Yokohama ADVAN Sport V107 Selected as OE for Updated Mazda MX-5
Yokohama Rubber has continued one of its longest-running Mazda relationships, with the ADVAN Sport V107 selected as original equipment for the latest update to the Mazda MX-5.
The updated two-seat roadster went on sale in Japan and Europe in June 2026, fitted with 195/50R16 84V Yokohama ADVAN Sport V107 tyres. Yokohama says it has supplied original-equipment tyres for the MX-5 continuously since the first generation of the sports car.
The 195/50R16 fitment is an interesting choice in its own right. In a market where 17- and 18-inch wheels have become commonplace even on relatively modest performance-oriented cars, a 16-inch tyre can appear unusually small for something carrying a sports car or roadster badge.
But the MX-5 has always occupied a slightly different space. It is arguably as much a lightweight, two-door fun car as it is a conventional sports roadster, with its appeal built around balance, steering response and accessibility that allow the driver to enjoy the chassis without needing enormous tyres or outright speed.
Kumho Crugen HT51 Selected as OE Fitment for Kia Tasman
Kumho Tire has been selected as an original equipment tyre supplier for the Kia Tasman, with the Crugen HT51 approved for the manufacturer’s first pickup truck.
The all-season highway-terrain tyre will be fitted to Tasman models supplied across several key markets, including Australia, South Korea, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
The OE fitment is sized 265/60R18. Kumho’s selection indicates that Kia has prioritised a highway-terrain tyre with a balance of refinement and light off-road capability, rather than a more aggressive all-terrain pattern.
In Australia, however, the Crugen HT51 may have limited visibility beyond the Tasman’s original factory fitment. TreadTorque expects many owners, particularly those planning off-road travel or wanting a more rugged appearance, will replace the original wheels and tyres with an aftermarket wheel and all-terrain tyre package, some opting for 17 inch fitments for more sidewall, however the 18 inch fitment is equally as capable off-road. This is common in the local ute market, although owners who primarily drive on sealed roads may prefer to retain the quieter and more road-focused characteristics of the OE fitment.
Yokohama ADVAN dB V552 Selected as Original Equipment for New MG7
The MG7 has been available to order in Australia since December 2025, which means this fitment announcement by Yokohama would represent a fitment win to the 2026 model-year update, giving customers another aftermarket “OE approval” to choose from.
The updated model retains the existing fastback design and turbocharged powertrain but gains enhanced cockpit and driver-assistance technology. Tyre size usually remains unchanged in model updates or “facelifts” as the platform has not been updated by the engineers.
The approved fitment is:
245/40R19 98W
The ADVAN dB V552 sits within Yokohama’s flagship ADVAN range but places greater emphasis on refinement than the brand’s more overtly performance-focused products.
According to Yokohama Rubber, the premium comfort tyre has been engineered to combine low road noise with wet grip, fuel efficiency, ride comfort and handling stability.
This balance suits the positioning of the MG7, which combines fastback styling and sporting features with the comfort and technology expected from a mid-size sedan. The Chinese-market update introduces a three-stage electric rear wing and quad exhaust outlets across the range, together with upgrades to the vehicle’s smart cockpit and other electronic systems.
Continental EcoContact 7 Gains OE Approval for Škoda Elroq
Continental’s EcoContact 7 has secured original equipment approval for the all-electric Škoda Elroq, with a staggered 20-inch fitment selected for the compact electric SUV in numerous international markets.
The approved fitment uses 235/50 R20 100H tyres on the front axle and wider 255/45 R20 101H tyres at the rear. Both sizes carry Continental’s FR marking, identifying an integrated rim-protection rib designed to help protect the wheel if the tyre contacts a kerb.
The official press release photos show Bridgestone fitment across most of the images, which means the Continental fitment could represent only a share of the production line.
Continental developed the EcoContact 7 as a tyre focused on low rolling resistance, extended mileage and reduced rolling noise.
Its compound and construction are designed to reduce the energy required to keep the tyre moving. This is particularly relevant for electric vehicles, where lower rolling resistance can contribute to reduced energy consumption and help preserve driving range.
Reduced tyre noise is another important consideration for electric vehicles. Without the sound of an internal-combustion engine masking other frequencies, tyre and wind noise can become more noticeable inside the cabin.
Continental says the spacing and angles of the EcoContact 7’s tread blocks have been optimised to reduce rolling noise. The pattern is also designed around frequencies commonly generated during low-speed urban driving.
In Australia, the Elroq range currently includes the Select 60 and Select 85, with advertised driveaway pricing beginning at $49,990 and $59,990 respectively. Škoda Australia lists a 470-litre luggage compartment, expanding to 1,580 litres with the rear seats folded, and a drag coefficient as low as 0.26.
The Australian Elroq 85 Select uses a 77kWh usable battery, produces 210kW and has a claimed WLTP combined range of 529km. It is rear-wheel drive and can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in a claimed 6.6 seconds.
Continental EcoContact 7 Selected for New Volkswagen ID. Polo
Continental has secured an original equipment approval for Volkswagen’s new all-electric ID. Polo, adding another compact electric vehicle to the growing OE portfolio of the EcoContact 7.
Volkswagen has approved the Continental EcoContact 7 in two sizes for the ID. Polo:
- 215/55 R17 94T FR
- 215/50 R18 92T FR
The approval follows the announcement earlier this year that Bridgestone will supply a bespoke Potenza Sport for the higher-performance ID. Polo GTI, giving the two closely related models distinctly different tyre packages aligned with their respective roles.
Continental’s approval extends beyond the summer EcoContact 7.
Volkswagen has also approved Continental’s AllSeasonContact 2 and WinterContact TS 870 P in 215/50 R18 96T XL for the ID. Polo in applicable international markets.
For Australia, however, the summer EcoContact 7 is the more relevant product. All-season and dedicated winter tyres remain considerably more specialised products locally than they are in European markets.
