High performance tyres are engineered for drivers who demand more from their vehicles. Unlike touring tyres designed for comfort and longevity, performance tyres use softer, stickier compounds and stiffer sidewall construction to deliver faster steering response, stronger braking, and higher grip levels in both wet and dry conditions.
The difference isn't subtle — premium high performance tyres can stop 8-12 metres shorter in wet braking tests compared to budget alternatives. On New Zealand roads where rain and chipseal are common, that gap can mean the difference between stopping safely and not stopping at all.
Key Characteristics of Performance Tyres
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Speed ratings of V (240km/h), W (270km/h), or Y (300km/h) — indicating heat resistance at sustained high speeds
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Lower aspect ratios (35-45 series) — for sharper turn-in and reduced sidewall flex
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Advanced tread compounds — optimised for grip over maximum tread life
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Asymmetric or directional patterns — engineered for specific handling characteristics
NZ-specific note: Performance tyres developed on smooth European test tracks can behave differently on our chipseal. If you're doing lots of rural kilometres, consider a UHP all-season with slightly harder compound — you'll get better long-term wear without sacrificing critical wet grip. See our
full high performance guide for regional recommendations.
Not all high performance tyres are created equal. Choosing the right category for your driving and climate is more important than brand loyalty:
Maximum street grip when temperatures stay above ~7°C. Best dry/wet performance for spirited driving, track days, and performance daily drivers.
Life: 25,000-45,000km | Best for: Auckland, Tauranga, North Island
Year-round confidence with strong wet grip. Better cold-morning performance than pure summer tyres — ideal for NZ's variable weather.
Life: 50,000-80,000km | Best for: Wellington, Christchurch, South Island
Track-capable grip with maximum performance at the limit. Needs heat to work properly — not ideal for cold wet commutes.
Life: 15,000-30,000km | Best for: Track days, high-power builds
These are the most searched performance tyre sizes on our site. Click to browse available options, or use our tyre size guide to find your exact fitment:
Golf GTI, Mazda 3 SP, Focus ST, i30 N
WRX, Civic Type R, BMW 3 Series, IS350
Golf R, Audi S3, Mercedes A35 AMG
M3, C63, RS3, Performance sedans
Golf R, S3, A45 AMG (front)
Tesla Model 3, Kia Stinger
BMW M cars, Audi RS, AMG models
Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, MX-5
Can't find your size? We stock a wide range — request a quote with your rego and we'll confirm availability.
Speed ratings indicate how well a tyre handles heat buildup at sustained speeds. While you won't hit 270km/h on NZ roads, the rating affects construction, handling characteristics, and legal compliance — always match or exceed your vehicle manufacturer's requirement.
| Rating |
Max Speed |
Common Applications |
| V |
240 km/h |
Entry performance, sporty family cars |
| W |
270 km/h |
Most hot hatches, sports sedans (common) |
| Y |
300 km/h |
Sports cars, high-performance models |
| (Y) |
300+ km/h |
Supercars, unlimited top speed |
Insurance & WOF: Fitting tyres below your vehicle's required speed rating can create compliance issues and may void insurance in an accident. Not sure what you need?
Send us your rego and we'll confirm the correct spec.
