McLaren GT Tire Guide
The McLaren GT represents a departure from McLaren's typical track-focused ethos. Designed as a grand tourer first and a supercar second, the GT features a more compliant suspension, a usable front trunk, and a rear luggage area beneath its glass hatch. With 612 horsepower from its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and a more comfort-oriented chassis setup, the GT needs tires that prioritize refinement without abandoning the performance that defines every McLaren.
OEM Tire Specifications
The McLaren GT uses 225/35ZR20 tires on the front and 295/30ZR21 tires on the rear. Like the 720S, it uses mixed-diameter wheels — 20-inch front and 21-inch rear — which means tire rotation is not possible. McLaren equipped the GT with Pirelli P Zero tires engineered specifically for the car's grand touring character, with a focus on comfort and noise reduction rather than maximum track grip.
Best Replacement Tires for Touring
The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 is the natural replacement for the OEM tire and maintains the GT's intended character. Look for versions with Pirelli's PNCS noise-canceling foam technology if cabin quietness is a priority for you. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is another excellent choice that balances strong performance with the ride quality appropriate for long-distance driving.
Sportier Alternatives
If you want to unlock a bit more of the GT's hidden performance potential, the Continental SportContact 7 offers a sharper, more responsive feel without becoming harsh. For occasional track days, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 is available in the correct sizes and provides dramatically more grip, though ride comfort and noise levels will increase noticeably.
Long-Distance Driving Considerations
The McLaren GT was designed for exactly the kind of driving that accelerates tire wear — sustained high-speed cruising on highways and motorways. At sustained speeds above 100 mph, tires generate significantly more heat than in typical city driving. If you regularly drive at high speeds, consider checking your tires more frequently for signs of heat-related degradation, including cracking in the tread grooves or sidewall discoloration.
The Front Trunk Factor
One unique aspect of the McLaren GT is its front luggage compartment. When loaded for a road trip, the added weight over the front axle changes the car's weight distribution and puts additional stress on the front tires. While this is well within the tires' design parameters, it is worth noting that heavily loaded front tires may wear slightly faster during extended touring use.
Tire Storage for Seasonal Owners
Many GT owners store the car during winter months. If you remove the wheels and tires for storage, store them in a cool, dry, dark location away from electric motors and ozone-producing equipment. Stack tires flat rather than standing them upright, and if possible, store them in tire bags to prevent rubber degradation from UV exposure and atmospheric ozone.
Pricing at Ship.Tires
McLaren GT tires typically range from $350 to $550 each, with a full set costing between $1,400 and $2,200. Because the front and rear tires are different sizes, rears will generally need replacement first due to the rear-wheel-drive layout. Ship.Tires stocks all McLaren GT fitments and can help you choose the right tire for your driving priorities.