Best Tires For BMW i8 - Complete Guide

‍8 Best Tires for BMW i8

The BMW i8 was unveiled in 2013 and first available to purchase in 2014 in Germany, and a few years later in the United States. For sports car fanatics, this car makes their driving dreams come true as it has so much to offer.

While it can be incredibly enjoyable to take this vehicle out for a spin, it is even more fun when your tires complement your driving habits. Those that enjoy taking long road trips are going to have different needs than someone who wants to take their BMW i8 out on the tracks.

Each category of tires has different features that make it special in its own way. At the end of this article is an easy guide to see all of the tire categories laid out and a description of each.

If you are unsure of which tire to chose along your tire hunting journey, always be sure to ask your local tire salesman to help answer any remaining questions. If you take the time to find the best fit for you and your vehicle, you will not be disappointed in the end result!

Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus - Best All-Season Tire

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The first tire to look at is the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus tire. This tire was created to handle all types of road conditions including dry, wet or snow conditions, hence the “DWS” in the name.

When you travel from one type of road condition to another, you will not have to worry about your tires keeping up because they were made to handle it all. The handling and grip through snowy situations is something that stands out with the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 plus tires.

The tread design was perfected and made to be able to push all excess water away from the base of the tire in order to prevent hydroplaning and giving you as much control as possible when the roads are wet.

Continental is a trustworthy brand that has been used by car owners for many years, so you can have faith that this is a great choice for your BMW i8.

Specifications

• Warranty: 50,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50-51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10“
• Tire Weight: 19-36 lbs
• Load Index:  83-114
• UTQG Tread Wear: 540
• UTQG Traction: A-AA
• UTQG Temperature:  A

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

These all-season tires can easily travel from one season to another throughout the year with ease. When out driving, if a snowstorm happens to hit you will be as safe as ever with these tires on board.

What is the road noise like?

On a scale of 1-10, the road noise rating was 8.3 and the overall quality of the ride was rate at 8.8.

What sizes are available?

These tires come in sizes 16”-22”.

Maxxis Bravo HP-M3 - Best Touring Tire

Are you looking for a comfortable tire? A tire that does not have much road noise and allows you to relax while you travel long distances is often referred to as a touring tire. One of the best options in this category for the BMW i8 is the Maxxis Bravo HP-M3.

The cross-hatch sipes in the tread design maximize traction when the roads are less than ideal, allowing you to stay in control even when there might be water present. To help push the water away, the circumferential grooves in the tread literally push water away to keep your grip high and your chance of hydroplaning nonexistent.

When traveling at high speeds (Because who doesn’t want to do this with a BMW i8?), having the most amount of control is crucial to staying as safe as possible while out on the streets. The is a continuous center rib that helps to increase stability and increase the traction with the pavement even more.

The best feature of this tire is the reduced road noise that creates a comfortable and enjoyable ride for passengers within the vehicle. With a warranty of 50,000 miles, you cannot go wrong with choosing Maxxis Bravo HP-M3 tires to pair with your BMW i8.

Specifications

• Warranty: 50,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10“
• Tire Weight:  N/A
• Load Index: 106
• UTQG Tread Wear: N/A
• UTQG Traction: N/A
• UTQG Temperature: N/A

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

These tires can handle all seasons well, so winter weather will not be an issue.

What is the road noise like?

These tires are very comfortable and do not create much road noise at all.

What sizes are available?

They come in sizes 16”-20”.

Nexen NFera SU1 - Best Summer Tire

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When it comes to a great summer tire, customers are usually looking for an option that allows them to have the most amount of fun while out on the road. The Nexen NFera SU1 tire is categorized as a summer tire, so it is only able to be driven in warmer weather.

With this summer tire comes great braking in short distances, the ability to stay in control with excellent handling at all times as well as comfort while on the roads. The Nexen NFera SU1 tire has little to no road noise and will help you have the most amount of fun while driving in the warmer months of the year.

