45, R17, 88W, XL, FR
• 205, 45, R17, 88Y, XL, FR
• 205, 50, R17, 93Y, XL, FR
• 215, 40, R17, 87Y, XL, FR
• 215, 45, R17, 91Y, XL, FR
• 215, 50, R17, 95Y, XL, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 91V, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 91Y, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 94Y, XL, FR
• 225, 50, R17, 98Y, XL, FR
• 235, 45, R17, 97Y, XL, FR
• 245, 40, R17, 95Y, XL, FR
• 245, 45, R17, 99Y, XL, FR

OE (Manufacturer Approved) Versions:

• 225, 45, R17, 91W, ★ (BMW)
• 225, 50, R17, 94Y, AO (Audi)
• 205, 45, R17, 88W, ★ (Mini)
• 225, 45, R17, 91Y, MO (Mercedes)