Why it’s important your SUV has the correct tyres

Over the past ten to 15 years, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have come to dominate the car sales charts in Ireland. So far this year, SUVs account for eight out of the top ten selling vehicles across the country, from the Nissan Qashqai to the Hyundai Tucson, and more compact options like the Ford Puma and the Opel Mokka.

As well as being practical, the SUVs in the market now are considered to be some of the most comfortable cars that money can buy. But while much of their appeal is down to the features and technology onboard an SUV – it’s also a result of their shape and design, which is inspired by their off-road heritage.

Research by Continental Tyres has shown that the main reason SUV or 4x4 owners purchased their car was for the elevated driving position and extra headroom, leg room and storage space.

And because their roof lines don’t sweep down towards the boot of the car as they do on a saloon or estate, visibility is improved, and space can be used more effectively.

Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland says: “SUVs have become very much the predominant vehicle choice for car buyers in Ireland. SUVs are generally larger and thus heavier than a traditional hatchback or sedan so drivers of SUVs need to keep that fact in mind when it comes to replacing tyres on their vehicle. Another important consideration for SUV drivers is how and where they generally drive their vehicle”.

Continental has put together a checklist to run through when you’re thinking about tyres for your SUV.

• Is it electric, hybrid or does it have a traditional combustion engine?

• How powerful is it?

• How large and heavy is it?

• Do you often tow heavy loads?

• Is it an AWD (all-wheel drive), 4WD (fourwheel drive/4X4/four-by-four) or 2WD (twowheel drive)?

• Do you often face tough conditions like gravel, mud, snow, and steep inclines?

• And will you use it in the city or suburban areas?