Summer tires are oftentimes in the same category as performance tires, and this one is no exception. It is crucial that you do not take this tire into the colder months because it does not expand or contract as necessary when the temperatures drop below freezing.

The tread design on this tire pushes excess water away from the tires, allowing you to have maximum traction without hydroplaning in rainy situations.

Specifications

• Warranty: 25,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 9“
• Tire Weight:  N/A
• Load Index:  96
• UTQG Tread Wear: 300
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A  

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

These tires are not designed to handle winter weather at all and will not be safe for driving in below freezing situations.

What is the road noise like?

The Nexen NFera SU1 tire was created to maximize comfort in the warm months of the year, so you will experience little to no road noise.

What sizes are available?

These tires come in sizes 16”-24”.

Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32 - Best Winter Tire

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Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32 was designed to give drivers all of the features of a winter tire while still maintaining that sporty look. Driving on dangerous roads and in intense winter weather conditions can be very nerve-wrecking, but when your tires are there to make your job easier, it can be completely manageable.

Various aspects of the tread design help to increase the braking control and grip on ice and in snow. The confidence Bridgestone gives customers is second to none and is worth every penny when navigating hazardous conditions.

These tires were given the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Rating, which means they have been tried and tested and proven to handle the most intense of situations. When you choose a tire with this rating, you can be confident that your tires will handle the slick roads with ease.

Bridgestone also worked in a snow platform indicator to allow drivers to know exactly when the tread is compromised and when your traction is reduced. This allows you to know when to replace your tires before you get stuck in a situation where you cannot safely navigate the ice and snow.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 11“
• Tire Weight: 29 lbs
• Load Index: 98
• UTQG Tread Wear: N/A
• UTQG Traction: N/A
• UTQG Temperature: N/A  

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

On a scale of 1-10, Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32s were given a rating of 9.1 for light snow traction, 8.4 for deep snow traction and 8.0 for ice traction.

What is the road noise like?

These tires were given a road noise rating of 8.3 with an overall ride quality rating of 8.8 on a scale of 1-10.

What sizes are available?

Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32 tires come in sizes 17”-20”.

Pirelli P-Zero (PZ4) - Best High Performance Tire

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Since you purchased a BMW i8, chances are you like to push the speed limit from time to time, make sharp turns and probably tend to brake at the last possible second. If that is a pretty good description of your driving style, then you need high performance tires.

These tires allow you to stay in control even in situations when it might not seem possible. The Pirelli P-Zero (PZ4) tire is the OEM tire for a number of different sports cars, and for good reason.

This tire offers grip in dry or wet conditions, but is not recommended for handling ice/snow/slush. You will also experience excellent handling, a feature that is crucial when driving aggressively, as well as a long lasting tread life and even improved fuel economy.

Pirelli even took into consideration the driver’s comfort and added a Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS) by putting a layer of foam to absorb sound on the inside of the tire itself.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 9“
• Tire Weight: 20 lbs
• Load Index: 92
• UTQG Tread Wear: 280
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

These tires are not made for winter weather at all and are not safe to drive when the temperatures drop below freezing.

What is the road noise like?

On a scale of 1-10, the Pirelli P-Zero PZ4 tire was given a rating of 7.9 for road noise and 8.1 for ride quality, making them a pretty comfortable choice.

What sizes are available?

These tires are available in sizes 18”-24”.

Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 - Best Track and Competition Tire

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Michelin created this tire as a way for sports vehicles to maximize speed with each lap on the track. They are often made for vehicles such as Porsche 918 Spyder or Ferrari458, so it should come as no surprise that they are a great option for the BMW i8 as well.

Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires do not meet DOT requirements and cannot be taken out when there is any water on the road at all. Failure to follow this rule is putting yourself in grave danger, as they will hydroplane in the event of water on the roads.

These tires are excellent for sharp cornering on the track and for evenly distributing the weight of the vehicle on all four tires. The tread is made with Michelin’s Bi-Compound technology which means the tire is made with different rubber compounds. The tires will stay in contact with the track when taking corners at faster speeds.

