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2021 Tyre Reviews SUV Tyre Test

Jonathan Benson
Tested and written by Jonathan Benson
7 min read Updated
Contents
  1. Introduction
  2. Testing Methodology
    1. Categories Tested
  3. Dry
  4. Wet
  5. Off Road
  6. Environment
  7. Results
  8. Michelin Primacy 4
  9. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
  10. Uniroyal RainSport 5
  11. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
  12. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
  13. Nokian Wetproof SUV
  14. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
  15. Avon ZX7
  16. Westlake SU318 HT

2021 Tyre Reviews SUV Tyre Test

Testing Methodology

Test Driver
Jonathan Benson
Tyre Size
235/55 R18
Test Location
Professional Proving Ground
Test Year
2021
Tyres Tested
9
Show full testing methodology Hide methodology

Every tyre is tested using calibrated instrumented measurement and structured subjective assessment. Reference tyres are retested throughout each session to correct for changing conditions, ensuring fair, repeatable comparisons. Multiple reference sets are used where needed so that control tyre wear does not affect accuracy.

We use professional-grade testing equipment including GPS data loggers, accelerometers, and calibrated microphones. All tyres are broken in and conditioned before testing begins. For full details on our equipment, preparation process, and calibration procedures, see our complete testing methodology.

Categories Tested

Dry Braking

For dry braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 110 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on clean, dry asphalt. I typically use an 100–5 km/h measurement window. My standard programme is five runs per tyre set where possible, although the sequence can extend to as many as fifteen runs if conditions and tyre category justify it. I analyse the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. Reference tyres are run repeatedly throughout the session to correct for changing conditions.

Dry Handling

For dry handling, I drive at the limit of adhesion around a dedicated handling circuit with ESC disabled where possible so I can assess the tyre's natural balance, transient response, and limit behaviour without electronic intervention masking the result. I usually complete between two and five timed laps per tyre set, depending on the circuit, tyre type, and consistency of conditions. I exclude laps affected by clear driver error or obvious environmental inconsistency. Control runs are carried out frequently throughout the session, and I often use multiple sets of control tyres so that wear on the references does not become a meaningful variable. For more track-focused products, I also do endurance testing, which is a set number of laps at race pace to determine tire wear patterns and heat resistance over longer driving.

Subj. Dry Handling

Objective data is only part of the picture, so I also carry out a structured subjective handling assessment at the limit of adhesion on a dedicated dry handling circuit. I score steering precision, steering response, turn-in behaviour, mid-corner balance, corner-exit traction, breakaway characteristics, and overall confidence using a standardised 1–10 scale used consistently across my testing. The final assessment combines numeric scoring with written technical commentary. I complete familiarisation laps on the control tyre before evaluating each candidate.

Wet Braking

For wet braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 88 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on an asphalt surface with a controlled water film. I typically use an 80–5 km/h measurement window to isolate tyre performance from variability in the initial brake application. My standard programme is eight runs per tyre set where possible, although the sequence can extend to as many as fifteen runs if conditions and tyre category justify it. I analyse the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. To correct for changing conditions, I run reference tyres repeatedly throughout the session — in wet testing, typically every three candidate test sets.

Wet Handling

For wet handling, I drive at the limit of adhesion around a dedicated handling circuit. I generally use specialist wet circuits with kerb-watering systems designed to maintain a consistent surface condition. ESC is disabled where possible so I can assess the tyre's natural balance, transient response, and limit behaviour without electronic intervention masking the result. I usually complete between two and five timed laps per tyre set, depending on the circuit, tyre type, and consistency of conditions. I exclude laps affected by clear driver error or obvious environmental inconsistency. Control runs are carried out frequently throughout the session, and I often use multiple sets of control tyres so that wear on the references does not become a meaningful variable.

Subj. Wet Handling

Objective data is only part of the picture, so I also carry out a structured subjective handling assessment at the limit of adhesion on a dedicated wet handling circuit. I score steering precision, steering response, turn-in behaviour, mid-corner balance, aquaplaning resistance, breakaway characteristics, and overall confidence using a standardised 1–10 scale used consistently across my testing. The final assessment combines numeric scoring with written technical commentary. I complete familiarisation laps on the control tyre before evaluating each candidate.

Straight Aqua

To measure straight-line aquaplaning resistance, I drive one side of the vehicle through a water trough of controlled depth, typically around 7 mm, while the opposite side remains on dry pavement. I enter at a fixed speed and then accelerate progressively. I define aquaplaning onset as the point at which the wheel travelling through the water exceeds a specified slip threshold relative to the dry-side reference wheel. I usually perform four runs per tyre set and average the valid results.

Curved Aquaplaning

For curved aquaplaning, I use a circular track, typically around 100 metres in diameter, with a flooded arc of controlled water depth, usually about 7 mm. The vehicle is instrumented with GPS telemetry and a tri-axial accelerometer. I drive through the flooded section at progressively increasing speed, typically in 5 km/h increments, and record the minimum sustained lateral acceleration at each step. The test continues until lateral acceleration collapses, indicating complete aquaplaning. The result is expressed as remaining lateral acceleration in m/s² as speed rises.

