2022+ GR86 / BRZ Compatible Tire Sizes

The second-generation Toyota GR86 (ZN8) and Subaru BRZ (ZD8) represent a significant evolution of the lightweight sports coupe platform. Introduced for the 2022 model year, this generation features a 50% increase in torsional rigidity, revised suspension geometry with a 10mm wider rear track, and the naturally aspirated 2.4L FA24 boxer engine producing 228 hp. The chassis prioritizes handling precision and driver engagement, making tire selection critical for extracting the platform’s full performance potential. This guide provides comprehensive tire compatibility information for the second-generation FT86 platform. For the original ZC6/ZN6 platform (2013-2020), see the first-generation tire guide.

For detailed wheel fitment including offset recommendations and brake clearance, see the ZN8 Toyota GR86 Wheel Guide or ZD8 Subaru BRZ Wheel Guide. For quick-reference wheel and tire combinations, consult the FT86 Gen 2 Wheel and Tire Cheatsheet.

Factory Tire Specifications

The second-generation GR86 and BRZ came with different tire specifications depending on trim level and wheel package:

The factory tire selection reflects the different performance priorities. The base GR86 with 17” wheels came equipped with Michelin Primacy HP, a grand touring all-season compound prioritizing comfort and longevity. These tires are no longer produced in the OEM size which makes for a great time to upgrade. The higher trim models with 18” wheels and the 10th Anniversary Special Edition came with Michelin Pilot Sport 4, a max performance summer tire offering substantially better grip and steering response.

When using a tire size different from the OEM specification, the rule of thumb is to maintain a ±3% variance in overall tire diameter. This ensures speedometer and odometer accuracy remains acceptable, ABS and traction control systems function properly, vehicle dynamics such as braking and handling are not adversely affected, sufficient tire clearance is maintained within the wheel wells, and front fender liner clearance is preserved (oversized diameters will rub).

The following sections list all compatible tire sizes within 3% of the factory diameter. Please note that these are theoretical tire size fitments based on diameter calculations. Having a size listed here does not mean a tire is manufactured in that size, nor that your desired tire model will be available in that size. Consult the Tire Recommendations by Category section to verify actual tire availability.

17” Tire Sizes for the 2022+ GR86 / BRZ

The 17” wheel diameter is the most popular choice for track-focused owners seeking reduced rotational inertia, lower tire costs, and exceptional compound selection in the 200-treadwear category. The factory 215/40R18 has an overall diameter of 24.7 inches (62.8 cm). The 17-inch sizes below maintain this diameter within the 3% tolerance.

The 17” diameter offers superior tire selection for autocross and track use, with nearly every extreme performance summer tire manufacturer offering 200TW compounds in 245/40R17 and 255/40R17 sizes. The taller sidewall provides better compliance over mid-corner bumps and progressive breakaway characteristics compared to 18” alternatives. Additionally, 17” tire costs are typically 20-30% lower than 18” equivalents.

For even more 17” tire size options, check out our tire size table or tire size calculator.

18” Tire Sizes for the 2022+ GR86 / BRZ

The most common street setup is 245/35R18 or 255/35R18 on 18x9.5” +40 to +45 wheels. This configuration offers excellent tire selection across all performance categories while maintaining the factory diameter. Note that 40-series tires in widths of 245mm and above (e.g., 245/40R18) exceed the 3% diameter tolerance and will rub the front fender vent on the GR86 during normal driving.

For even more 18” tire size options, check out our tire size table or tire size calculator.

Tire Recommendations by Category

The FT86 platform’s rear-wheel-drive layout, naturally aspirated power delivery, and momentum-focused chassis make tire selection critical for performance and enjoyment. The following categories represent the spectrum of tire options available for this platform.

Extreme Performance Summer Tires

For canyon carving, autocross, track days, and maximum dry grip, extreme performance summer tires deliver the ultimate in streetable cornering capability. These tires typically feature 200-treadwear ratings or lower, aggressive tread compounds, and stiff sidewalls that provide exceptional steering response and lateral grip. The trade-off is cost, reduced treadlife, and unsuitable performance in temperatures below 40°F (4°C).

Popular choices in this category include the Yokohama ADVAN A052, Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS, Falken Azenis RT660+, and Nankang Sportnex CR-S. These tires are purpose-built for competitive driving where ultimate grip outweighs daily usability.

Max Performance Summer Tires

The sweet spot for enthusiastic street driving and very occasional track use, max performance summer tires deliver exceptional dry and wet performance while maintaining the road manners expected of premium vehicle fitments. These tires typically feature 300-treadwear ratings, refined ride quality, and predictable behavior that can handle spirited driving and daily commutes with equal capability. The trade-off is reduced ultimate grip compared to extreme performance tires, though they compensate with superior wet traction, longer tread life, and better everyday usability. These tires are engineered for drivers seeking performance that can transition from canyon runs to daily commutes without compromise.