There are several sensors that come with these tires to allow drivers to know exactly where their tires are at all times. This Michelin Track Connect system will keep you informed of your tires pressure and temperatures at any given time.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 7.2“
• Tire Weight: 21 lbs
• Load Index:  91
• UTQG Tread Wear: 180
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A  

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

Just like the inability to handle water on the roads, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires cannot handle any winter weather whatsoever.

What is the road noise like?

These tires were given a road noise rating of 7.4 and an overall ride quality rating of 7.9 out of 10.

What sizes are available?

The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are available in sizes 17”-21”.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 - Best Highway Tire

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Do you plan to take your BMW i8 out for very long road trips or do you have a lengthy commute to and from the office every day? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then a highway tire might be the way to go for your tire needs.

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 is a great highway tire because it was designed to handle mileage, all while still giving the features of high performance tires. These tires are made to handle any season of the year, so safety as the temperatures rise and fall is no longer a concern.

This tire was actually the number one OEM choice for the Corvette, so that should tell you all that you need to know. Michelin is a reliable brand and the Pilot Sport 4 is a trustworthy tire for any sports car fanatic.

Built with Helio+ Technology, these tires will have maximum traction even when the roads are freezing. The tread pattern is sporty and asymmetric, giving the most grip possible while on the roads.

Specifications

• Warranty: 45,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10“
• Tire Weight: 23 lbs
• Load Index:  92
• UTQG Tread Wear: 540
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A  

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

This tire is able to handle all seasons with ease and does not cause any problems going from extreme heat to extreme cold.

What is the road noise like?

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tire is a very comfortable tire to have on your vehicle as it creates little to no road noise.

What sizes are available?

These tires come in sizes 16”-22”.

Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season - Best OEM Tire

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The Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season tire is often what is found on several performance sedans, crossovers and SUVs. These tires allow drivers to push the limits while still staying as safe as possible. Manufacturers know that those purchasing a BMW i8 more than likely have a need for speed, and want a tire that can keep up with the driving demands.

Regardless of the season you are in, Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season tires offer maximum grip on the road - rain or shine. Slipping on the wet road is something no one wants to experience, so having a tire that can keep you in control at all times is crucial.

The internal structure of the tire is such that allows drivers to push speed limits, make more aggressive choices, and experience fun on the roads. Doing all of these things while staying safe is the only option, so having Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season tires is a safe and trustworthy choice.

Backed by a warranty of 45,000 miles, these tires will not let you down and allow you to get the most out of your BMW i8 purchase.

Specifications

• Warranty: 45,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10“
• Tire Weight: 24 lbs
• Load Index:  92
• UTQG Tread Wear: 540
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

On a scale of 1-10, the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season tire was given a rating of 8.3 for light snow traction, 7.7 for deep snow traction and 7.4 for ice traction.

What is the road noise like?

These tires will create little to no road noise and have a rating of 8.7 for noise and 8.8 for overall ride quality.

What sizes are available?

The Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season tire is available to purchase in sizes 16”-22”.

