Best Tires for Subaru WRX: Complete Guide

8 Best Tires for Subaru WRX

When it originally entered the United States in 1992, the Subaru WRX was offered in sedan or wagon body style. Over time it changed and became the sports car you know it as today. Many Subaru WRX drivers enjoy the thrill of driving and want to take their time on the road more seriously and have fun taking risks that other drivers might not enjoy. This is a sports car, so therefore you need tires that can support your driving, no matter where you decide to go driving (on the highway or on a track).

The Subaru WRX is a highly sought after sports car that many people purchase with one main goal in mind: to have fun! While it is important to stay safe at all times on the roads, there are some tires that allow drivers to safely take more risks than other tires.

The eight tires listed below have all been tried and tested by Subaru WRX owners and have been proven to be the best option in their particular category. Knowing what type of tire you need will help narrow down your search until you land on the best option available that meets your needs.

If you ever have any questions while shopping and hunting for the perfect tire, always ask your tire salesman for a professional and educated opinion. The right tires can take your Subaru WRX to the next level.

Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring - Best Touring Tire

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When it comes to a great touring and all-season tire, you cannot go wrong with choosing the Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring tire. This tire performs well and is also a very affordable option. Touring tires were made to handle the mileage on a long commute or a road trip across the state or country. With this tire you can expect a lot of enjoyable features, making it the reason why so many people choose these Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring tires.

Driving down the highway is relaxing for drivers, most of the time. If you have a tire that creates a lot of excess road noise, it can make it difficult to relax, but with the Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring tire, you will not have to worry about this one bit! The road noise is almost non-existent, but your comfort will be of top notch importance. With the elimination of bumps or vibrations from the road, the drive is comfortable and more pleasant than if you had other tires on your Subaru WRX.

As these tires wear, the Cooper tire manufacturer has made it possible to determine the amount of tread left and will make it simple for you to see at what point your tires need to be replaced. This keeps you safe and informed about the status of your tires at all times. When it is time to replace your tires there will be no question where your treadlife is at any given time. For people who are unfamiliar with tires, this is a very handy feature that keeps you safe and informed at all times.

The all-season capabilities really shine when you are wanting to travel at various points in the year. The Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring tires can grip the concrete in rain, shine, or even light snow. If you are driving in a lot of hazardous conditions, you might need tire replacements sooner than someone who lives in a moderate climate. Nevertheless, this tire will be there for you when the weather changes and becomes unpredictable.

Specifications

• Warranty: 80,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
• Tread Depth: 11-12”
• Tire Weight: 19-32 lbs
• Load Index: 84-106
• UTQG Treadwear: 780
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

How often should I rotate my tires?

It is recommended that you have your tires rotated every 8,000 miles.

Is the tread directional?

No, which means you are free to rotate the tires anywhere you wish on your vehicle.

How is the road noise?

On a scale of 1-10, these tires scored a 7.5 for road noise and a 7.8 for overall ride quality.

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 - Best Performance Street Tire

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With tires that can handle any weather condition and perform well at the same time, you can’t ask for much more. The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 tire was designed to thrive in all weather conditions - dry, wet and snow.

Built with Continental’s Sportplus+ Technology, your tire will give you maximum handling of your vehicle while staying in contact with the road the entire time you are driving. With built-in indicators, you will know when the tread is going down and which functions of the tire are no longer possible as the tire wears. There will be letters visible for you to see “DWS'' and when the tread goes down, the letters will go away. This helps keep you safe and aware of exactly where your tire is at all times.

With the ability to push water away, the tread was carefully designed and perfected to keep you from hydroplaning in wet conditions. Traction with the road is crucial for sports car drivers, especially those with a Subaru WRX. Since some drivers enjoy taking more risks behind the wheel, you need to make sure your tires can support this type of driving at all times. The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 tire does just that and makes it possible to drive how you want, when you want.