Gravel Traction

For gravel traction, I accelerate the vehicle from rest on a prepared gravel surface with traction control active and measure speed and distance using GPS telemetry. Because natural surfaces are inherently variable, I place particular emphasis on repeat runs, careful reference tracking, and averaged results. Results are normalised against the control tyre.

Grass Traction

For grass traction, I accelerate the vehicle from rest on a prepared grass surface with traction control active and measure speed and distance using GPS telemetry. Because natural surfaces are inherently variable, I place particular emphasis on repeat runs, careful reference tracking, and averaged results. The surface is prepared to a defined and repeatable condition as far as practical before testing begins.

Subj. Comfort

To assess comfort, I drive on a wide range of road surfaces (often dedicated comfort tracks at test facilities) at speeds from 50 to 120 km/h, including smooth motorway, coarse surfaces, expansion joints, broken pavement, and sharp-edged obstacles. I evaluate primary ride quality, secondary ride quality, impact harshness, seat-transmitted vibration, and the tyre's ability to absorb sharp inputs. Ratings are assigned on a 1–10 scale relative to the reference tyre.

Noise

I measure external pass-by noise in accordance with UNECE Regulation 117 and ISO 13325 using the coast-by method on a compliant test surface. Calibrated microphones are positioned beside the test lane, and the vehicle coasts through the measurement zone under controlled conditions. I record the maximum A-weighted sound pressure level in dB(A), complete multiple runs over the relevant speed range, and normalise the result to the reference speed required by the procedure.

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance is measured under controlled laboratory conditions in accordance with ISO 28580 and UNECE Regulation 117 Annex 6. The tyre is mounted on a test wheel and loaded against a large-diameter steel drum. After thermal stabilisation at the prescribed test speed, rolling resistance force is measured at the spindle and corrected according to the relevant procedure. The result is expressed as rolling resistance coefficient, typically in kg/tonne.

Standards: UNECE Regulation 117 ISO 13325 ISO 28580 UNECE Regulation 117 Annex 6
Score Weighting Hide Score Weighting

How each category is weighted in the overall score:

Dry 35%
Dry Braking 60%
Dry Handling 30%
Subj. Dry Handling 5%
Wet 40%
Wet Braking 50%
Wet Handling 30%
Straight Aqua 8%
Curved Aquaplaning 8%
Off road 8%
Gravel Traction 50%
Grass Traction 50%
Comfort 10%
Subj. Comfort 25%
Noise 75%
Value 8%
Rolling Resistance 100%
It's the first Tyre Reviews SUV tyre test, and as usual, we're trying to do things as properly as possible!

We have 8 of the most popular SUV tyres in 235/55 R18, including the Michelin Primacy 4, the brand new Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV, the extremely popular Uniroyal RainSport 5, the new Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 SUV, the Nokian WetProof SUV, the Vredestein Ultrac Satin, the Avon ZX7, the BFGoodrich Advantage SUV, and a budget tyre represented by Westlake.

As tyres like these aren't intended for serious off-road use, we'll be using a VW Tiguan and focusing on the dry, wet and comfort characteristics of the tyres, AND thanks to Goodyear allowing us to use their awesome off-road test facility in Texas, we'll also look at some of the basic off-road performances such as damp grass and gravel, meaning you'll have a complete picture of what SUV tyre is best at what, allowing you to make the ideal purchase choice for your own particular needs.

Vehicles which this size applies to are SUV and Crossover SUVs such as the BMW X3, BMW X5, Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 / XC60, Audi A8, Citroen C4 Aircross, VW Tiguan, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mercedes Benz EQA, GLA, S Class, Nissan Qashqai and many more.

Let's start with the dry and wet performance of the nine sets of SUV tyres.

Dry

Dry braking was led by the Michelin Primacy 4, having an impressive lead over the rest of the group. BFGoodrich, Goodyear and Hankook were also good performers, while the budget Westlake had a big deficit to the rest of the group.

Dry Braking

Spread: 5.77 M (17.1%)|Avg: 35.56 M
Dry braking in meters (100 - 1 km/h) (Lower is better)
Dry Braking: Safety Impact: Best vs Worst Tyre

Handling tests might not be the most important criteria for an SUV, but they do still show us the peak lateral grip of the tyres, how safe they will be in emergency maneuvers, and if you're really keen, just how quickly you can get your child to school on a wet or dry morning.

The VW Tiguan is set up for understeer, and in the dry, that's what we got from all the tyres, just to different degrees, with the slowest tyres also being those with the most understeer.

Avon, Hankook and Goodyear were the nicest tyres to drive quickly, having relatively good steering response and balance. Again, the budget tyre was the slowest, and the BFGoodrich and Uniroyal had a slow steering reaction and a heavy understeer balance.

Dry Handling

Spread: 2.17 s (2.1%)|Avg: 104.63 s
Dry handling time in seconds (Lower is better)
  1. Avon ZX7
    103.54 s
  2. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    103.54 s
  3. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    104.06 s
  4. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    104.37 s
  5. Michelin Primacy 4
    104.80 s
  6. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    104.96 s
  7. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    105.33 s
  8. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    105.39 s
  9. Westlake SU318 HT
    105.71 s

Wet

The wet braking testing had the Uniroyal Rainsport 5 move to the front, narrowly beating the Michelin Primacy 4. Like in the dry, the Goodyear and Hankook were the best of the rest, with the budget tyre performing extremely poorly, with the Tiguan still travelling around 40 km/h at the point the Uniroyal had stopped the SUV.

