Michelin XAS Tyres

Michelin XAS Car Tyres

The Michelin XAS represents one of the most important steps forward in tyre development during the 1960s - building on the revolutionary impact of the original Michelin X radial. If the X changed tyre design forever, the XAS was the next great leap. Michelin’s engineers realised that different parts of a tyre perform different roles, so they designed the XAS with an asymmetric construction and tread pattern to reflect this. The result was a tyre with far greater stability, grip, and directional precision — and one of the most distinctive and attractive tread designs ever seen.

Introduced in 1965, the XAS quickly became original equipment on a wide range of European sports cars and saloons. Manufacturers such as Citroën, Peugeot, Renault, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia adopted it for models that demanded predictable handling and highspeed composure. The tyre was particularly associated with the Citroën DS and ID, where its asymmetric design complemented the car’s advanced suspension and long-distance touring ability. Its tall sidewalls, refined carcass, and progressive breakaway characteristics make it ideal for preserving the authentic driving feel of late1960s and 1970s classics.

The XAS range includes twelve sizes, with several offered in FF (Formula France) specification — a softer, grippier compound developed for period motorsport. These FF versions provide enhanced traction and sharper response while retaining the tyre’s classic appearance and profile. The FF tyres are all road legal, so choose these if you want even better grip.

Michelin continues to manufacture the XAS using modern materials and quality control processes while preserving its original design and behaviour. Its asymmetric tread, elegant styling, and faithful construction ensure the correct stance, steering feel, and dynamic balance for classic vehicles.