N-Rated Porsche tyres
Porsche design some of the best performance vehicles in the world, however, they know that if the wrong tyres are fitted the safety, performance and comfort will all be impacted. Despite the fact that some Porsche vehicles have identical tyre sizes, a bespoke tyre made with a specially selected rubber compound is developed for each individual model. As the range of Porsche vehicles expand and tyre sizes inevitably cross over, to make sure owners select only the approved tyres for their Porsche, a new classification for N-rated tyres has been introduced.
What is an N-rated tyre?
Before we look at the new classification system for Porsche tyres, let’s clarify exactly what an N-rated tyre is. N-rated tyres are approved by Porsche having met the highest standards set to enhance both performance and safety. An N-rated tyre is a tyre that’s been developed and tested by a tyre manufacturer alongside Porsche engineers with the “N” standing for Nürburgring, which is the famous motorsport complex Porsche tyres are tested at in Germany.
If you own a Porsche, choosing the right tyre is unfortunately not quite as simple as just selecting an N-rated tyre. Porsche tyres have historically been available in N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5 & N6 fitments, each number denoting the latest revision. So whilst an older Porsche may require an “N0” fitment, the latest model might need the newer “N6” fitment.
This system, despite being a little complicated, has worked well over the years. However, as Porsche has extended their range of models, this has recently led to an overlap in tyre sizes. So, for example, you might find the same tyre size as a front tyre on one model and a rear tyre on another. Clearly, as each tyre is designed specifically for each model they shouldn’t be interchanged. This is why Porsche has introduced a new system for N-rated tyres which helps both customers and tyre suppliers select the exact tyre designed for the model.
The new N-rated tyre codes
The new classification system for N-rated tyres
To make sure the correct Porsche tyres are fitted to the right vehicle, Porsche has introduced a simple solution which is to add a second letter to the N-rated tyre system to show exactly what model of Porsche they’ve been designed for. This means the exact letters and number ensure you’re fitting the exact tyre that’s been designed for and tested on your Porsche.
The new classification system includes a second letter indicating the specific Porsche model line, followed by a number denoting the tyre version. Let’s take a look at the examples for various Porsche models:
| Porsche model | N-Rated Tyre Codes |
|---|---|
|
911 Carerra |
NA 0, NA 1, NA 2 |
|
718 Boxster/Cayman |
NB 0, NB 1, NB 2 |
|
Cayenne |
NC 0, NC 1, NC 2 |
|
Panamera |
ND 0, ND 1, ND 2 |
|
Macan |
NE 0, NE 1, NE 2 |
|
Taycan |
NF 0, NF 1, NF 2 |
Key features of N-rated tyres
Porsche N-rated tyres undergo a comprehensive testing process, covering subjective outdoor criteria such as handling and driving comfort, objective outdoor criteria like braking performance and service life, and indoor criteria including rolling resistance and high-speed performance. These stringent tests ensure that every N-rated tyre lives up to Porsche’s high standards for dynamic and safe driving pleasure.
- Custom-Fit Tyre Geometry and Special Rubber Compound: Crafted for optimum performance, offering supreme quality.
- Short Braking Distances in All Weathers: Ensuring safety and control regardless of the road conditions.
- Maximum Control and Cornering Stability: Designed for an unparalleled driving experience.
- Tailored for the Vehicle’s Suspension System: Optimized for the spring/damper system, stabilizers, differentials, and control systems.