Rims & Tires

Buyer guide · 4 min read

Best Tires for Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ (and its sibling, the Toyota GR86) is a rare thing: a modern affordable rear-wheel drive sports car designed from the ground up for driver engagement. Tire selection has a disproportionate impact on the BRZ compared to most vehicles — the platform is tuned around a specific balance that a wrong tire choice disrupts.

Subaru BRZ tire sizes

ZD8 BRZ (2022-current): 215/45R17 (base MT), 215/40R18 (Premium, Limited).

ZC6 BRZ (2013-2021): 205/55R16 (base), 215/45R17 (Premium), 215/45R17 (Limited).

The current 215/40R18 is the standard Premium/Limited fitment.

Best tires — daily all-season

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ in 215/40R18: the most recommended BRZ all-season. Handles the BRZ rear-drive balance well — predictable at the limit, strong wet performance. The DWS indicators tell you when performance characteristics are changing.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 in 215/40R18: a step up in dry feel at the cost of some winter capability. For BRZ owners in warmer climates who want strong everyday performance.

Best tires — weekend/track

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S in 215/40R18: the benchmark for BRZ track days and weekend driving. Maximum dry grip, precise limit behavior. Summer only — not for cold weather.

Yokohama Advan Apex V601 in 215/40R18: a strong alternative to the Pilot Sport 4S at a lower price — excellent dry traction and steering feel, popular in the BRZ/GR86 community.

Bridgestone Potenza Sport in 215/40R18: high-performance summer tire with excellent turn-in response — suits the BRZ high-frequency steering feedback.

Frequently asked

How much do Subaru BRZ tires cost?

215/40R18 (all-season): $120–180 per tire. 215/40R18 (summer performance): $145–215 per tire. A set of four installed: $480–860 depending on compound choice.

Can I put wider tires on my BRZ?

Yes — 225/40R18 or 235/40R18 are popular width upgrades. Many BRZ owners prefer slightly wider tires for more contact patch. Check for rubbing at full lock and with suspension compression before committing. A wider wheel (8.5-inch width) typically accompanies the width increase.

Last updated 2026-06-27. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.

Get matched with the right shop

Tell us what you drive and what you want — we point you to the best rim & tire shop near you. Free.