Wet Braking

Spread: 12.03 M (34%)|Avg: 38.68 M
Wet braking in meters (80 - 1 km/h) (Lower is better)
Wet Braking: Safety Impact: Best vs Worst Tyre

The Uniroyal continued its impressive run in the wet by being the fastest over the wet handling, beating the Goodyear and Hankook.

The Michelin Primacy 4 had trouble with the deeper parts of the wet handling lap, costing the tyre important time.

Wet Handling

Spread: 3.11 s (4.5%)|Avg: 69.92 s
Wet handling time in seconds (Lower is better)
  1. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    68.98 s
  2. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    69.22 s
  3. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    69.36 s
  4. Avon ZX7
    69.39 s
  5. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    69.71 s
  6. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    69.75 s
  7. Michelin Primacy 4
    69.82 s
  8. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    70.98 s
  9. Westlake SU318 HT
    72.09 s

The aquaplaning tests highlighted both the Uniroyal's excellent ability in standing water, and the difficulties the Michelin had on the wet handling lap.

Straight Aqua

Spread: 13.66 Km/H (15.4%)|Avg: 81.66 Km/H
Float Speed in Km/H (Higher is better)
  1. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    88.97 Km/H
  2. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    85.97 Km/H
  3. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    84.04 Km/H
  4. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    83.70 Km/H
  5. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    81.60 Km/H
  6. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    81.47 Km/H
  7. Avon ZX7
    78.33 Km/H
  8. Westlake SU318 HT
    75.57 Km/H
  9. Michelin Primacy 4
    75.31 Km/H

The Vredestein Ultrac Satin also performed well in aquaplaning, winning the curved aquaplaning test.

Curved Aquaplaning

Spread: 0.68 m/sec2 (28%)|Avg: 2.12 m/sec2
Remaining lateral acceleration (Higher is better)
  1. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    2.43 m/sec2
  2. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    2.35 m/sec2
  3. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    2.29 m/sec2
  4. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    2.29 m/sec2
  5. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    2.16 m/sec2
  6. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    2.13 m/sec2
  7. Avon ZX7
    1.89 m/sec2
  8. Westlake SU318 HT
    1.83 m/sec2
  9. Michelin Primacy 4
    1.75 m/sec2

Off Road

On the slightly moist grass, there was semi correlation with wet braking, with Hankook, Michelin and Goodyear being the best of the best and Avon, Nokian and Westlake struggling a little more. There was over 10% between the best and the worst, which could be the difference of sliding around or getting moving.

Grass Traction

Spread: 0.58 M (12.8%)|Avg: 4.77 M
Grass Acceleration Distance in Meters (5 - 15 km/h) (Lower is better)
Grass Traction: Safety Impact: Best vs Worst Tyre

On gravel Goodyear narrowly beat Uniroyal, which is interesting as the Uniroyal was the most "off-road" looking tyre, but the Goodyear had the highest starting tread depth which might have helped. Vredestein and Nokian were also good on gravel. Sadly a storm broke just as we were getting to the last set, which is why the data is missing for Westlake.

Gravel Traction

Spread: 2.25 M (10.8%)|Avg: 21.61 M
Gravel Acceleration Distance in Meters (5 - 40 km/h) (Lower is better)
Gravel Traction: Safety Impact: Best vs Worst Tyre

Environment

Comfort is an important quality for an SUV tyre, and the BFGoodrich and Uniroyal led the group, narrowly ahead of the Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV

Subj. Comfort

Spread: 2.00 Points (20%)|Avg: 8.94 Points
Subjective Comfort Score (Higher is better)
  1. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    10.00 Points
  2. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    9.80 Points
  3. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    9.50 Points
  4. Michelin Primacy 4
    9.20 Points
  5. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    8.80 Points
  6. Avon ZX7
    8.50 Points
  7. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    8.50 Points
  8. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    8.20 Points
  9. Westlake SU318 HT
    8.00 Points

Conversely, the BFGoodrich had the highest external drive-by noise.

Noise

Spread: 2.60 dB (3.8%)|Avg: 70.80 dB
External noise in dB (Lower is better)
  1. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    69.30 dB
  2. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    70.30 dB
  3. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    70.50 dB
  4. Westlake SU318 HT
    70.80 dB
  5. Michelin Primacy 4
    71.00 dB
  6. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    71.10 dB
  7. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    71.10 dB
  8. Avon ZX7
    71.20 dB
  9. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    71.90 dB

The Michelin Primacy 4 had another impressive lead, this time in fuel use, having 7% lower rolling resistance than the second placed Goodyear.