Backed by a warranty of 50,000 miles, these tires will perform and allow you to have fun driving your vehicle in the process.

Specifications

• Warranty: 50,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10”
• Tire Weight: 17-22 lbs
• Load Index: 83-95
• UTQG Treadwear: 560
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 tire is available in sizes 16”-22”.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity for these tires is 1,074 -1,521 pounds.

How do these tires drive in snow?

These are an excellent choice for driving through deep snow as they have a great traction with the road and the ability to push snow or water away from the tire.

Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport - Best All-Purpose Tire

High performance summer tires are perfect for drivers who are needing their tires to help them commute to and from work or for fast paced driving in the city. The Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport tire allows you to drive at higher speeds while still staying in control of your vehicle. This is an all around great tire for the Subaru WRX and that is why it is in the all-purpose category, it can handle any weather and any road condition.

The tread pattern was designed to handle any season of the year, but really shines in warmer temperatures. If you find yourself with these tires in a light snow situation, they will perform adequately, but they are not recommended for deep snow driving.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport tire not only performs well on the roads, but it also looks good in the process. This sporty tire will make your vehicle look and feel more like a sports car instantly. Many people choose their tire based on appearance and how it makes the vehicle look. If you are this type of person, then you will like the Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport because it has a very “sporty” appearance.

The only thing your Subaru WRX is missing is a set of Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport tires! This all-purpose tire will be a perfect match for your driving style and your vehicle will look good with them on board.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10”
• Tire Weight: 19-29 lbs
• Load Index: 83-99
• UTQG Treadwear: 340
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

This tire is available in sizes 16”-19”.

How do these tires drive in snow?

These tires are not made for snow or ice driving, but they will handle any rainy conditions with ease.

How is the road noise?

These high traction tires do not create much road noise at all.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S - Best Summer Tire

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This summer tire is the perfect option for people needing great performance features while out on the roads for their sports car. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is a great option for dry or wet driving, but will not perform well in snowy conditions, and it is considered to be unsafe for colder climates. If the temperatures regularly dip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit where you plan to do the majority of your driving, then these tires will not be a good match for you. If your temperatures are relatively warm, then you will be happy you chose the Michelin Pilot Sport 4s tires.

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tire not only performs great, but it also looks great. This tire will make your car look like a sports car by just installing them on your Subaru WRX. The intricate tread design was made to help push away water in rainy conditions, which prevents you from hydroplaning when accelerating or braking when there is water on the roads. When the sun is shining and there are no weather issues, you can expect your Subaru to fly like an eagle in dry conditions.

Summer driving is a main reason many people are drawn to the Subaru WRX in the first place, and installing a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires to your Subaru will make you fall even more in love with your vehicle. People who love to spend time in their vehicle on the roads want a tire that can make their time on the road even more enjoyable. Without many bumps or vibrations and with little road noise, this vehicle is a top choice for many Subaru drivers.

Backed by a warranty of 30,000 miles, this summer tire will allow you to make memories upon memories, all while staying as safe as possible.

Specifications

• Warranty: 30,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 9-9.5”
• Tire Weight: 18-24 lbs
• Load Index: 84-99
• UTQG Treadwear: 300
• UTQG Traction: AA
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tire is available in sizes 17”-23”.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity for this tire is 1,102 to 1,709 pounds, depending on which size tire you purchase.

How do these tires handle snow?

These tires are not safe for driving in snow or ice.

Goodyear Eagle Sport All-Season - Best All-Season Tire

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Goodyear has been a trusted tire brand for years and years, and for good reason. This company has perfected the all-season tire and made it to be a highly sought after tire for many vehicles, including the Subaru WRX. Choosing a tire that has been used by many friends or family members is always a safe bet because you know that you can trust this company to provide a great tire for your vehicle.

This tire provides responsive handling in addition to traction in any season of the year. The peace of mind that comes with not having to worry about whether or not the conditions outside are safe for you to drive on is worth every penny for most customers. All-season tires allow you to drive any time of the year without having to worry about the safety or security of your vehicle at any time.

