JARGON BUSTED

Sidewall Markings Explained:

• BSW: Black Sidewall.
• OWL: Outlined White Letters (popular aesthetic).
• M+S: Mud and Snow rated.

Sidewall Markings Explained:

• BSW: Black Sidewall.
• OWL: Outlined White Letters (highly popular for 18" pickup trims).
• XL: Extra Load (Reinforced sidewalls for heavy SUV/towing use).
• M+S: Mud and Snow rated.

Popular Compatible Vehicles

• Ford Ranger / Wildtrak: The 265/60 R18 (OWL) is the definitive fitment for Ireland's best-selling pickup.
• Toyota Hilux (Invincible/Invincible X): Frequently uses the 265/60 R18 for a balance of style and durability.
• Volkswagen Amarok: Premium variants utilize the 255/60 R18 and 265/60 R18 sizes.
• Toyota Land Cruiser: The 265/60 R18 is a standard fitment for many modern passenger and commercial models.
• Mitsubishi Pajero / Shogun (Later models): Compatible with the 265/60 R18 size for enhanced trail grip.
• Land Rover Discovery Sport: Often fitted with 235/60 R18 for owners seeking more rugged capability than standard road tyres.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: Fits the 265/60 R18 size perfectly for an aggressive off-road look.

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 18" range serves high-specification pickups and modern SUVs in Ireland. Maintaining its 70/30 on/off-road split, this range offers the rugged aesthetic of an All-Terrain tyre with the refined diameter required for premium wheel fitments.

Available 18" Sizes and Markings

• 235/60 R18 107H XL BSW
• 255/60 R18 112H XL OWL
• 265/60 R18 110H OWL
• 275/65 R18 116S OWL
• 285/60 R18 116H BSW