Tyre Speed Rating Chart – What You Need to Know (Does not apply to truck tyres)
Your tyre speed rating is an important factor when choosing new tyres. It indicates the maximum speed your tyre can safely handle when properly inflated and loaded.
How Is Tyre Speed Rating Determined?
Speed ratings are set through laboratory tests, where the tyre is:
- Pressed against a large metal drum to simulate road conditions
- Run at increasing speeds until it meets the required speed or fails
Important: Speed ratings only apply to tyres that are:
- Properly inflated
- Not overloaded
- Undamaged & unaltered
Tyre Replacement Tip: When replacing tyres, always match the speed rating to the manufacturer’s recommendation—or go for a higher-rated tyre.
Tyre Speed Rating Chart – South Africa 🇿🇦
| Speed Rating |
Max Speed (km/h) |
Typical Vehicle Type |
| L |
120 km/h |
4×4 & Bakkie Tyres |
| M |
130 km/h |
Spare Tyres |
| N |
140 km/h |
Spare Tyres |
| P |
150 km/h |
Winter 4×4 Tyres |
| Q |
160 km/h |
Winter Tyres |
| R |
170 km/h |
4×4 & Bakkie Tyres |
| S |
180 km/h |
Family Sedans & Van Tyres |
| T |
190 km/h |
Family Sedans & Van Tyres |
| U |
200 km/h |
Sedans & Coupes |
| H |
210 km/h |
Sport Sedans & Coupes |
| V |
240 km/h |
Sport Sedans, Coupes & Sports Cars |
| W |
270 km/h |
Exotic Sports Cars |
| Y |
300 km/h |
Exotic Sports Cars |
| ZR |
240 km/h+ |
High-Performance Sports Cars |
Where Did Speed Ratings Come From?
Speed ratings were first introduced in Germany, thanks to the Autobahn—a famous highway system with no universal speed limit for certain vehicles.
Fun Fact:
Speed ratings don’t follow the alphabet perfectly—for example, H is between U and V, and Z was once the highest rating until W and Y were added to match the speeds of modern exotic cars!
Speed Rating & Tyre Performance
Speed ratings aren’t just about speed! They also affect:
- Grip & Handling – Higher ratings mean better traction
- Braking Power – Faster response times
- Tread Wear – Higher-rated tyres wear out faster due to softer compounds
Pro Tip: Always have the same speed rating on all four tyres for balanced performance and safety.
How to Find Your Tyre’s Speed Rating
Check your vehicle’s manual or look inside:
- Driver’s side door panel
- Glove box door
- Fuel tank hatch
Find it on your tyre!
Your speed rating is the last letter in your tyre size code.
Example: 205/55R16 91V → “V” is the speed rating.
Need Help Choosing the Right Tyres?
Visit your nearest Tyres & More® fitment centre for expert advice and the best tyre deals!