The Goodyear Eagle Sport All-Season tire is known for its ability to grip the road as you use your sports car how it was designed to be used. Taking corners quickly and braking in short distances will not be a problem with these tires on board. Goodyear prides themselves on creating a long lasting and durable tire to match your driving style, and this particular tire does just that.

The tread is designed to maximize the mileage you put on the tires and allows it to wear evenly over time. You will also get rim protectors built into the tire to prevent any curb rash from happening as you drive. With this tire, you can expect miles of bliss while out cruising the streets.

Specifications

• Warranty: 50,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10”
• Tire Weight: 37 lbs
• Load Index:105
• UTQG Treadwear: 560
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

This tire comes in a variety of sizes from 15”-22”.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity for this tire is 2,039 pounds.

How is the winter weather driving?

The Goodyear Eagle Sport All-Season tires were designed to handle any season of the year, so in the winter months or in extreme cold situations, you will still have great traction and control of your vehicle.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 - Best Winter Tire

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When the weather gets dangerous, you want to make sure you have tires that can get you to and from your destinations easily and safely. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 tire is an excellent choice for navigating these conditions for sedans, sports cars and minivans.

While they are necessarily a sports car tire, they do give you the traction you need while driving in these hazardous conditions. With the ability to handle your vehicle on slippery roads, the Blizzak WS90 tires truly deliver when it matters the most.

You can expect ease in braking at short distances, little to no fishtailing or hydroplaning and complete control with these tires on your Subaru WRX. It is important to always drive cautiously, and even more so in dangerous conditions, but these tires will help you relax a little bit while you are in a snowstorm out on the streets.

All winter tires are recommended to be installed in groups of four to keep the traction as high as possible. When rotating your tires, be sure to only rotate them forwards and backwards and keep them on the original side of the vehicle that they were installed on.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 11-12”
• Tire Weight: 17-32 lbs
• Load Index: 82-104
• UTQG Treadwear: N/A
• UTQG Traction: N/A
• UTQG Temperature: N/A

FAQ

Are these tires good for driving on dry roads?

While the original design for this tire is for ice or snowy conditions, you will still experience excellent traction on dry roads, too.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity for the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 tire is anywhere from 1,047 to 1,984 pounds.

How is the road noise?

With these tires you can expect little to no road noise.

Kumho Ecsta V720 - Best Performance Track Tire

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This “extreme performance summer tire” is also classified as a “streetable track and completion tire”, meaning it was designed to perform. You can expect to have amazing handling and control of your vehicle while driving. Most people who purchase this tire plan to spend the majority of their time driving on a track and not as much on the highway or city streets.

The Kumho Ecsta V720 tire was made for warmer temperatures and it is not recommended that you drive this tire in below freezing temperatures or in any snow or ice conditions. You will not have much traction to navigate these conditions at all and you will be much safer to use another tire if you live somewhere that has cold weather. Another reason why this is not a great tire for cooler temperatures is  that it cannot expand and contract as necessary with the frigid temperatures.

Most of the time this tire is purchased for people that enjoy the thrill of driving. They do not meet all requirements for the DOT but they will more than likely result in hydroplaning when driving through wet roads, therefore it is crucial that you use them for the designed purpose - driving on a track.

If you plan to drive at very high speeds and take corners without slowing down much, then you will want an extreme high performance tire, like the Kumho Ecsta V720 tire on your Subaru WRX.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 6.5”
• Tire Weight: 41 lbs
• Load Index: 99
• UTQG Treadwear: 200
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

This tire only comes in one size, 19”.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity for the Kumho Ecsta V720 tire is 1,709 pounds.

What are these tires for?

These tires are mostly for people that plan to drive their vehicle on a track, not necessarily for the roads.

