Best Performance Tyres 2024 – Top 7 Recommended Brands

Test Summary and Overall Performance

In the test summary and overall performance, it is evident that the Continental PremiumContact 7 emerged as the top-performing tyre. The Continental PremiumContact 7 showcased exceptional performance in various aspects, making it the standout choice among the tested tyres. In terms of dry braking, the Continental PremiumContact 7 performed impressively, surpassing other tyres with a braking distance of 35.27 meters. Its dry handling capabilities were also commendable, securing a perfect score of 100 points in subjective dry handling.

When it comes to wet braking, the Continental PremiumContact 7 once again excelled, outperforming other tyres with a braking distance of 31.58 meters. In wet conditions, the tyre demonstrated significant improvement, showcasing its ability to handle wet surfaces with confidence and reliability.

Wet Performance

The wet performance of the tested tyres was a crucial factor in determining their overall performance and suitability for various driving conditions. In the wet handling tests, there was a noticeable difference between the top-performing tyres and the rest. The cheapest tyre, Doublecoin, had poor grip and steering, while Nankang exhibited more oversteer compared to other tyres. On the other hand, GT Radial showed good steering and predictable balance. Vredestein emerged as the best among midrange brands, demonstrating good grip and handling.

When it came to wet braking, the Continental PremiumContact 7 performed the best when new. Bridgestone, Goodyear, and Michelin showed the least performance reduction when worn. However, Yokohama struggled with wet braking across all tests.

In terms of aquaplaning, Continental finished at the top in both straight and curved aquaplaning tests. Michelin and Goodyear also performed well in deeper water conditions.

Dry Performance

When evaluating the performance of performance tyres, the dry performance of a tyre is a crucial aspect to consider. Dry performance refers to how well a tyre performs on dry surfaces, including its ability to brake, handle, and provide a stable and responsive driving experience.

In terms of dry braking, all tyres in the test showed a difference of within 2%, except for the Yokohama tyre, which may benefit from having more grip. This suggests that the braking performance of most performance tyres is fairly similar on dry surfaces.

When it comes to dry handling, all tyres performed within a 2% range on the lap. However, there were significant differences in the subjective feel among tyres targeting the same customer. This means that while the lap times may be similar, the overall driving experience and feedback from the tyre can vary.

In the category of dry performance, the tyres were divided into different groups. The Group 1 tyres, which included brands like Hankook, Michelin, and Continental, were classified as sports touring tyres. These tyres are designed to provide a balance between performance and comfort on dry surfaces.

Comfort and Noise

Comfort and noise are factors that are frequently considered when evaluating the performance of performance tyres. When it comes to comfort, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 receives the highest rating of 100 points, indicating its ability to provide a comfortable driving experience. On the other hand, the Yokohama Advan Sport V107 receives a rating of 90 points, suggesting that it also offers a good level of comfort but slightly falls short of the Goodyear tyre.

In terms of noise, the Continental PremiumContact 7 emerges as the quietest car tyre with a noise rating of 71.9 dB. The Yokohama Advan Sport V107 follows closely behind with a noise rating of 72.9 dB. These ratings indicate that both tyres are relatively quiet, providing a pleasant driving experience with minimal noise disturbance.

In addition to comfort and noise, other factors such as rolling resistance and abrasion are also important to consider. The Continental PremiumContact 7 excels in rolling resistance with a rating of 8.4 kg/t, indicating its ability to reduce energy consumption. On the other hand, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport performs well in terms of abrasion, with a rating of 65.7 mg/km/t, suggesting its durability and longer tread life.

Rolling Resistance and Fuel Economy

Continuing the evaluation of performance tyres, an important aspect to consider is their impact on rolling resistance and fuel economy. When it comes to rolling resistance, lower is better as it indicates less energy required to keep the tyres rolling. This directly affects fuel economy, as reduced rolling resistance means the vehicle requires less fuel to maintain speed. Here are two key points to consider:

• Tyre Construction:
• The design and construction of performance tyres play a crucial role in determining their rolling resistance. Manufacturers employ various technologies, such as advanced tread compounds and optimized tread patterns, to reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
• Some performance tyres feature low rolling resistance technology, which includes innovative materials and construction techniques. These tyres are specifically designed to minimize energy loss and enhance fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
• EU Labeling:
• To help consumers make informed decisions, the European Union requires all tyres to carry a label indicating their fuel efficiency rating. The label includes a rating scale from A to G, with A being the most fuel-efficient and G being the least. Performance tyres with a higher fuel efficiency rating can contribute to better fuel economy and reduced carbon emissions.

Considering the impact of rolling resistance on fuel economy is essential when selecting performance tyres, as it helps drivers optimize their vehicle’s efficiency without compromising on performance capabilities.

Tyre Wear and Environmental Impact

Regarding the topic of ‘Tyre Wear and Environmental Impact’, it is important to examine the longevity of performance tyres and their effects on the environment. Tyre wear refers to the gradual reduction in tread depth over time, which can affect the overall performance and safety of the tyre. Performance tyres are designed to provide excellent grip and handling, but their softer compounds can lead to faster wear compared to regular tyres. This can result in the need for more frequent tyre replacements, leading to increased costs for consumers and the production of more waste.

Additionally, tyre wear also has environmental implications. As tyres wear down, they release microplastics and other particulate matter into the environment. These particles can contribute to air and water pollution, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. Furthermore, the production and disposal of tyres also have significant environmental impacts, including the consumption of natural resources, energy usage, and the release of greenhouse gases.

