JARGON BUSTERS

Key Features & Markings Explained

ELECT: Technology integrated for electric and hybrid vehicles to manage high torque, minimize road noise, and extend battery range.

• EU Grade A Wet Braking: The highest attainable safety rating, vital for minimizing stopping distances in wet Irish conditions.
• FR (Felgenrippe): An integrated Rim Guard feature (indicated by the 'FR' in the list) that provides physical protection to your alloy wheels from accidental curb damage.
• Seal Inside: An internal sealant technology that allows you to continue driving without air loss after a puncture up to 4mm.
• Run-Flat: Reinforced sidewalls that support the car's weight for up to 80km at 80km/h after a total loss of pressure.
• XL (Extra Load): Reinforced construction for heavier vehicles.
• OE Markings (AO, MO, VOL, ★): Pirelli's "Perfect Fit" strategy—tyres developed specifically for Audi, Mercedes, Volvo, and BMW.

Popular 17" Fitments for the Irish Market

• BMW 1 Series / 2 Series / 3 Series: (205/55 R17 & 225/45 R17) Precision-tuned with the ★ (BMW) marking for ultimate chassis harmony.
• Volkswagen Golf / Passat / Arteon: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) A premium upgrade for high-mileage commuters seeking "A" rated wet safety.
• Audi A3 / A4: (225/45 R17) Utilizing AO marked fitments to ensure peak braking performance and motorway stability.
• Mercedes-Benz A-Class / CLA / C-Class: (225/45 R17 & 225/55 R17) The MO spec guarantees compatibility with Mercedes-Benz electronic safety systems.
• Volvo V40 / V60 / S60: (225/50 R17) VOL marked versions designed to preserve the signature Scandinavian ride comfort.
• Skoda Octavia / Superb: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) Ideal for business users prioritizing low rolling resistance and long-term durability.
• Hyundai Ioniq / Toyota Prius: (215/45 R17 & 225/45 R17) Leverages ELECT technology to maximize hybrid and EV efficiency.
• Ford Focus / Mondeo: (215/50 R17 & 235/45 R17) Enhanced steering response and wet grip for regional Irish road driving.

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..

Pirelli Cinturato (C3) 17" Size List (Smallest to Largest)

• 205, 50, R17, 93W, XL, EVc
• 205, 55, R17, 91V, EVc
• 205, 55, R17, 95V, XL, EVc
• 215, 50, R17, 95W, XL, EVc
• 215, 55, R17, 94V, EVc
• 215, 55, R17, 98W, XL, EVc, Seal Inside
• 225, 45, R17, 91W, EVc
• 225, 45, R17, 94Y, XL, EVc
• 225, 45, R17, 91W, EVc, Run-Flat
• 225, 50, R17, 94Y, EVc
• 225, 55, R17, 97Y, EVc
• 225, 55, R17, 101Y, XL, EVc
• 235, 45, R17, 97Y, XL, EVc
• 245, 45, R17, 99Y, XL, EVc

Manufacturer-Specific Fitments (OE)

• 205, 55, R17, 91V, EVc, ★ (BMW)
• 225, 45, R17, 91W, EVc, AO (Audi)
• 225, 50, R17, 94V, EVc, VOL (Volvo)
• 225, 55, R17, 97W, EVc, MO (Mercedes-Benz)