The first generation Subaru BRZ (ZC6), Scion FR-S (ZN6), and Toyota 86 (ZN6), collectively known as the FT86 platform, are lightweight rear-wheel drive sports cars that have become favorites among driving enthusiasts. While these cars excel in handling with their factory tire sizes, many owners explore alternative tire sizes for improved grip, better winter performance, or to accommodate aftermarket wheel setups. This guide provides a comprehensive reference for compatible tire sizes across the first generation platform’s three factory wheel diameters.
The factory fitment included 215/45R17 Michelin Primacy HP tires, famously shared with the Toyota Prius in some markets. These tires have a narrow section width and a flexible sidewall making a tire upgrade an easy upgrade to unlock more lateral grip.
Platform Note: The first generation Subaru BRZ (2013-2020), Scion FR-S (2013-2016), and Toyota 86 (2017-2020) share identical wheel and tire specifications. This guide applies equally to all three variants. For the second generation GR86/BRZ (2022+), see the ZD8/ZN8 tire guide. See our vehicle-specific wheel guides for Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S, and Toyota 86.
FT86 Factory Tire Sizes
The majority of the 1st Generation FT86 platform vehicles came with 215/45R17 tires from the factory. That being said, there were slight variations depending on the year, trim level, and market:
| Wheel Size | Factory Tire Size | Diameter | OEM Pressure | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16x6.5" +48 | 205/55R16 | 63.2 cm | Tire Rack | |
| FT86 Base (non-North American markets), BRZ RA (2013) | ||||
| 17x7" +48 | 215/45R17 | 62.5 cm | Tire Rack | |
| FR-S / BRZ / 86 Base (2013-2020), 86 GT (2018, 2019) | ||||
| 17x7.5" +48 | 215/45R17 | 62.5 cm | Tire Rack | |
| BRZ Performance Package, Series.Editions (2017-2020) | ||||
| 18x7.5" +48 | 225/40R18 | 63.7 cm | Tire Rack | |
| BRZ tS (2018, 2020), 2020 86 GT, 86 TRD Special Edition (2019), 86 TRD Handling Package (2020 option) | ||||
When using a tire size different from the OEM tires, the rule of thumb is to have a 3% plus or minus 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, and sufficient tire clearance is maintained within the wheel wells.
The following sections list all compatible tire sizes within 3% of the factory diameters. Please note that these are theoretical tire size fitments based on diameter calculations. Having a size listed here does not mean a tire is made in that size, nor that your desired tire model will be available in that size. Furthermore, some tires feature “square” shoulders while others have “round” shoulders. This can effectively add 10mm to the section width for a different model of the same tire size. Always verify fitment for your specific wheel width, offset, and vehicle modifications before purchasing.
16” Tire Sizes for the FT86 Platform
Factory 16” wheels were fitted to base models in non-North American markets and the 2013 BRZ RA, a stripped track edition which you most likely did not buy. The factory tire size was 205/55R16 with an overall diameter of 63.2cm. Many FT86 owners use 16” wheels for winter or dedicated track setups to reduce costs and unsprung weight. This comes at the sacrifice of tire selection which is typically better for 17” and 18” tires and fitting larger brakes that typically require at least 17” wheels.
| Tire Size | Diameter (cm) | %Δ from 205/55R16 | %Δ from 215/45R17 | %Δ from 225/40R18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 195/55R16 | 62.1 | -1.7% | -0.7% | -2.6% |
| 195/60R16 | 64.0 | +1.3% | +2.4% | +0.5% |
| 205/55R16 (OEM) | 63.2 | +0.0% | +1.1% | -0.8% |
| 215/50R16 | 62.1 | -1.7% | -0.6% | -2.5% |
| 215/55R16 | 64.3 | +1.7% | +2.8% | +0.9% |
| 225/50R16 | 63.1 | -0.1% | +1.0% | -0.9% |
| 235/45R16 | 61.8 | -2.2% | -1.2% | -3.0% |
| 235/50R16 | 64.1 | +1.5% | +2.6% | +0.7% |
| 245/45R16 | 62.7 | -0.8% | +0.3% | -1.6% |
For more sizes for aftermarket wheels checkout our tire size table or tire size calculator.
17” Tire Sizes for the FT86 Platform
Factory 17” diameter wheels came on the vast majority of FT86s. The factory 17x7” wheel was shod with 215/45R17 tires as was the 17x7.5”. This is an extremely common tire size and has excellent tire availability across all categories from economy all-seasons to high-performance summer tires.
| Tire Size | Diameter (cm) | %Δ from 215/45R17 | %Δ from 225/40R18 | %Δ from 205/55R16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 205/45R17 | 61.6 | -1.4% | -3.3% | -2.5% |
| 205/50R17 | 63.7 | +1.8% | -0.1% | +0.8% |
| 215/45R17 (OEM) | 62.5 | +0.0% | -1.9% | -1.0% |
| 225/40R17 | 61.2 | -2.2% | -4.0% | -3.2% |
| 225/45R17 | 63.4 | +1.4% | -0.5% | +0.4% |
| 235/40R17 | 62.0 | -0.9% | -2.7% | -1.9% |
| 235/45R17 | 64.3 | +2.9% | +1.0% | +1.8% |
| 245/40R17 | 62.8 | +0.4% | -1.5% | -0.6% |
| 255/35R17 | 61.0 | -2.4% | -4.2% | -3.4% |
| 255/40R17 | 63.6 | +1.7% | -0.2% | +0.6% |
| 265/35R17 | 61.7 | -1.3% | -3.1% | -2.3% |
| 265/40R17 | 64.4 | +3.0% | +1.0% | +1.9% |
| 275/35R17 | 62.4 | -0.2% | -2.0% | -1.2% |
For more sizes than those listed for ultra-wide aftermarket wheels checkout our tire size table or tire size calculator.
