When it comes to premium automotive engineering, Audi stands out for its combination of cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and exceptional performance. Whether you own an Audi A3, A4, A6, Q5, Q7, or a high-performance model like the S-Line, RS, or quattro variants, your tyres are critical in delivering the signature driving experience Audi is known for.
Choosing the right tyres for Audi in the UK means balancing performance, comfort, and safety. With ever-evolving weather conditions, diverse road surfaces, and demanding driving habits, it is vital to invest in performance-focused tyres specifically designed to complement Audi’s engineering precision.
This guide offers detailed insights into tyre selection for Audi vehicles, including performance tyres, Audi AO (Audi Original) marked tyres, tread patterns, seasonal choices, and where to book or purchase Audi tyres in the UK.
Why Performance Tyres Matter for Audi Vehicles
Performance tyres are designed to handle higher speeds, tighter cornering, and improved grip. Audi models, especially those with quattro all-wheel drive, benefit greatly from tyres that enhance responsiveness and traction. Unlike standard all-season tyres, performance-focused tyres are engineered with advanced rubber compounds and tread designs that maximise contact with the road.
Benefits of performance tyres for Audi models:
- Enhanced grip and traction, especially in dynamic driving
- Better cornering stability
- Improved braking distances
- Precise steering response
- Optimised for quattro systems and torque distribution
Audi’s suspension setups, often sport-tuned in S-Line and RS variants, demand tyres that can handle high lateral forces without compromising control.
Audi AO (Audi Original) Marked Tyres
When shopping for tyres, Audi owners are encouraged to select tyres marked AO, which stands for Audi Original. These tyres are co-developed with manufacturers like Michelin, Pirelli, Continental, and Bridgestone, and approved by Audi engineers to meet specific handling and performance criteria.
Advantages of AO-marked tyres:
- Developed to match Audi’s suspension and electronic systems
- Tested for optimal performance on Audi vehicles
- Ensure safety, noise reduction, and fuel efficiency
- Retain factory warranty integrity
There are also variants such as AOE (Extended/Run-flat), and RO1 (specific to Audi RS models).
Performance Tyres by Audi Model
Audi A3, A4 (Compact Executive Models)
These models combine efficiency with dynamic handling. Popular tyre sizes: 225/45 R17, 245/40 R18.
Recommended performance tyres:
- Michelin Pilot Sport 5 (AO): Offers exceptional dry and wet grip with long tread life.
- Pirelli P Zero (AO): Tuned for sharp cornering and responsiveness, ideal for sporty A3 S-Line trims.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 (AO): Excellent all-around performance with emphasis on braking and control.
Noise levels: Typically rated between 69–72 dB, with good NVH control in Audi’s cabin.
Audi A6, A7 (Luxury Saloon and Sportback)
These larger models need tyres capable of supporting higher loads and longer cruising comfort without sacrificing grip. Common sizes: 245/45 R18, 255/40 R19, 275/35 R20.
Top performance tyres:
- Continental SportContact 7 (AO): Offers sport-level handling and short braking distances.
- Bridgestone Potenza Sport (AO): Exceptional at high-speed stability and steering accuracy.
- Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2 (AO): Focused on ride comfort with strong cornering control.
Noise levels: Range from 70–73 dB, depending on tyre type and rim size.
Audi Q5, Q7, Q8 (SUV Models)
Audi’s SUV line-up, especially with quattro, requires tyres that balance road comfort with off-road durability and all-weather grip. Sizes vary from 235/55 R19 up to 285/35 R22.
Recommended performance SUV tyres:
- Michelin Latitude Sport 3 (AO): Designed for premium SUVs with high-speed handling and quiet ride.
- Pirelli Scorpion Verde (AO): Ideal for fuel efficiency and wet grip.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric SUV (AOE): Combines sport performance with SUV ride comfort.
Noise ratings: Average 70–74 dB, but cabin isolation on Q models reduces perceived in-car noise.
Audi S and RS Models (High Performance)
The S4, S5, RS3, RS6, RS Q8, and other performance models need ultra-high-performance (UHP) tyres capable of handling speeds over 155 mph, aggressive braking, and track-level cornering.
Top choices:
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 (AO): Ideal for track-ready RS models; unmatched dry performance.
- Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R (RO1): Extreme dry grip for racetrack-focused driving.
- Continental ExtremeContact Sport (AO): Street-legal UHP tyre with outstanding wet/dry balance.
These tyres have limited cold weather usability and are not suited for snow or freezing temperatures.
Seasonal Considerations for Audi Tyres in the UK
Given the UK’s variable climate, seasonal tyre considerations are essential for year-round safety and performance.
- Summer tyres (April to October): Best grip, handling, and responsiveness in dry and wet warm conditions.
- Winter tyres (November to March): Designed with softer compounds and unique tread for snow and ice traction.
- All-season tyres: Balanced performance but with some compromises in extreme cold or aggressive driving.
For Audi drivers commuting in areas prone to snow or ice (e.g., Scotland, northern England), winter tyres like Michelin Alpin 6 AO or Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ AO are recommended.
Tyre Labelling and Noise Regulations in the UK
UK and EU regulations require tyre labelling with:
- Fuel efficiency (A to E)
- Wet grip (A to E)
- External noise (in dB and sound waves)
Performance tyres for Audi typically score A–C for wet grip, with external noise ratings between 68–74 dB. Audi AO tyres often meet higher standards for quietness and efficiency, in line with the brand’s premium character.
Choosing the Right Tyres Based on Driving Style
| Driving Type | Recommended Tyre Type |
|---|---|
| City commuting | Comfort or all-season tyres (Michelin Primacy AO) |
| Motorway cruising | Touring performance (Goodyear EfficientGrip AO) |
| Spirited weekend driving | UHP summer tyres (Michelin PS5, P Zero AO) |
| Track or RS usage | Max-performance (Michelin Cup 2, Trofeo R RO1) |
| All-year rural usage | All-season or winter tyres (Goodyear Vector AO) |
Always ensure tyre load and speed ratings meet or exceed Audi’s factory recommendations.
Where to Book or Purchase Audi Tyres in the UK
Purchasing or booking tyres for Audi in the UK can be done conveniently online or via approved Audi service centres. Below are reputable sources where you can browse AO-marked performance tyres, compare prices, and book a fitting service.
Recommended Platforms:
- Blackcircles UK – www.blackcircles.com
- Kwik Fit Tyres – www.kwik-fit.com
- Halfords Autocentres – www.halfords.com
- National Tyres and Autocare – www.national.co.uk
- Audi UK Dealerships – Search via www.audi.co.uk
These websites allow you to:
- Search by car registration or tyre size
- View AO and performance tyre options
- Compare ratings for noise, fuel, and wet grip
- Book local garage appointments or mobile fitting
- Apply for seasonal storage or tyre protection plans