Rolling Resistance

Spread: 2.11 kg / t (31.9%)|Avg: 7.86 kg / t
Rolling resistance in kg t (Lower is better)
  1. Michelin Primacy 4
    6.61 kg / t
  2. Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
    7.13 kg / t
  3. BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
    7.35 kg / t
  4. Vredestein Ultrac Satin
    7.90 kg / t
  5. Uniroyal RainSport 5
    7.93 kg / t
  6. Nokian Wetproof SUV
    8.03 kg / t
  7. Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
    8.37 kg / t
  8. Westlake SU318 HT
    8.68 kg / t
  9. Avon ZX7
    8.72 kg / t

19,000 km
£1.45/L
--
Annual Difference
--
Lifetime Savings
--
Extra Fuel/Energy
--
Extra CO2

Estimates based on typical driving conditions. Rolling resistance accounts for approximately 20% of IC vehicle fuel consumption and 25% of EV energy consumption. Actual savings vary based on driving style, vehicle weight, road conditions, and tyre age. For comparative purposes only. Lifetime savings based on a 40,000km / 25,000 mile tread life.

Results

2021 Tyre Reviews SUV Tyre TestWatch the full video of this test on YouTube Watch on YouTube
1st

Michelin Primacy 4

235/55 R18
Michelin Primacy 4
  • EU Label: B/A/69
  • Weight: 11.43 kgs
  • Tread: 6.76 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 1st 33.73 M 100%
Dry Handling 5th 104.8 s 103.54 s +1.26 s 98.8%
Subj. Dry Handling 3rd 9.5 Points 10 Points -0.5 Points 95%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 2nd 35.57 M 35.4 M +0.17 M 99.52%
Wet Handling 7th 69.82 s 68.98 s +0.84 s 98.8%
Subj. Wet Handling 4th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Straight Aqua 9th 75.31 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -13.66 Km/H 84.65%
Curved Aquaplaning 9th 1.753 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.68 m/sec2 72.08%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 6th 21.88 M 20.86 M +1.02 M 95.34%
Grass Traction 2nd 4.542 M 4.522 M +0.02 M 99.56%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 4th 9.2 Points 10 Points -0.8 Points 92%
Noise 5th 71 dB 69.3 dB +1.7 dB 97.61%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 1st 6.61 kg / t 100%
Test Winner 2021 SUV Tyre Test Michelin Primacy 4
Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
  • EU Label: B/A/70
  • Weight: 11.97 kgs
  • Tread: 8.78 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 3rd 34.84 M 33.73 M +1.11 M 96.81%
Dry Handling 3rd 104.06 s 103.54 s +0.52 s 99.5%
Subj. Dry Handling 1st 10 Points 100%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 4th 37.42 M 35.4 M +2.02 M 94.6%
Wet Handling 2nd 69.22 s 68.98 s +0.24 s 99.65%
Subj. Wet Handling 1st 10 Points 100%
Straight Aqua 4th 83.7 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -5.27 Km/H 94.08%
Curved Aquaplaning 5th 2.164 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.27 m/sec2 88.98%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 1st 20.86 M 100%
Grass Traction 3rd 4.642 M 4.522 M +0.12 M 97.41%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 3rd 9.5 Points 10 Points -0.5 Points 95%
Noise 1st 69.3 dB 100%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 2nd 7.13 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +0.52 kg / t 92.71%
Highly Recommended 2021 SUV Tyre Test Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV
3rd

Uniroyal RainSport 5

235/55 R18
Uniroyal RainSport 5
  • EU Label: C/A/71
  • Weight: 11.52 kgs
  • Tread: 8.5 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 5th 35.3 M 33.73 M +1.57 M 95.55%
Dry Handling 8th 105.39 s 103.54 s +1.85 s 98.24%
Subj. Dry Handling 6th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 1st 35.4 M 100%
Wet Handling 1st 68.98 s 100%
Subj. Wet Handling 4th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Straight Aqua 1st 88.97 Km/H 100%
Curved Aquaplaning 2nd 2.352 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.08 m/sec2 96.71%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 2nd 20.9 M 20.86 M +0.04 M 99.81%
Grass Traction 5th 4.716 M 4.522 M +0.19 M 95.89%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 2nd 9.8 Points 10 Points -0.2 Points 98%
Noise 6th 71.1 dB 69.3 dB +1.8 dB 97.47%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 5th 7.93 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +1.32 kg / t 83.35%
Recommended 2021 SUV Tyre Test Uniroyal RainSport 5
Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
  • EU Label: C/A/72
  • Weight: 12.7 kgs
  • Tread: 7.94 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 4th 34.98 M 33.73 M +1.25 M 96.43%
Dry Handling 1st 103.54 s 100%
Subj. Dry Handling 1st 10 Points 100%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 3rd 36.94 M 35.4 M +1.54 M 95.83%
Wet Handling 3rd 69.36 s 68.98 s +0.38 s 99.45%
Subj. Wet Handling 1st 10 Points 100%
Straight Aqua 6th 81.47 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -7.5 Km/H 91.57%
Curved Aquaplaning 4th 2.287 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.15 m/sec2 94.04%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 7th 22.31 M 20.86 M +1.45 M 93.5%
Grass Traction 1st 4.522 M 100%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 5th 8.8 Points 10 Points -1.2 Points 88%
Noise 2nd 70.3 dB 69.3 dB +1 dB 98.58%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 7th 8.37 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +1.76 kg / t 78.97%
Recommended 2021 SUV Tyre Test Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 SUV
5th