Ultra High Performance All-Season Tires

For drivers seeking year-round capability without sacrificing performance, ultra high performance all-season tires balance dry and wet grip while remaining usable in light winter conditions. These tires typically feature 500+ treadwear ratings, refined ride quality, and the quiet comfort expected of premium vehicle fitments. The trade-off is reduced ultimate dry grip compared to summer tires, though they compensate with genuine winter capability that summer tires cannot provide. These tires are engineered for drivers in moderate climates who want one set of tires capable of handling everything from spirited driving to snow-dusted morning commutes.

Winter / Snow Wheels and Tires

For true winter conditions, dedicated winter tires are essential. The FT86’s rear-wheel-drive layout and relatively low curb weight make proper winter tires critical for safe operation in snow and ice. A popular winter setup is 17x7” or 17x7.5” wheels (if not running OE Brembos) with approximately +45 to +50 offset paired with 205/50R17 or 215/45R17 winter tires. The narrower footprint and taller sidewall maximize contact pressure to cut through snow and slush while providing additional sidewall protection against winter potholes. While typical winter setups are with the OE treadwidth or narrower, moving to 225 treadwidth affords some additional winter tire selection.

Performance Winter and Snow

Performance winter tires balance winter grip with year-round usability. These tires feature aggressive tread patterns with sipes (small slits) to enhance snow and ice traction, while maintaining reasonable handling on dry roads. These tires are engineered for drivers in moderate winter climates who need reliable cold-weather performance without sacrificing too much summer handling.

Studless Ice and Snow

Studless ice and snow tires deliver maximum winter performance without metal studs, using advanced siping and tread rubber compounds that remain pliable in extreme cold. These tires excel in severe winter conditions including ice, packed snow, and slush, but trade away some dry-road handling and tread life. These tires are best suited for regions with long, harsh winters where maximum winter grip outweighs summer usability concerns.

Important Fitment Notes

While all sizes listed are within 3% diameter tolerance, tire size alone does not determine fitment. You must also consider:

Wheel Width: Tire manufacturers publish recommended wheel width ranges for each tire size. A 255/40R17 tire on a 17x8” wheel will have different fitment characteristics than the same tire on a 17x9” wheel. Narrower wheels create a “stretched” fitment with less sidewall support, while wider wheels provide a “square” fitment with better sidewall stability. See our FT86 Gen 2 Wheel and Tire Cheatsheet for validated combinations.

Wheel Offset: Lower offsets push the tire outward toward the fender, increasing the likelihood of rubbing. See the 2022+ ZN8 GR86 Wheel Guide or 2022+ ZD8 BRZ Wheel Guide for offset recommendations.

Suspension Height: Lowered cars have reduced fender-to-tire clearance. What fits on stock suspension may rub when lowered. Coilovers are mandatory for wheels wider than 8.5” due to interference with the front suspension (see the ZN8 GR86 Wheel Guide for detailed explanation).

Tire Shoulder Profile: Some high-performance tires, particularly 200TW “competition” tires, feature “square” shoulders that measure wider than their stated section width. For instance, a 255/40R17 Federal 595RS-RR may measure closer to 265mm in actual width. This can affect fender clearance on aggressive fitments.

Front Fender Liner Vent Clearance: The factory 215/40R18 measures 24.7” overall diameter. Oversized tire diameters like 245/40R18 or 255/40R18 (25.7” to 26.0” diameter) will rub the front fender liner vents constantly during normal driving. These sizes exceed the ±3% diameter tolerance. Stick to properly sized alternatives like 245/35R18 or 255/35R18 to maintain clearance.

Rear Bumper Tab Modification: The second-generation chassis features a metal flange where the rear bumper meets the quarter panel that protrudes into the wheel well at approximately 60 degrees. When running 255mm+ tires on wheel offsets of +40 and lower, the tire shoulder will impact this tab under heavy suspension compression, cutting grooves into the sidewall. This requires trimming the protruding metal flange flush with the spot welds and relocating the bumper attachment point. This is commonly performed in the enthusiast community for aggressive track setups.

Additional Resources

• Detailed Wheel Fitment: See the ZN8 Toyota GR86 Wheel Guide or ZD8 Subaru BRZ Wheel Guide for comprehensive offset recommendations, brake clearance, and real-world fitment examples
• Quick Reference: Gen 2 FT86 Wheel and Tire Cheatsheet for validated wheel and tire pairings