The 2022 Audi S8 sits at the high-performance end of Audi’s full-size luxury sedan lineup, blending understated executive styling with serious speed and all-weather capability. Buyers looking at this car usually want to preserve that balance of precision, comfort, and visual presence rather than treating tires as an afterthought. For this exact model, the key fitment question starts with two primary radial sizes, 265/35R21 and 265/40R20, tied to different wheel diameters. That means the decision is less about old bias-ply versus radial construction and more about confirming the wheel setup already on the car, then choosing the right tire within the correct size for appearance, handling priorities, and proper fitment.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2022 Audi S8
The 2022 Audi S8 uses two primary tire sizes, both in radial construction, and the first thing to confirm is whether the car is fitted with 20-inch or 21-inch wheels. Because the same Base sub-model appears with both sizes, tire selection starts with wheel diameter rather than trim level, then moves to choosing the right tire within that exact metric size.
A 265/35R21 tire uses a 265-millimeter nominal section width, a 35-series aspect ratio, radial construction, and a 21-inch rim diameter. On the 2022 Audi S8, this size represents one of the low-profile modern metric radial fitments suited to the car’s performance-luxury character. The shorter sidewall gives this size a distinctly contemporary look and makes wheel confirmation especially important before replacement. This is the size to evaluate when the car already carries 21-inch wheels and you want to stay with the correct sizing format and overall fitment relationship for that setup.
A 265/40R20 tire keeps the same 265-millimeter nominal section width but uses a 40-series aspect ratio on a 20-inch rim. For the 2022 Audi S8, it serves as the alternate primary radial fitment and corresponds to a different wheel diameter rather than a simple variation within the same wheel package. Its slightly taller sidewall profile relative to the 21-inch size makes wheel identification essential before comparing tire choices. This is the correct size to pursue when the car is equipped with 20-inch wheels and the goal is to maintain the intended size class for that configuration.
Sub-model fitment is straightforward here because the 2022 Audi S8 Base is the covered configuration, but tire selection still is not a one-size decision. The important check is wheel diameter, since the same sub-model appears with both 20-inch and 21-inch radial tire sizes.
1
2022 Audi S8 Base
The 2022 Audi S8 Base uses either 265/35R21 or 265/40R20, and both are modern radial fitments tied to different wheel diameters. Tire selection for this sub-model starts by confirming which wheel package is on the car, then matching the replacement tire to that exact size rather than choosing by model name alone.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tire questions for the 2022 Audi S8 usually come down to identifying the correct wheel diameter first, then choosing between its two modern metric radial sizes. The FAQs below focus on fitment, rim compatibility, tire selection, and the inspection checks that matter before road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2022 Audi S8?
The 2022 Audi S8 uses two tire sizes: 265/35R21 and 265/40R20. Both are radial metric fitments, and both apply to the S8 Base depending on which wheel diameter is on the car.
That makes wheel confirmation the first step before shopping for replacements. Since these sizes use different rim diameters, the correct choice is not based on the model name alone. Check the tire sidewall already on the car, verify whether it has 20-inch or 21-inch wheels, and match the replacement tire to that exact size before comparing brands or tread designs.
What size rim does a 2022 Audi S8 use?
A 2022 Audi S8 uses either a 20-inch or 21-inch rim, depending on the tire size fitted to the car. The 265/40R20 tire matches a 20-inch rim, while the 265/35R21 tire matches a 21-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the key fitment checkpoint on this model because both tire sizes appear on the same S8 Base configuration. A 20-inch tire cannot be mounted on a 21-inch wheel, and the reverse is also true. Before replacing tires, confirm the actual wheel diameter on the car and make sure any previous owner wheel change has not altered the original setup.
Why does the 2022 Audi S8 have more than one tire size?
The 2022 Audi S8 has more than one tire size because it appears with two different wheel diameters: 265/40R20 on a 20-inch rim and 265/35R21 on a 21-inch rim. Both are primary radial fitments for the model.
In practical terms, that means the car may have been delivered or equipped with different wheel packages while remaining the same S8 Base model. The correct replacement tire depends on the wheels currently installed, not just the year and model. Checking the tire sidewall and the wheel itself prevents ordering the wrong diameter and helps keep the fitment aligned with the car’s existing setup.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 265/35R21 tire for a 2022 Audi S8?
Start with the basics: confirm that the car actually uses 265/35R21 and that it still has 21-inch wheels. This size is a low-profile metric radial, so matching the exact size is important to preserve the intended fitment relationship on the 2022 Audi S8.