BFGoodrich Advantage SUV

235/55 R18
BFGoodrich Advantage SUV
  • EU Label: C/A/70
  • Weight: 11.15 kgs
  • Tread: 7.15 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 2nd 34.81 M 33.73 M +1.08 M 96.9%
Dry Handling 7th 105.33 s 103.54 s +1.79 s 98.3%
Subj. Dry Handling 6th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 6th 38.82 M 35.4 M +3.42 M 91.19%
Wet Handling 8th 70.98 s 68.98 s +2 s 97.18%
Subj. Wet Handling 7th 8.2 Points 10 Points -1.8 Points 82%
Straight Aqua 3rd 84.04 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -4.93 Km/H 94.46%
Curved Aquaplaning 3rd 2.294 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.14 m/sec2 94.33%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 5th 21.59 M 20.86 M +0.73 M 96.62%
Grass Traction 4th 4.654 M 4.522 M +0.13 M 97.16%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 1st 10 Points 100%
Noise 9th 71.9 dB 69.3 dB +2.6 dB 96.38%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 3rd 7.35 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +0.74 kg / t 89.93%
6th

Nokian Wetproof SUV

235/55 R18
Nokian Wetproof SUV
  • EU Label: C/A/70
  • Weight: 12.53 kgs
  • Tread: 8.01 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 5th 35.3 M 33.73 M +1.57 M 95.55%
Dry Handling 4th 104.37 s 103.54 s +0.83 s 99.2%
Subj. Dry Handling 6th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 5th 37.46 M 35.4 M +2.06 M 94.5%
Wet Handling 6th 69.75 s 68.98 s +0.77 s 98.9%
Subj. Wet Handling 8th 8 Points 10 Points -2 Points 80%
Straight Aqua 5th 81.6 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -7.37 Km/H 91.72%
Curved Aquaplaning 6th 2.134 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.3 m/sec2 87.75%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 4th 21.19 M 20.86 M +0.33 M 98.44%
Grass Traction 8th 4.944 M 4.522 M +0.42 M 91.46%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 6th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Noise 6th 71.1 dB 69.3 dB +1.8 dB 97.47%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 6th 8.03 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +1.42 kg / t 82.32%
7th

Vredestein Ultrac Satin

235/55 R18
Vredestein Ultrac Satin
  • EU Label: C/B/71
  • Weight: 12.24 kgs
  • Tread: 7.93 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 8th 36.03 M 33.73 M +2.3 M 93.62%
Dry Handling 6th 104.96 s 103.54 s +1.42 s 98.65%
Subj. Dry Handling 5th 9 Points 10 Points -1 Points 90%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 7th 39.47 M 35.4 M +4.07 M 89.69%
Wet Handling 5th 69.71 s 68.98 s +0.73 s 98.95%
Subj. Wet Handling 3rd 9.5 Points 10 Points -0.5 Points 95%
Straight Aqua 2nd 85.97 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -3 Km/H 96.63%
Curved Aquaplaning 1st 2.432 m/sec2 100%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 3rd 21.03 M 20.86 M +0.17 M 99.19%
Grass Traction 6th 4.887 M 4.522 M +0.36 M 92.53%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 8th 8.2 Points 10 Points -1.8 Points 82%
Noise 3rd 70.5 dB 69.3 dB +1.2 dB 98.3%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 4th 7.9 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +1.29 kg / t 83.67%
8th

Avon ZX7

235/55 R18
Avon ZX7
  • EU Label: C/A/69
  • Weight: 12.73 kgs
  • Tread: 7.68 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 7th 35.55 M 33.73 M +1.82 M 94.88%
Dry Handling 1st 103.54 s 100%
Subj. Dry Handling 3rd 9.5 Points 10 Points -0.5 Points 95%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 8th 39.64 M 35.4 M +4.24 M 89.3%
Wet Handling 4th 69.39 s 68.98 s +0.41 s 99.41%
Subj. Wet Handling 4th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Straight Aqua 7th 78.33 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -10.64 Km/H 88.04%
Curved Aquaplaning 7th 1.894 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.54 m/sec2 77.88%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Gravel Traction 8th 23.11 M 20.86 M +2.25 M 90.26%
Grass Traction 7th 4.911 M 4.522 M +0.39 M 92.08%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 6th 8.5 Points 10 Points -1.5 Points 85%
Noise 8th 71.2 dB 69.3 dB +1.9 dB 97.33%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 9th 8.72 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +2.11 kg / t 75.8%
9th

Westlake SU318 HT

235/55 R18
Westlake SU318 HT
  • Weight: 13.61 kgs
  • Tread: 8.23 mm
Test # Result Best Diff %
Dry Braking 9th 39.5 M 33.73 M +5.77 M 85.39%
Dry Handling 9th 105.71 s 103.54 s +2.17 s 97.95%
Subj. Dry Handling 9th 7.5 Points 10 Points -2.5 Points 75%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Wet Braking 9th 47.43 M 35.4 M +12.03 M 74.64%
Wet Handling 9th 72.09 s 68.98 s +3.11 s 95.69%
Subj. Wet Handling 9th 7 Points 10 Points -3 Points 70%
Straight Aqua 8th 75.57 Km/H 88.97 Km/H -13.4 Km/H 84.94%
Curved Aquaplaning 8th 1.831 m/sec2 2.432 m/sec2 -0.6 m/sec2 75.29%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Grass Traction 9th 5.103 M 4.522 M +0.58 M 88.61%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Subj. Comfort 9th 8 Points 10 Points -2 Points 80%
Noise 4th 70.8 dB 69.3 dB +1.5 dB 97.88%
Test # Result Best Diff %
Rolling Resistance 8th 8.68 kg / t 6.61 kg / t +2.07 kg / t 76.15%

