New 2026 Toyota RAV4 – New Model Overview
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 has arrived in Australia as a major update to the country’s top-selling SUV, introducing a refreshed design, upgraded interior technology, and, most notably, the addition of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants alongside the existing hybrid range.
The lineup expands to include GX, GXL, Edge, XSE, Cruiser, and GR Sport grades, offered across hybrid 2WD/AWD and new PHEV configurations, with the latter delivering significantly higher outputs and up to 100km EV-only range capability.
From a tyre and fitment perspective, the 2026 RAV4 range maintains a clear step-up structure in wheel sizing across the model grades:
- GX – 17-inch alloy wheels
- GXL / Edge – 18-inch alloy wheels
- XSE / Cruiser / GR Sport – 20-inch alloy wheels
From initial press images it would seem like the 17″ fitment is a Goodyear Efficientgrip SUV and the 20″ fitment is a Toyo Proxes Sport. More detailed size and OE brand information to be made available soon.
This progression reflects the positioning of the range, with higher-spec variants adopting larger diameter wheel packages, particularly the XSE, Cruiser and GR Sport, which move to 20-inch fitments as standard.
In their official launch information, Toyota explicitly highlights a “Big Foot” design concept, which is marketing speak for intentionally adding large-diameter tyres to create a more planted SUV stance. This reinforces that the move to 20-inch wheels on upper grades isn’t just spec creep, it’s intentional positioning of the RAV4 as more premium and SUV-like.
Australian Upgraded Mitsubishi Triton Raider 2026
The Premcar-developed Triton Raider, created in partnership with Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Based on the MY2026 Triton GSR dual-cab 4×4, this variant introduces a more off-road-focused OE package tailored to Australian conditions.
From a tyre and wheel perspective, the Raider differentiates itself with a clear shift toward all-terrain capability:
- Wheel size: 18-inch
- Wheel type: ROH ‘Assault’ alloy wheels (unique offset)
- OE tyre fitment: 285/60R18 116T Bridgestone Dueler All-Terrain AT002
- Package highlights: Increased track (+25 mm) and ride height (+25 mm), reinforcing off-road intent
This marks a departure from standard highway-terrain OE fitments typically seen on the Triton range, aligning the Raider more closely with lifestyle and off-road buyer demands. First customer deliveries scheduled for May 2026.
Volkswagen ID.5 GTX
Volkswagen has been selling the ID5 in Australian since April 2025. The ID.5 GTX, a coupe built on the MEB platform and offering over 500km of claimed range. Drive.com.au reported a real-world tested range of around 420–450km for the Volkswagen ID.5 during its Australian review.
OE Fitment (Australia – observed):
- 235/55R19 105T
- Pirelli Scorpion Elect
- Seal Inside technology
- AO = Audi OE Marking
The fitment of Pirelli’s EV-specific Scorpion Elect highlights Volkswagen’s continued focus on low rolling resistance and noise optimisation, while Seal Inside technology adds a layer of puncture protection, an increasingly relevant feature as EVs move toward eliminating spare wheels.
Audi RS5 & RS3 Competition Limited
Pirelli has secured bespoke OE fitments for the latest Audi RS5 and Audi RS3 Competition Limited, supplying tailor-made versions of its flagship P Zero R ultra-high-performance tyre.
Developed in close collaboration with Audi Sport, the P Zero R has been engineered to deliver a balance between road usability and near track-level performance, with a strong emphasis on braking capability and high-speed grip. The compound, co-developed between Pirelli’s Milan HQ and German R&D centre, draws directly from motorsport, enabling strong performance even from cold conditions while maintaining repeatable stopping power under load.
For the plug-in hybrid RS5, Pirelli has developed a reinforced High Load (HL) construction to support the additional mass of electrification, while maintaining the precision expected of RS models.
OE fitments are confirmed as:
Audi RS 5:
Pirelli P Zero R (HL), staggered 21-inch fitment with 285/30R21 on the rear.
Audi RS3 Competition Limited:
- 265/30R19 93Y P Zero Trofeo R (front)
- 245/35R19 93Y P Zero Trofeo R (rear)
On the RS 3 Competition Limited, the P Zero R is offered alongside the more track-focused P Zero Trofeo R, giving customers a choice between road-focused performance and semi-slick capability.
BMW 7 Series (G70) – OE Fitment Update
Hankook has been confirmed as an original equipment supplier for the latest-generation BMW 7 Series (G70), supplying Ventus S1 evo² runflat tyres for select factory wheel packages. This aligns with BMW’s premium touring and performance requirements, incorporating *BMW star-marked (RSC) homologation.
Summer OE Fitment (Hankook Ventus S1 evo² Runflat):
- 245/50R18 100Y *RSC
- 245/45R19 98Y *RSC (front)
- 275/40R19 101Y *RSC (rear)
These sizes correspond with BMW’s 18-inch standard and 19-inch staggered wheel configurations. The 7 Series Sedan is the seventh model by the BMW Group to feature Hankook OE tyres, joining MINI, BMW 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Series, as well as the X1 and X5.
