Why MINI has elected Vredestein as its all-season specialist

The iconic British marque has joined forces with the all-season tyre specialist, but why is this partnership a perfect fit for the latest MINI Cooper?

When the latest MINI Cooper rolled out with a set of all-season Vredestein tyres among its standard fitment options for its Cabrio, three- and five-door models, we weren’t surprised.

Why, you ask? Well, first up, this bolsters the partnership between the iconic all-season tyre specialist and the BMW Group, which has already seen Vredestein rubber fit to several of its models, including the X1, X2 and 5 Series.

Tried and tested

It’s a pairing that just makes sense. Vredestein’s decades-deep heritage in innovating and developing tyres that perform in all conditions perfectly complements MINI’s own legacy of spirited yet practical everyday driving, which dates back even further to its Austin and Morris branded models of the ‘50s and ‘60s. 

So, the fact that MINI has selected the Vredestein Quatrac Pro is more than a new chapter in their collaboration; it’s a testament to the tyre's — and the brand’s — firmly established reputation. 

However, there is more than just history here. Fast forward to present day, and this is now an entirely modern affair. As an acclaimed ultra-high-performance all-season tyre, the advanced Quatrac Pro brings top-notch handling and impressive braking distances no matter what the UK’s weather throws at it — allowing the iconic British(ish) car to thrive, all year-round.

Time to get technical

So what is the secret behind a tyre capable of enhancing the MINI’s renowned cornering abilities, precise steering, and secure braking beyond the warmer months?

In a word: technology. Using an advanced tread compound, rich in silica and resin, the Quatrac Pro maintains its impressive performance in wet and cool environments. Combine this with wider and diverging grooves within the pattern to assist with water evacuation, and Vredestein’s all-season rubber unlocks more than a 10% increase in wet grip over its predecessor. And should it snow, fear not; some clever pressure distribution across the central sipes has contributed to a 5% snow handling improvement too.

The tyre's development towards high-performance vehicles means it's built to handle the demands of agile cars like the MINI Cooper, delivering that ideal responsive handling and grip which enthusiasts expect — whether navigating unexpected downpours, snow sprinkled roads, or sun-baked tarmac. 

But don’t just take our word for it. With a DriverReviews’ best all-season tyre category commendation and an Auto Bild all-season tyre test winner’s award sat within its trophy cabinet, this is a tyre which has already proven itself.

The shifting tides of tyre choice

Now, there’s a second reason why this is big news, and it goes beyond even this lofty partnership. 

With the Quatrac Pro, MINI’s meeting the evolving needs of drivers and recognising the growing appeal of all-season tyres. It’s not just MINI noticing this shift: a recent survey revealed that almost two-thirds of UK motorists would consider all-season rubber as their next tyre. This reflects a broader shift in consumer preference, with drivers increasingly seeking versatile solutions that can provide reliable performance across a spectrum of weather conditions. And, of course, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro sits at the forefront of this movement, offering a compelling solution for drivers who want to maximise their time on the road, year-round.

So, as the latest MINI Cooper hits the streets, equipped with the Vredestein Quatrac Pro, it's clear that this pairing is a natural fit, driven by a shared commitment to performance, quality, and a truly engaging driving experience. It just makes sense.

But what are your thoughts on all-season tyres? Would you consider them for your next tyre change?

Hero Image credit: Apollo Vredestein