Discussion

56 comments
  1. Mo archived

    Hi

    For X5 , between kumho ps71 ecsta , falken azensis fk250l , Dunlop sp sport maxx 050+suv , Dunlop sp sport maxx 060+ , Bridgestone potenza sport , and Bridgestone turanza 6 what's best?

    #9560
    1. TyreReviews Mo archived

      It depends what you're looking for. The Turanza 6 is probably the best all round tyre of the bunch but not that sporty.

      #9586
  2. Mo archived

    Hi

    #9559
  3. Miroslav Nikolic archived

    Hello - sorry for bumping in on an old thread, but I have an interesting question, hopefully.
    I see that in this test some light off-road tests were carried out, while there was also a couple of AT tires tests on your site that also included some gravel and dirt road driving.
    Is there a chance we get also a test of AS tires (in European terms, so 3PMSF certified) for SUV vehicles, that also includes some light off-road tests?
    Throwing in some mild-AT tires in the loop as well would be a win-win situation. Granted, the "regular" AS tires are not as puncture resistant as the AT tires, but some of them have solid internal constructions (something like: two high strength steel belts and a single ply nylon layer atop a dual-ply polyester body casing), so in SUV sizes, it would be interesting to see how do they fare against each other.
    Thanks a lot and continue with the good work!

    #9526
    1. TyreReviews Miroslav Nikolic archived

      I would hesitate to suggest that any EU all season tire is suitable for offroad use. Their construction is now so thin punctures would be a major issue.

      #9548
  4. Peter archived

    When owning an SUV (GLB 235x50x19) but using it exclusively on the road (mostly dry / hot conditions) as a family car, what type of tyres are more relevant, the SUV ones or the regular Touring/UHP ones? Daily use, no real sporty driving, just appreciating the handling and braking characteristics of UHP tyres mostly for safety reasons.

    #9477
    1. Peter Peter archived

      ...and just to make it a bit more specific do i go for something like PS4 SUV (or 5 if available or Primacy4+ for less sporty) or a Conti PC7?

      #9480
      1. TyreReviews Peter archived

        Often these days the SUV variant of a tyre is just for marketing, so if you have the size and load rating needed, it doesn't really matter if it has an SUV on the sidewall. That said, the PS4 SUV is excellent.

        #9499
        1. Peter TyreReviews archived

          Looks like in 235x50x19 my options in my market are the PZ4, F1 Assymetric 6 and PS4 SUV. Same price pretty much. Which one would you go for on a GLB aiming for best braking and handling on wet and dry? Thank you!

          #9533
          1. TyreReviews Peter archived

            Hard choice between the Goodyear and Michelin in this case.

            #9542
        2. 4cvg TyreReviews archived

          I note your view but often there is a difference between the variants. My understanding is that the SUV variant is sometimes harder-compounded & more heavily siped to restore a bit of wet grip.
          I think that a "is there really a difference?" test comparing a bunch of tyre pairs, that nominally differ only by the tag 'SUV' on one, would be a nice exercise. So: GY EGP 2 & GY EGP 2 SUV & so on.
          You might even get some manufacturers to comment on what the design differences are (& why) & see how that correlates with test results.

          #10181
  5. jerrymander archived

    Just got a Nissan Armada and they had put the Westlake SU 318 on the rear. Running at 8/32, in the first big rain of the spring and holy cow they are just garbage, I had no idea they still made anything this bad. Acceleration around a corner with the V8 torque and the rear is suddenly sliding out like I'm 16 again driving an Oldsmobile!

    Can't wait to get rid of them. What would you put on the Armada in TX where we see months of extreme heat and occasional massive downpours of rain on torn up roads with lots of highway driving? Thinking about Scorpion AS3+, GY Steadfast or Continental HT or AT.

    #9414
    1. TyreReviews jerrymander archived

      I'm a big fan of the Continental TerrainContact AT, I use it myself in the summer months in Utah.

      #9433
  6. mechengineer10 archived

    How would these touring-type SUV tyres compare with H/T tyres when it comes to towing a boat up a slippery boat ramp? Which would be the better choice for that application?

    #9052
  7. TyreReviews archived

    Glad you like them :) IF you get some time please put a review on the site!

    #8999
  8. Michael Briscoe archived

    Hi I have a Lexus UX 250h with Bridgestone t005 225/50/18 run flats. Is there a true that performed as well but more comfortable and quieter.
    Thanks

    #8897
    1. TyreReviews Michael Briscoe archived

      if you want a big step up in comfort I'm afraid ditching the runflats is the only real solution at the moment!