Nexen Winguard Winspike WH62 - Best Winter Tire

Sometimes the weather conditions are so hazardous that even a regular winter tire cannot safely navigate them. With the addition of studs to the tires, however, your traction is secure and much more safe for you to drive where you need to be. Studded winter tires are able to cut through the ice in order to give you as much contact with the road itself as possible.

Nexen Winguard Winspike WH62 tires are made for sedans or coupes looking for maximum traction in snow or ice. Deep snow driving is made possible with these tires as they are able to cut through to the road to allow you to control your vehicle while driving. Without traction, you cannot get where you need to be safely, especially if you live in a region that has several hills or even mountains.

Most winter tires are recommended to be installed in a set of four for maximum traction, and it is also important to have a professional install the studs so you do not puncture the tire at all. When you attempt to install these on your own, there is a high chance that you might damage the tire which is very dangerous for when you plan to go out on the icy roads.

These winter tires are comfortable for passengers within the vehicle and will keep you safe in the most hazardous of conditions outside. There is not a warranty with most winter tires, but most tire companies are there to help you handle any issues that might arise while driving with winter tires on your vehicle.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 12”
• Tire Weight:  lbs
• Load Index: 101
• UTQG Treadwear: N/A
• UTQG Traction: N/A
• UTQG Temperature: N/A

FAQ

What sizes are available in this tire?

The Nexen Winguard Winspike WH62 tire comes in sizes 14”-18”.

What is the load capacity?

The max load capacity is 1,819 pounds.

How is the road noise?

You will not experience much road noise with Nexen Winguard Winspike WH62 tires.

Buyer’s Guide

What to Know About Purchasing Tires

• Style - How you drive makes a big difference on which tires you need for your vehicle. It is not a one size fits all situation, everyone has the opportunity to truly customize their vehicle to meet their specific needs. Since you are purchasing a sports car, make sure you know exactly how you plan to use your vehicle before purchasing tires.
• Weather - How are the temperatures where you drive? If it drops below freezing frequently, make sure your tires are able to stay flexible and handle the temperature changes because some of them do not.
• Mileage - How far you plan to drive will also help eliminate some of the tires from the list of contenders. You will want a tire that can handle mileage and has a long lasting tread life to get the most out of your purchase.
• Cost - Owning a Subaru WRX does not mean you have to have the highest priced tires to get the most out of your vehicle. With lower costing tires on the market, you can find a tire that allows you the freedom to pay a lower cost while still getting what you need out of the tire itself.
• Speed - Driving at higher speeds than the average driver can be a lot of extra work for your tires, so making sure your tires can handle faster speeds is important to your safety while out on the roads. If you are wanting to drive on a track, then make sure your tires can handle that type of terrain, but also remember that track tires are not designed for day to day driving on the city streets.
• Size - Each tire on the market comes with a variety of size options for your Subaru WRX. When you are choosing your tire for purchasing, make sure you know exactly what size you are wanting and needing for your vehicle to speed up the process and to ensure you are getting what you need.
• Tread - Some tires have a directional tread that is designed to increase your traction with the road. If the tires you choose have directional tread, make sure you are aware of this so you can properly care for your tires. When rotating tires with directional tread you must only rotate them forwards and backwards and keep the tires on the original side of the vehicle they were installed on. Failure to do so will prevent your Subaru WRX from maintaining a strong grip with the road when you travel at higher speeds, thus making it very unsafe for you and other drivers on the roads.
• Comfort - Your comfort matters while you are behind the wheel of your sports car, so always double check the road noise and ride quality ratings and reviews before purchasing your tires. If you are driving and have a constant vibration or experience a bumpy ride, it can be distracting and unsafe for you as well as very uncomfortable.
• Safety - All of the listed tires are a safe option, as long as you follow the criteria listed for each tire. If you are driving a track tire in cold temperatures, then it is up to you to know the risks involved with this. Ultimately, you are the one behind the wheel and it is important that you make the best decisions while driving to stay as safe as you possibly can.