18” Tire Sizes for the FT86 Platform
Factory 18” diameter wheels were fitted to the BRZ tS, 86 TRD Special Edition and TRD Handling Package equipped models, and the 2020 86 GT. These models came with 18x7.5” wheels and 225/40R18 tires measuring 63.7cm overall diameter.
| Tire Size | Diameter (cm) | %Δ from 225/40R18 | %Δ from 215/45R17 | %Δ from 205/55R16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 215/40R18 | 62.9 | -1.3% | +0.6% | -0.4% |
| 215/45R18 | 65.1 | +2.1% | +4.1% | +3.0% |
| 225/40R18 (OEM) | 63.7 | +0.0% | +1.9% | +0.8% |
| 235/35R18 | 62.2 | -2.4% | -0.6% | -1.6% |
| 235/40R18 | 64.5 | +1.3% | +3.2% | +2.1% |
| 245/35R18 | 62.9 | -1.3% | +0.5% | -0.5% |
| 245/40R18 | 65.3 | +2.5% | +4.5% | +3.4% |
| 255/35R18 | 63.6 | -0.2% | +1.7% | +0.6% |
| 265/35R18 | 64.3 | +0.9% | +2.8% | +1.7% |
| 275/30R18 | 62.2 | -2.4% | -0.5% | -1.5% |
| 275/35R18 | 65.0 | +2.0% | +3.9% | +2.8% |
For aggressive 18” wheel setups (18x9” or 18x9.5”), popular tire sizes include 245/35R18 and 255/35R18. These sizes provide excellent grip while maintaining proper overall diameter. Note that wheel width, offset, and suspension modifications will affect which tire widths can be safely fitted.
Tire Recommendations
The FT86 platform’s lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive layout make tire selection critical for performance. The most common factory size, 215/45R17, offers the widest variety of options across all categories, while wider sizes like 245/40R17 and 255/40R17 are popular for aftermarket wheel setups running 17x9” or wider wheels. Check out our FT86 Wheel Tire Combo Cheatsheet for common known tire and wheel spec combinations.
When selecting tires, consider your driving conditions, climate, and performance goals. Below are some recommended tire categories and models suitable for the FT86 platform:
Extreme Performance Summer Tires
For track days, autocross, and maximum dry grip, extreme performance summer tires deliver the ultimate in 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 cold temperatures.
Popular choices in this category include the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS, Yokohama ADVAN A052, Hankook R-S4, and Falken Azenis RT660+. 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 occasional track use, max performance summer tires squeeze exceptional dry and wet performance from a tire while maintaining the road manners expected of high-end vehicle fitments. These tires typically feature 300-treadwear ratings, refined ride quality, and predictable behavior that can handle spirited canyon runs 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.
Popular choices in this category include the Continental ExtremeContact Sport, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, and Bridgestone Potenza Sport. These tires are engineered for drivers seeking performance that can transition from track days to grocery runs without compromise.
Ultra High Performance All-Season Tires
For drivers seeking year-round capability without sacrificing performance, ultra high performance all-season tires attempt the difficult balance of delivering strong 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 simply cannot provide.
Popular choices in this category include the Pirelli P Zero AS Plus 3, Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus, and Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+. These tires are engineered for drivers in moderate climates who want one set of tires capable of handling everything from canyon runs to snow-dusted morning commutes.
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 245mm tire on a 7” wheel will have different fitment characteristics than the same tire on a 9” wheel. See our FT86 Wheel Tire Combo Cheatsheet for some common known tire and wheel spec combos.
Wheel Offset: Lower offsets push the tire outward toward the fender, increasing the likelihood of rubbing. See our wheel fitment guides for offset recommendations.
Suspension Height: Lowered cars have reduced fender-to-tire clearance. What fits on stock suspension may rub when lowered.
Fender Modifications: Stock fenders accommodate approximately 245mm maximum tire width. Wider tires will likely require fender rolling or pulling.
Wheel Well Clearance: With wider tires and aggressive wheel fitments, inner wheel well and suspension component clearance must be verified.
Where to Buy Tires
For purchasing tires, we highly recommend Tire Rack. Their prices often beat my own wholesale costs, and their comprehensive network of recommended installers ensures you have a nearby expert for mounting and balancing. You can also ship directly to your installer for ultimate convenience.
For complete wheel fitment information including offset recommendations, brake clearance considerations, and real-world fitment examples, see our vehicle-specific guides:
Happy motoring!