      #8900
  9. PH archived

    Hi which tyre is good Pilot Sport 4 SUV
    225/60R18 100V or Michelin PRIMACY SUV
    i have a nissan xtrail ?

    #8573
    1. TyreReviews PH archived

      Both good tyres with different design intentions, depends if you want a bit of sportyness

      #8574
  10. Jaison archived

    Hello,

    I recently bought a 2018 Lexus RX450h 2018 which needs new tyres. I live in the UK but 1 to 3 times a year I drive in the Alps (snowy conditions). My question being, is it worth to buy something like Michelin CrossClimate2 for all year around or something similar (if you have any other recommendations) or I m better with summer tyres and then get some budget winter tyres and eventually another set of wheels for my occasional trips? If so, what premium summer/budget winter tires I should go for? Just want to mention that although it s a big heavy car I like to throw in the corners every now and then on a country road. Many thanks and you re doing a great job with your reviews, I watched almost all your reviews but still couldn’t decide.

    #8514
    1. TyreReviews Jaison archived

      I definitely wouldn't recommend budget winter tyres, and I sadly wouldn't recommend an all season tyre if you like to throw around a heavy car. That just leaves premium winter tyres for your trips (or all season tyres as a winter tyre)

      #8520
  11. yondon archived

    Hi, which tire would you go for Tiguan front wheel drive 235/55R18? Assymetric 5 or EfficientGrip2?

    #8455
    1. TyreReviews yondon archived

      With that sort of vehicle I would probably opt for the EfficientGrip 2

      #8460
      1. yondon TyreReviews archived

        Efficientgrip 2 SUV or Michelin Primacy 4+ (xl), same size?

        #8475
        1. TyreReviews yondon archived

          Hard question. Which ever is cheaper?!

          #8478
          1. yondon TyreReviews archived

            Tell me about it. Same price both...Exactly. can't make up my mind ?

            #8479
  12. John Romerro archived

    Thank you for your comparison & for wide information available on the site.

    I would like to know your opinion what summer tires I should buy for my Mazda cx5 2015? I live in Finland & the weather is really awkward. Sometimes, rains & sometimes long dry spells especially in the South. Previously, I have used Michelin latitude sport 3 but experienced the same problems i.e. Best on dry but [almost] worst in wet especially in aquaplains [which are many on Finnish roads]. Considering these conditions, can you please help & suggest which tires to buy & I will really appreciate your help.
    P.s: I drive very much both intercity & long trips trips.

    #8381
  13. PH archived

    Primacy 4 or Pilot sport 4 SUV which one is better there is 5 $ difference btwn the 2 ? What is difference between Good year EG SUV & EG Performance SUV
    This is for a Xtrail sport 4wd

    #8172
    1. TyreReviews PH archived

      I've not tested them back to back, but the assumption is the Primacy 4 will be more comfortable and offer better rolling resistance, and the Pilot Sport 4 SUV will be a little more tuned for handling. There's no better, just different.

      #8173
  14. Bob archived

    Rank Primacy 4, Continental PremiumContact 6 and Pilot Sport 4 SUV with weighting given to dry/wet braking & mileage?

    I can get the Pilot Sport 4 SUV for cheapest.

    #8169
    1. TyreReviews Bob archived

      I'd take the PS4 SUV especially if it's CHEAPEST! It's by far the newest

      #8170
  15. savvas archived

    Hello and thanks for the video and test!!
    I bought a Ford Ecosport 4x4 SUV AWD (small Size SUV) with 2018 Goodyear EG tyres. I will change them and I would like your opinion between Goodyear EG 2 or Michelin Primacy 4, which will be fit better ? (Some other option by sellers here locally they say Falken Azen FK510 or Vredestein Ultrac (New) )

    #8080
    1. TyreReviews savvas archived

      I'm not sure what i'd pick, both are excellent tyres!

      #8081
      1. savvas TyreReviews archived

        Thanks for the quick reply. I order Vredestein Ultrac (New model) - 205/50/R17 - Ford Ecosport 1.5 diesel. 4x4. Let's try and see this model! I will add comments and reviews. Thanks. (Ultrac is the nent generation, us you say in the video, its newest tyre rather Ultrac Satin or Ultrac old model)

        #8082
  16. yondon archived

    Hello and Thanks for that comprehensive test!
    Two questions please:
    1. How does the Goodyear EG2 compare with the F1 Eagle ASYM 5 in that size (235/555R18) ?
    which one would you pick for an all around tyre?
    2. for that size 235/55R18 it seems that the older Eagle F1 Asym 3 SUV gets better EU rating than the Asym 5 (A vs B in Wet Braking). does that mean that in this specific size it's better to stick with the older Asym 3?

    #7942
      1. yondon TyreReviews archived

        Thanks for the fast reply.
        1. You're link directing to the main channel page. Which particular video shoild I watch?
        2. Why? Isn't short braking distance on wet is good anough reason?

        #7944
        1. TyreReviews yondon archived

          I said latest video, which is the most recent one.

          There's more to a tyre than wet braking, also if you go through all the tests on the site and the wet braking results in the tests compared to the labels, it's not always as clear as you'd expect.

