Tires are the only part of a car touching the road, so they have a huge effect on noise and ride comfort. Taller sidewalls absorb bumps better than low-profile tires; foam-lined “acoustic” tires reduce the hollow drumming noise inside the tire; and correct tire pressure keeps the ride supple and safe. Luxury manufacturers develop tires specifically for their cars — Rolls-Royce, for example, uses tires with sound-absorbing foam inside — because road noise is one of the last remaining sources of cabin sound.

What affects tire noise and comfort

Factor Effect
Sidewall height Taller sidewalls cushion bumps; low profiles transmit more
Tread pattern Designs are tuned to reduce whine and hum
Rubber compound Softer compounds can be quieter
Foam liner Absorbs cavity resonance (“drumming”)
Tire pressure Over-inflation harshens ride; under-inflation is unsafe
Wheel size Larger wheels usually mean lower-profile tires

Acoustic tires

A layer of polyurethane foam bonded inside the tire absorbs the resonance of air in the tire cavity. Several tire makers offer such technology, and many luxury cars and EVs use it as standard. It’s especially important in EVs, where there’s no engine noise to mask road noise. Read active noise cancellation.

Big wheels vs comfort

Large wheels look dramatic but usually require low-profile tires with less cushioning. For chauffeured comfort, moderate wheel sizes and taller sidewalls often ride better — especially on pothole-prone city streets.

Winter tires

Winter tires use softer rubber and deeper, siped treads for grip in cold, snow and ice. They may be slightly noisier than all-season tires but greatly improve safety. Read AWD vs 4WD.

Maintenance

Fleets check tire pressure frequently, rotate tires and replace them before they wear too far. Worn tires are noisier and less safe in rain. Read how chauffeured fleets are maintained.