Dunlop Fit Tyres to New Subaru

Subaru has chosen Dunlop for OE supplier to its 2008 Impreza WRX STi. The car will use the tyre maker’s SP Sport 01 in the size 235/45R17 94W.

Frédéric Schilling, brand director of Dunlop Europe, Middle East and Africa was pleased with Subaru’s decision: “Dunlop, with its long motorsport heritage and experience, is the ideal fitment for the Subaru Impreza WRX STI which is built upon a successful rally car heritage. The STI is more than a car, it’s a culture. From the very beginning the Dunlop SP Sport 01 has been developed with leading partners in the automotive industry to comply with the very latest vehicle design and construction. And, last but not least, its development draws on many Dunlop motorsport successes,” he continued.

Equipped with a 221 kW (300 horsepower) 2.5 litre intercooled, turbocharged Subaru Boxer-engine, Dunlop states that the latest Impreza requires tyres with a top performance in all areas. The asymmetrical tread pattern of the tyre is divided into three tread segments. The Longitudinal-Rail-System (two wide central ribs) helps to achieve the efficient transmission of lateral forces, while grooves and notches contribute towards more effective noise reduction. Hydro-Paddles deflect water in imitation of a turbine for a high level of aquaplaning resistance. Finally, the tyre’s Parallelogram-Block-Design works towards eliminating high frequencies, decreasing rolling noise and improving handling performance, for a sporty, confident and silent ride.