          #7945
          1. yondon TyreReviews archived

            Thanks a lot. I was referring to efficient grip 2 SUV. Does efficientgrip performance 2 is the same?

            #7946
            1. yondon yondon archived

              okay, watch that video :)
              I believe you were referring to this..?
              https://www.youtube.com/wat...

              Honestly, I'm a bit confused by you're answer :/

              1. From my understanding same tire can be great in one size and less better in different size. I've asked How does the Goodyear EG2 compare with the F1 Eagle ASYM 5 in that size (235/555R18). but on that latest video the test ae for tires in totally different size. So how is it possible to compare it to the Turanza T005..?

              2. Since you recommend getting the Asym 5 over the Asym 3 SUV although the Wet braking is "worse" in 235/555R18 size, I would still like to know which one would you pick for this size?
              The Goodyear Efficientgrip 2 235/555R18 or F1 Eagle ASYM 5 235/555R18?

              Many thanks in advance!

              #7947
  17. Bart archived

    If you say SUV, do you automaticcaly mean 4X4 ? If not, why would you recommend a different tyre for let's say a Seat Ateca compared to a Ford Focus Break for example ? To me, this is a bit strange because for an SUV you land on a Michelin Primacy 4 and for a break of hatch you will land on Michelin Pilot Sport 4 for example. Although a front wheel driven SUV has usually les traction on the front wheels compared to lower cars. Wouldn't it make more sence to put the tyre with the most grip on the SUV for that reason ?

    #7793
    1. TyreReviews Bart archived

      Nope! Anything classed as an SUV.

      I'm not even sure the PS4 is made in many crossover SUV tyre sizes, but for the type of tyre in this test, "sporty driving" is a lower priority to noise, comfort and rolling resistance, which is why we tested the primacy 4 category of tyre.

      The is a PS4 SUV, but that's usually for high performance SUVs

      #7794
  18. David Card archived

    The test vehicle for the SUV tire (tyre) test seems well enough for the smaller SUV vehicles but will the results be similar for larger SUVs?https://uploads.disquscdn.c...

    #7079
    1. TyreReviews David Card archived

      There should be some crossover where the patterns are available in your size, but I'd be surprised if they all were!

      #7081
      1. David Card TyreReviews archived

        I ended up going with Nokian One HT, pretty much a cross between "what the heck" and "a path less traveled." It was a toss up between Michelins, Continentals and Nokians. Not much info from 3rd party reviews on the Nokian but the price was low enough to take a chance.

        #7082
        1. TyreReviews David Card archived

          Be sure to let me know how you get on with them! :)

          #7083
  19. Jianni archived

    Hi all, quick question.

    What is the difference between Touring tyres vs all-season vs performance vs summer tyres?

    #7032
    1. TyreReviews Jianni archived

      Many things :) There's quite a few videos on the youtube channel or articles on the website covering it, it's a little much for a comment. A good start - https://www.youtube.com/wat...

      #7033
  20. Steve archived

    Another interesting test.

    Are there any plans in the future to test all season tyres for performance in various temperatures again and/or different levels of wear?

    Would be great to see the new CC2, V4S-G3, 4S2, A005 EVO & Quatrac in these

    Do you know when the new CC2 is coming to the UK, and is Conti planning an update to the AllSeasonContact?

    #6986
    1. TyreReviews Steve archived

      Temperatures, unlikely, wear, I hope to do next year, though it's difficult to do properly!

      The CC2 is officially launched Sept 2nd I believe, and no there is no update for the ASC for this year.

      #6987
  21. Pedro Neves archived

    Great test, once more! Since you couldn't get in this test the Continental PC 6, and the Goodyear Asym 5, what about you ask Continental to test in their facilities the PC6, the Eco Contact 6 (eventually, the Eco Contact 5 SUV as well) and the Sport Contact 5 SUV in this size (in a kind of "old vs new premium+UHP test"), and then do the same with Goodyear and ask them to test the Asym 5, the EfficientGrip 2 SUV (eventually, the Asym 3 SUV as well) and the EfficientGrip SUV. Hopefully, they will arrange you similar cars to the ones on this test.
    If you can't get all the tyres you want at once, you can always test them separately afterwards in a way tyre manufacturers would prefer!... ;)

    #6941
    1. TyreReviews Pedro Neves archived

      I'd certainly like to do such a test, a Swedish magazine did it recently with F1 SS, Asym 5 and EGP2 I believe and the results are interesting, though I've not had the time to go through it and get it on the site yet.

      #6942
      1. Pedro Neves TyreReviews archived

        I'm glad you enjoyed the idea. I forgot to mention that if you ever convince Michelin to support you in a test like this, and in this size, you should make an effort to get the Primacy 4, the Primacy 3, the Latitude Sport 3, and (why not?) the CrossClimate 2. Too bad they don't make the PS4 SUV in this popular size. It could just be that they have too much offer in their warehouse.

        #6943
    2. MASIV Pedro Neves archived

      The EcoContact 6 is a terrible tyre. I had them as OE with my xc40, from new. I found them fidgety in the wet and I had no confidence in them when it came to aquaplaning. As soon as the tread was halfway worn they started wheel spinning when pulling out at junctions or onto a roundabouts in the wet at anything other than a crawl.

      #8606