Top Reasons to Make Performance Tires Your First Upgrade
Discover why performance tires are essential for boosting your vehicle's speed and handling. From selecting the right tires to understanding key features, learn how upgrading tires can significantly enhance your driving experience without extensive costs. Prioritize tire quality for superior cornering, faster acceleration, and safer control in high-performance vehicles.

Top Reasons to Make Performance Tires Your First Upgrade
While a powerful engine, advanced suspension, and nitrous systems contribute to your car’s speed, the tires play a crucial role in delivering that performance. Vehicles with similar specs often differ in speed due to tire quality—better tires generally lead to superior handling and acceleration. Upgrading to high-performance tires is a cost-effective way to boost your vehicle’s capabilities. Keep reading to discover why choosing the right tires should be your top priority when enhancing your car.
- Prioritize Tires First
Many believe that upgrading engine or suspension components yields the best results, but neglecting tire upgrades can limit your car’s true potential. Effective cornering and acceleration rely heavily on high-quality performance tires, making them an essential upgrade.

- Value the Investment
If your vehicle’s price exceeds six figures, skimping on tires is not advisable. High-performance tires, though slightly more expensive, significantly enhance your car’s speed and handling, delivering the best driving experience.
- Understand Key Terms
Be cautious of terms like “ultra-high performance all-season tires,” which may not prioritize grip for spirited driving. Designed more for everyday comfort, these do not match the performance needs of fast cars. Instead, look for max performance summer tires or three-season variants, which excel in grip and stickiness. For even more aggressive driving, extreme performance summer tires are ideal.
- Selecting the Perfect Tire
Among similar options, wider and taller tires generally provide better road contact and grip. Performance tires tend to be broader than standard tires, pushing the limits of traction. For example, a 245/45R17 performance tire offers increased width and optimal diameter, about 25.7 inches, for enhanced handling.