After size confirmation, compare the tire’s intended use, ride character, and any dimensional details that matter for the car’s wheel and clearance setup. A performance sedan like the S8 benefits from staying within the proper size rather than improvising. It also helps to inspect whether the car has aftermarket wheels, alignment changes, or suspension modifications that could affect replacement tire choice.
What should I consider when choosing a 265/40R20 tire for a 2022 Audi S8?
A 265/40R20 tire is one of the correct primary sizes for the 2022 Audi S8, but it should only be selected for cars equipped with 20-inch wheels. The size carries a modern radial format with the same nominal width as the 21-inch option, paired to a different sidewall profile and rim diameter.
Once the wheel diameter is confirmed, look at how the tire suits the way the car is driven and whether the current wheel setup is still original. Comparing overall fitment details, tire construction consistency, and the condition of the wheels themselves can prevent mismatch problems. This is especially useful on cars that may have had wheel changes, previous tire substitutions, or suspension alterations.
How do I choose between the available tire sizes for a 2022 Audi S8?
The choice between 265/35R21 and 265/40R20 is determined by the wheel diameter already on the car. A 2022 Audi S8 with 21-inch wheels uses 265/35R21, while a car with 20-inch wheels uses 265/40R20.
This is not a matter of selecting whichever size sounds closer or more appealing. Each tire is designed around a different rim diameter, so the decision begins with the hardware on the car. Reading the current tire sidewall, measuring the wheel if needed, and confirming that the setup has not been changed by a previous owner are the smartest steps before comparing tire options.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2022 Audi S8 restoration or preservation project?
Yes. Even on a newer collector candidate like the 2022 Audi S8, correct tire fitment matters because wheel diameter, sidewall profile, and overall tire presentation affect how the car sits and drives. Using the proper 265/35R21 or 265/40R20 size helps preserve the intended visual balance of the S8.
Preservation-minded owners should confirm which wheel package belongs on their specific car before replacing tires. Matching the existing fitment is usually the cleanest path when the goal is to maintain an authentic appearance. If exact as-delivered configuration matters, compare the current wheel and tire setup with the car’s original paperwork or marque-specific reference material before making changes.
How does tire profile affect the appearance of a 2022 Audi S8?
Tire profile changes the visual relationship between the wheel and sidewall, and that is easy to notice on a 2022 Audi S8. The 265/35R21 fitment has a lower-profile look around a larger wheel, while 265/40R20 carries a slightly taller sidewall on a smaller diameter rim.
That difference does not make one size universally better, but it does change the car’s visual stance. Owners who want to preserve the look of the existing setup should replace the tire with the same size already fitted to the car. Switching wheel diameters means more than changing tires, so wheel clearance and overall setup should be reviewed before any conversion.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2022 Audi S8?
Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2022 Audi S8, especially if the car has aftermarket wheels, altered offsets, suspension changes, or a lowered ride height. Even when staying with 265/35R21 or 265/40R20, those changes can influence clearance and how the tire sits within the wheel opening.
A modified car should be checked more carefully than one with a stock wheel and suspension setup. Look at inner and outer clearance, steering travel, and any signs of rubbing before mounting replacement tires. It also helps to confirm the actual wheel diameter and width on the car, since a previous owner may have changed more than the tires alone.
What should I inspect before driving a 2022 Audi S8 on new tires?
Before driving a 2022 Audi S8 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the tires match the car’s actual 20-inch or 21-inch setup, and check inflation pressure once the tires are mounted. A quick visual check for bead seating, valve condition, and any obvious interference is also worthwhile.
After installation, pay attention to steering feel, vibration, and clearance during low-speed turns before moving into normal driving. A vehicle with recent wheel changes, alignment work, or suspension modifications deserves an extra look. Collector-minded owners should also make tire inspections part of routine maintenance, since even low-mileage cars can develop age-related tire issues over time.
How often should tires on a 2022 Audi S8 be inspected?
Tires on a 2022 Audi S8 should be inspected regularly, not just when tread wear becomes obvious. Check them before longer drives and during routine maintenance for uneven wear, cuts, bulges, embedded debris, and gradual air loss, especially since this model uses low-profile performance-oriented tire sizes.
Frequent inspection matters because issues can develop from road impacts, storage time, alignment changes, or simple underinflation. Looking over the sidewalls and tread every few weeks is a sensible habit, and any vibration or pull should be investigated promptly. Cars that are driven infrequently still need tire attention, since age and environmental exposure can affect condition even without high mileage.