Hankook developed the tyres through its European R&D centre in Germany, with production from its Hungary facility, targeting low noise, high comfort, and balanced high-speed performance in line with flagship luxury sedan expectations.
Porsche 911 Turbo S (2026 Model Update)
Pirelli continues to strengthen its OE partnership with Porsche through the introduction of the new Pirelli P Zero R on the 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S. Developed through close co-engineering, the tyre is tailored specifically to the Turbo S platform, balancing extreme performance with improved efficiency and control.
This latest fitment highlights the ongoing trend within Porsche’s OE strategy, where tyres are engineered as an integral part of the vehicle’s performance package, not simply selected post-development.
Size Overview:
- 325/30ZR21 (Rear)
- 255/35ZR20 (Front)
Kumho Secures OE Fitment on ŠKODA Enyaq and Elroq
Kumho Tire has strengthened its original equipment (OE) portfolio with a new supply agreement for ŠKODA Enyaq and ŠKODA Elroq models. The fitment sees Kumho delivering its ECSTA PS71 SUV in two key sizes, 235/55 R19 and 255/50 R19, reinforcing its position in the growing electric SUV segment.
The ECSTA PS71 SUV sits at the core of Kumho’s high-performance ECSTA lineup, engineered specifically to meet the dynamic requirements of larger, heavier SUVs and EVs. Built on the proven PS71 platform, the SUV variant introduces structural reinforcements and an expanded contact patch to improve braking efficiency and stability.
Polestar 5
Making a strong appearance at the Melbourne Motor Show, the upcoming Polestar 5 showcases a premium high-performance OE package aligned with its $200,000+ positioning in the Australian market.
The vehicle is equipped with a staggered 22-inch setup featuring POL-marked tyres from Michelin, highlighting bespoke development for Polestar’s performance and load requirements:
Front: HL 255/35R22 102Y XL – Pilot Sport 5S
Rear: HL 295/30R22 106Y XL – Pilot Sport 5S
The inclusion of HL (High Load) construction reflects the demands of large, high-performance EVs, where increased vehicle weight and torque require reinforced tyre architecture.
Positioned as a flagship electric performance sedan, the Polestar 5 pairs its advanced drivetrain with Michelin’s latest ultra-high-performance road tyre, designed to balance dynamic handling, high-speed stability, and everyday usability.
At this price point, tyre replacement cost is unlikely to be a primary concern for owners, but we suspect availability may be a problem. At the time of publishing in April 2026, an attempted price check on both Jax Tyres & Auto, Bob Jane T-Marts and Tempe Tyres websites did not list the front or rear tyre fitment.
Hopefully Polestar is running a car dealer program for their customers because explaining to a customer who owns a $200,000+ car that tyres are not available for their car is a very uncomfortable conversation.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Hybrid
The all-new 2026 Cherokee marks a significant shift for Jeep, introducing the brand’s first hybrid powertrain under Stellantis, while retaining the off-road DNA highlighted in the Adventure variant.
From an OE perspective, the key development is NEXEN TIRE securing supply with its ROADIAN GTX, a highway-terrain tyre positioned for SUVs and crossovers.
Confirmed OE Fitment
- 225/60R18 100T – NEXEN ROADIAN GTX
Additional Fitments (Range Overview)
- 225/65R17 – entry-level variants
- 235/55R20 XL – higher-spec trims
The ROADIAN GTX is a highway-terrain SUV tyre developed to meet the demands of modern hybrid vehicles, with a focus on low noise, stable braking performance and extended mileage.
Despite the Adventure variant’s off-road messaging, the OE tyre strategy remains firmly road-biased, which means the car is purely meant to remain an urban tourer or there will be an opportunity for an aftermarket AT variant from another tyre brand.
New Volkswagen T-Roc
Continental has secured original equipment fitment on the Volkswagen T-Roc, supplying its latest generation EcoContact 7 and EcoContact 7 S tyres across the compact SUV range.
The OE program covers 16 to 19-inch fitments, aligning with the T-Roc’s positioning as a high-volume urban SUV where efficiency and comfort remain key priorities.
The EcoContact 7 focuses heavily on energy efficiency, incorporating Continental’s Smart Energy Casing and an advanced low-resistance compound. Updates extend to the tyre’s structure, including optimised carcass materials and an aerodynamically refined sidewall design. A standout feature is the “aerodimple” surface, inspired by golf ball dimples, which reduces air turbulence and contributes to lower rolling resistance.
The energy-focused EcoContact 7 is approved in 16, 17 and 18-inch sizes, while the sportier EcoContact 7 S comes in 16, 17 and 19 inch fitments.
This fitment highlights a continued shift toward efficiency-led OE tyre development, particularly in the compact SUV segment where OEMs are chasing incremental gains in fuel economy and EV range.
It is worth noting that when looking through the press pack available on Volkswagen’s press portal that all the vehicle images shown have Bridgestone as a dominant brand and Kumho. Once the vehicle is released in Australia it will become evident what brand is delivered on their right hand drive summer market vehicles.
