Auto Trader NZ
Published 28 March 2025
Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle can be a game-changer, not just for performance but also for safety and comfort. But with so many tyre types available, it’s easy to feel lost. So, let’s break down the differences and help you find the best match for your driving needs.
Types of Car Tyres
1. All-Season Tyres
These are the most common tyres found on cars in New Zealand. They offer a balanced performance in dry, wet, and light winter conditions. Ideal for everyday driving with good mileage and comfort.
Best For: General-purpose use, urban driving, moderate weather conditions.
Popular Brands: Bridgestone Ecopia, Goodyear Assurance TripleMax, Firestone Destination LE02.
2. Summer Tyres
Designed to provide excellent grip and performance in warm and dry conditions. They have less tread depth compared to all-season tyres, enhancing traction and precision on dry roads. However, they are not suitable for cold or icy conditions.
Best For: High-performance vehicles, sporty driving, and warm climates.
Popular Brands: Michelin Pilot Sport 4, Michelin Primacy 4, Bridgestone Potenza.
3. Winter Tyres (Snow Tyres)
Built to tackle icy, snowy, or cold conditions. These tyres have deeper tread patterns and softer rubber compounds to maintain flexibility in low temperatures.
Best For: Cold climates, snowy or icy roads.
Popular Brands: Bridgestone Blizzak, Michelin X-Ice Snow, Hankook Winter i*cept.
4. Performance Tyres
Tailored for high-speed and sporty driving, offering superior handling and grip. These tyres are common on sports cars and performance-oriented vehicles.
Best For: High-performance vehicles, spirited driving, and dry weather conditions.
Popular Brands: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, Bridgestone Potenza Adrenalin RE003, Pirelli P Zero Corsa.
5. Off-Road Tyres
These tyres have rugged tread designs and reinforced sidewalls to tackle dirt, mud, and rocky terrains. Perfect for SUVs and 4x4s that frequently go off the beaten track.
Best For: Off-road adventures, heavy-duty use, and unpaved roads.
Popular Brands: BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, Yokohama Geolandar A/T, Falken Wildpeak A/T3W.
6. Run-Flat Tyres
Engineered to keep functioning even after a puncture, allowing you to drive to a safe location for repair or replacement. They provide added convenience but may offer a stiffer ride.
Best For: Urban driving, areas with limited roadside assistance.
Popular Brands: Bridgestone DriveGuard, Michelin Primacy 3 ZP, Pirelli Cinturato P7 Run Flat.
7. Eco-Friendly Tyres
These tyres are designed to reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces carbon emissions. They are also made from more sustainable materials.
Best For: Environmentally conscious drivers looking to enhance fuel efficiency.
Popular Brands: Bridgestone Ecopia EP300, Michelin Energy Saver+, Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max.
Comparing Tyre Types
| Tyre Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| All-Season | Everyday use | Balanced performance in most conditions |
| Summer | High-performance driving | Excellent dry and wet traction |
| Winter | Cold, snowy, icy roads | Enhanced grip in freezing temperatures |
| Performance | Sports cars | Superior handling at high speeds |
| Off-Road | 4x4s, SUVs, rugged terrains | Robust build for tough conditions |
| Run-Flat | Urban driving, emergencies | Allows limited driving after a puncture |
| Eco-Friendly | Fuel economy, low emissions | Reduced rolling resistance |
Key Differences to Keep in Mind
- Performance & Handling: Performance tyres and summer tyres excel in dry conditions, while all-season and winter tyres offer more balanced performance in varying climates.
- Safety: Winter tyres are essential for icy and snowy conditions, while run-flat tyres add safety by allowing continued driving after a puncture.
- Durability & Efficiency: Eco-friendly tyres enhance fuel efficiency, while off-road tyres are built for durability.
What Do Car Tyre Letters Mean?
Tyre letters and numbers indicate the tyre’s width, aspect ratio, construction, wheel diameter, load index, and speed rating.
Final Thoughts
When choosing tyres, consider your driving conditions, vehicle type, and personal preferences. Whether you’re cruising the city streets or exploring rugged trails, the right tyres make all the difference.
Need new tyres? Make sure to check the production date and specifications to get the best performance. Drive safe and drive smart.