Buyers Guide

A closer look at the different categories of tires

• All-Season: These tires are designed to handle any type of weather situation from dry and sunny to extreme cold and ice. When you dress your vehicle in all-season tires, you are eliminating stress as the seasons change and your vehicle’s needs change. The best thing about these tires is that you can drive them all year long without a worry in the world.
• Touring: When you purchase a touring tire, chances are you are planning on spending a lot of time on the roads, whether you are dealing with a long commute or planning a long road trip. These tires are sometimes referred to as “grand touring” and provide drivers with maximum comfort while out on the streets.
• Summer: Summer tires are perfect for taking your vehicle out for a drive while soaking in the sun and even for navigating summer rainfall. These tires do not expand and contract as all-season tires do, so they must only be driven in the warmer months of the year to keep you as safe as possible. Summer tires are great at pushing excess water away and keeping the driver in control at all times, allowing you to drive aggressively and safely.
• Winter: A winter tire was made to be able to cut through thin layers of snow, ice and slush in order to have as much traction as possible in otherwise dangerous road situations. Winter tires are recommended for people who live in cooler climates and for those that experience intense and often extreme winter weather. When you purchase winter tires they must all be purchased at the same time, meaning you have to install them in groups of four. Often these are tires with directional tread, so only rotating them forward and back on the vehicle will help increase the traction even more.
• High Performance: High performance tires maximize your time on the road and allow you to take risks while driving because you are the one in control at all times. When you have these tires on your vehicle, they operate a lot like a summer tire in the fact that they will not be safe in freezing or below freezing temperatures. If you want to be risky with your decisions behind the wheel, it is best to have a tire on board that can keep up with your demands and keep you as safe as possible.
• Track and Performance: Track and performance tires are made for exactly what the name denotes - use on the track. These tires tend to not have as much traction needed for driving down the roads or through different weather conditions, so be sure to only use them as designed. For people who enjoy taking their vehicle to the track to maximize speed, these are the right tires for you.
• Highway: Life is a highway, and when you are traveling through a highway, the most important feature is to have long lasting tread, comfort and dependability. This category of tires features even weight distribution over all four tires, little to no road noise as well as the ability to navigate various weather situations. When out on a long road trip, the last thing you want to think about is whether or not your tires will slip in the rainstorm you see coming ahead. With highway tires, all of these concerns are taken away and all that is left is for you to enjoy your time on the roads.
• OEM: OEM tires stand for Original Equipment Manufacturer, meaning that this is the tire chosen by the manufacturer as the best option for your vehicle. These tires are often all-season tires that eliminate the stress of whether or not your tires can handle the changing temperatures. Most of the time this is a safe choice to go with if you are unsure of what tires to purchase for your vehicle.

What to Know Prior to Purchasing

• Driving Climate: The climate you plan to do the majority of your driving in is something that we have mentioned several times, but also something that must be taken into consideration. When you have a tire only made for warm climates in a cooler temperature, it is no longer safe or effective. Knowing where you will spend the majority of your time driving will help you to narrow down your hunt and land with the right tire for you. If you are unsure or if this is something that you don’t want to have to worry about, going with an all-season tire is always a safe bet.
• Driving Style: Since you purchased a BMW i8, chances are that you enjoy taking risks while driving and want to experience the thrill of your vehicle purchase. Doing so is completely up to you, but make sure that you always stay safe while behind the wheel. When you have a tire that keeps up with your driving habits and style, you can stay in control while making these often times more risky decisions while behind the wheel.
• Driving Distance: The distance you plan to travel will also impact the type of tire you plan to purchase for your BMW i8. When you put more miles on your vehicle, you want to make sure your tires are able to handle it. This means that having a tire with even tread wear or a long lasting tread is something that you will want to have.
• Driving Location: Purchasing a track and competition tire just because you think it will help you drive fast is an uneducated and unwise choice. You need to be aware of the location you will be driving and if you plan to take your tire on and off the track, you need to keep an eye on the weather and make sure it is dry before taking your vehicle out. The location - on the track, highway, or street driving - really makes a difference in your safety as far as the tires are concerned.
• Budget: There are a lot of financial aspects that go into owning a vehicle, from the price of the car, the insurance, gas, and accessories. All of these things add up over time, so make sure you are not choosing a tire just because it is the most affordable option. Often times, the cheapest tire doesn’t meet your other driving needs, and finding the right balance of it all can be time consuming, but could save your life in the event of an emergency. Knowing the price of the tires you are looking at will play a huge role in what you ultimately end up purchasing.

Regardless of the type of tire you end up going with, doing proper research prior to purchasing will help you make the best financial decision as well as a safe decision. While we tried to answer any questions you might have, there might be some remaining questions in your situation. Always speak to a tire professional to make sure you are getting the perfect match for your needs. Safety and efficiency are two things that will make your tire and BMW i8 purchases worthwhile in the long run.