JARGON BUSTED

Sidewall Markings Explained:

• BSW: Black Sidewall.
• OWL: Outlined White Letters.
• 10PR: 10-Ply Rating (heavy-duty commercial/off-road reinforcement).
• M+S: Mud and Snow rated.

Popular Compatible Vehicles

• Dacia Duster: The 215/65 R16 is the ideal upgrade for Duster owners seeking a rugged look and better trail grip.
• Toyota Hilux / Isuzu D-Max: Frequently use the 245/70 R16 and 255/70 R16 for utility and agricultural work.
• Mitsubishi L200: A popular fitment for the 265/70 R16 size.
• Nissan Navara (D22/D40): Compatible with 255/70 R16 and 265/70 R16.
• Land Rover Defender (Classic): The tall 235/85 R16 is a legendary fitment for maximum ground clearance.
• Suzuki Grand Vitara: Commonly utilizes the 215/70 R16 or 225/70 R16 sizes.
• Kia Sorento (First Gen): Often fitted with the 245/70 R16 for enhanced stability.

Summer tyres are most common in Ireland, offering peak fuel efficiency mileage and grip when temperatures stay above 7°C. However, they are not the official standard for winter safety. Motorists must show caution in cold conditions; below 7°C, summer rubber hardens, significantly compromising grip and wet braking performance on cold, saturated Irish roads.

All-Season tyres are the superior "fit-and-forget" solution for Ireland's wet, temperate climate. Specifically engineered to remain flexible in the cold, they provide shorter stopping distances on near-freezing, rain-soaked surfaces and carry the 3PMSF certification for frost and light snow. They offer total year-round peace of mind without the hassle of seasonal swaps.

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..

In 2026, the Sonar Conqueror SX-6 16" range is a staple for Irish drivers balancing daily road commutes with rural or site work. These sizes offer a robust 70/30 split, featuring reinforced carcasses and aggressive sidewall styling.

Available 16" Sizes and Markings

• 215/65 R16 98H BSW
• 215/70 R16 100H BSW
• 225/70 R16 103H BSW
• 235/70 R16 106H OWL
• 245/70 R16 107H OWL
• 255/70 R16 111H OWL
• 265/70 R16 112H OWL
• 235/85 R16 120/116S 10PR BSW