Masataka Matsutoya x BRIDGESTONE REGNO GR-XT
CAR / FEATURES
March 12, 2015

Masataka Matsutoya x BRIDGESTONE REGNO GR-XT


Masataka Matsutoya x Bridgestone REGNO GR-XT


Whether listening to music or driving, a certain quality of quiet is essential.


For 40 years, Masataka Matsutoya has been at the forefront of creating cutting-edge sound.
He, also known as a dedicated enthusiast, discusses the relationship between tires and sound.


Photo by Kenichi MuramatsuText by Takeshi SatoGrooming by TOYODirection by Toru Mori @ tsunagaru Inc.





Masataka Matsutoya says, "Choosing tires is like choosing headphones." When selecting headphones, one listens to the same audio source on multiple models for comparison, and tire evaluation is similar. Matsutoya, who enjoys driving the same car for extended periods, ends up fitting several different types of tires to it.

"Changing the tires completely transforms the car's character."

Matsutoya's criteria for evaluating tires are the immediate, linear feedback when turning the steering wheel, grip, and quietness.

"I was astonished when I previously fitted Bridgestone REGNO tires to my Audi S4 at the time; the sound became dramatically softer."


Masataka Matsutoya x Bridgestone REGNO GR-XT 01


Matsutoya, who believes cars are better when quiet, nods in agreement upon hearing that the REGNO GR-XT pursues both quietness and sound quality. It's true, his criteria for choosing headphones included "low noise."




Masataka Matsutoya x Bridgestone REGNO GR-XT 02

Masataka Matsutoya
Music Producer
Born in 1951. As you know, he is active as a music producer, composer, and arranger. He also has a second career as a motor journalist, serving as a juror for the Car of the Year Japan. When asked about a car that recently surprised him, he pointed to the Volvo V60 used for the photoshoot. "The smooth, gliding sensation of its drive felt just like a Jaguar. The ride comfort is exceptional. And the price is far more affordable, isn't it? It's a great value."





Change the tires, Change the rides.
Change the tires, Change the car.



Matsutoya, who holds the conviction that "tires are the most important part of a car," explains: "Generally, people think the star of sushi is the topping. But the sensation of the rice falling apart the moment it enters your mouth is what defines the taste of sushi. Tires are the same. While the car itself is prominent, it's actually the tires that define its character. The REGNO GR-XT, which pursues not only quietness and grip but also a pleasing sound quality, changes the character of your car."



Bridgestone
0120-392936
http://www.regno.jp


Vehicle Cooperation: Volvo Car Japan
Volvo V60 T6 AWD SE ¥5,390,000
Volvo Customer Relations
0120-922-662


Masataka Matsutoya x Bridgestone REGNO GR-XT 03

Tire size lineup: 14 inches to 20 inches, 60 sizes in total / Manufacturer's suggested retail price




Bridgestone From GQ JAPAN August issue