Nitto NT555 G2 Ultra‑High Performance Summer Tire
Built for warm weather, the Nitto NT555 G2 delivers quick turn-in, confident dry traction, and dependable wet braking thanks to a directional tread and high-grip compound. Large, stable shoulder blocks boost cornering stability, while circumferential channels move water to help reduce hydroplaning. Drivers get crisp steering feel with everyday drivability, so the NT555 G2 balances grip, feedback, and value. Do not use in near or below freezing temperatures, snow, or ice.
Key Features and Benefits
The NT555 G2 is tuned for predictable, confidence-inspiring performance. A directional tread with wide circumferential grooves evacuates water for control on wet roads. Rigid, tapered tread blocks and reinforced shoulders provide planted dry grip and stable braking, while a silica-enhanced summer compound maintains traction in warm temperatures and manages heat during spirited driving. Optimized pattern stiffness helps promote even wear when alignment and rotation are on schedule, so steering stays sharp and straight-line stability remains solid.
On‑Road Performance: Dry, Wet, and Daily Driving
In the dry, the NT555 G2's firm blocks and supportive shoulders deliver precise turn-in, confident cornering, and dependable braking. On wet pavement, its directional pattern and full-depth channels clear water to maintain contact and stability. Day to day, the ride feels sporty yet livable, with road noise kept in check for this class. As a summer tire, it performs best in warm climates, so keep pressures set correctly and alignment in spec to preserve grip and wear.
Speed Rating and Everyday Use
Many NT555 G2 sizes carry high speed ratings suitable for modern performance cars. Verify the exact rating on your sidewall and match or exceed your vehicle's OE spec. Summer compounds work best in warm weather, so expect peak grip and braking once the tire is at operating temperature, and avoid cold starts near or below freezing. Check pressures monthly and rotate every 5-7k miles to help maintain balanced wear and consistent handling.
Sizes and Fitment Guidance
The NT555 G2 comes in a broad range of performance sizes across 17 to 20 inch wheel diameters for sport coupes, sedans, and tuner builds. To choose correctly, match your OE size, load index, and speed rating from the driver-door placard or owner's manual. If you are upsizing, keep overall diameter and load capacity within safe limits, and confirm wheel width and fender clearance. Staggered setups are common on rear-drive cars, but verify front and rear load and speed requirements independently.
Popular Sizes & Fitment Notes
Popular choices include 275/40R20, 255/35R20, and 235/40R18 for modern performance cars. For a size like 275/40R20, confirm wheel width compatibility and fender clearance, especially on lowered cars or those with aggressive offsets. Staggered applications can improve traction and stance, but keep rolling diameter in range to preserve stability control and gearing. Always match or exceed the OE load index and speed rating on your door-jamb label, and consider a professional fitment check if you are moving away from stock sizing.
Price and Value
The NT555 G2 delivers precise steering, stable cornering, and reliable wet braking at a strong price for the summer UHP segment. Final cost varies by size, speed rating, and availability. Watch for seasonal promotions, instant savings, and bundled install packages to lower total ownership cost. Choose the correct size and load rating and keep alignment and rotations on schedule to protect your investment over the life of the tire.
Treadwear, Warranty, and Maintenance
Tread life on any summer UHP tire depends heavily on driving style, alignment, and rotation habits. Aggressive cornering and high heat can accelerate wear, while proper inflation and regular rotations help even it out. Coverage typically centers on workmanship and materials, and many summer performance sizes do not carry a mileage warranty. Rotate every 5-7k miles, maintain OE pressures, and correct alignment promptly if you notice uneven shoulders or vibration.
NT555 G2 vs NT555 R2
The NT555 G2 is a summer street tire built for balanced daily performance, with sharp steering, dependable dry grip, and credible wet braking. The NT555 R2 is a drag-focused tire engineered for straight-line traction, with tradeoffs in wet performance, treadwear, and daily drivability. For spirited street use and commuting, the G2 is the versatile choice. If maximum launch grip for dedicated drag use is the priority, consider the R2 and always choose based on your primary use, weather, and safety needs.