To mitigate these environmental effects, tyre manufacturers are continuously working on developing technologies and materials that improve the longevity of performance tyres while reducing their environmental footprint. This includes using more sustainable materials, optimizing tyre designs for longer tread life, and promoting proper tyre maintenance practices. By considering the tyre wear and environmental impact of performance tyres, we can make more informed choices that prioritize both performance and sustainability.

Dry Braking Performance

Dry braking performance is a critical aspect to consider when evaluating the best performance tyres in 2024. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and control of a vehicle during dry road conditions. When it comes to dry braking, there are two key factors to consider:

1. Braking Distance: The ability of a tyre to reduce the speed of a vehicle quickly and effectively is essential in emergency situations. The shorter the braking distance, the better the performance of the tyre. In the current test results, the Continental PremiumContact 7 demonstrated the best dry braking performance with a distance of 35.27 meters, closely followed by the Double-Coin DC99 with a distance of 39.62 meters.
2. Stability and Grip: In addition to the braking distance, the stability and grip of a tyre during braking are crucial. A tyre with good stability provides better control and minimizes the risk of skidding or sliding. The Continental PremiumContact 7 received the highest score in subjective dry handling, indicating its superior stability and grip during braking.

Considering these factors, it is evident that the Continental PremiumContact 7 stands out as the top-performing tyre in terms of dry braking performance. Its ability to reduce braking distance and provide excellent stability makes it an ideal choice for those seeking optimal performance and safety on dry roads.

Wet Braking Performance

Moving on to the evaluation of wet braking performance, how do the performance tyres in 2024 fare in this crucial aspect of road safety?

Wet braking performance is a critical factor to consider when evaluating performance tyres. In the 2024 tests, the Continental PremiumContact 7 emerged as the top performer in wet braking. It displayed excellent performance when new, and even when worn, it had the least reduction in performance compared to other brands such as Bridgestone, Goodyear, and Michelin.

On the other hand, the Yokohama Advan Sport V107 struggled with wet braking across all tests. This indicates that it may not be the best choice for those seeking optimal wet braking performance.

It is important to note that wet braking performance is crucial for road safety, as it directly affects a vehicle’s ability to come to a stop quickly and safely in wet conditions. Therefore, it is advisable for drivers to prioritize tyres that excel in wet braking performance to ensure maximum safety on the road.

Dry Handling Performance

Continuing the evaluation of performance tyres in the 2024 tests, the focus now shifts to the aspect of handling in dry conditions. Dry handling is a crucial factor for performance tyres as it determines how well they can grip the road and provide precise control during cornering and maneuvering. In this category, the tyres were assessed based on their performance in terms of braking and overall lap time. Here are the key findings:

• Braking Performance:
• All tyres showed a minimal difference in dry braking performance, with the exception of Yokohama, which may benefit from improved grip.
• Lap Time Performance:
• The tyres performed within a 2% range on the lap, indicating similar levels of overall performance.
• However, there were significant differences in the feel and handling characteristics among the tyres targeting the same customer segment.

These results highlight the importance of considering subjective factors such as feel and handling preferences when choosing performance tyres for dry conditions. The findings also suggest that while all the tested tyres demonstrated satisfactory dry handling performance, there are variations in terms of the driving experience they offer.

Wet Handling Performance

Assessing the wet handling performance of the tested performance tyres in the 2024 tests revealed significant variations in grip and control. Wet handling is a crucial aspect for performance tyres, as it directly affects safety and control in wet road conditions. To provide a comprehensive overview of the wet handling performance of the tested tyres, a table is presented below:

The table showcases the wet handling performance of three different tyre brands. Brand A demonstrates good wet lap grip, average wet braking performance, and excellent aquaplaning resistance. Brand B excels in wet lap grip, performs well in wet braking, and has good resistance to aquaplaning. On the other hand, Brand C shows average wet lap grip, poor wet braking performance, and average aquaplaning resistance.

These variations in wet handling performance highlight the importance of choosing the right performance tyre for specific weather conditions. It is crucial to consider factors such as grip, braking performance, and resistance to aquaplaning to ensure optimal safety and control in wet road conditions.

Grip and Steering Assessment

Building upon the previous discussion of wet handling performance, the grip and steering assessment of the tested performance tyres in the 2024 tests provides valuable insights into their overall control and handling capabilities.

• Grip:
• The top performers in wet grip were Continental, Michelin, and Goodyear, while Doublecoin struggled with grip in both wet and dry conditions.
• Nankang showed more oversteer than other tyres, indicating a potential lack of grip and stability.
• GT Radial demonstrated good steering and predictable balance, offering reliable grip in wet conditions.
• Vredestein stood out among midrange brands, delivering impressive grip and handling.
• Steering:
• Continental PremiumContact 7 was favored for its crisp steering and enjoyable driving experience in both wet and dry conditions.
• Doublecoin, being the cheapest tyre, had poor steering response and lacked the precision and control found in premium tyres.
• Other brands, such as Bridgestone, Kumho, Pirelli, and Hankook, also offered good steering response and balanced handling.

The grip and steering assessment is crucial in determining a tyre’s ability to provide control and handling in various conditions. The results highlight the importance of choosing a tyre that offers reliable grip and precise steering for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Tyre Categories

The classification of performance tyres into different categories allows consumers to make informed choices based on their specific needs and preferences. When it comes to performance tyres, there are several categories to consider. One category is sports touring tyres, which include brands like Hankook, Michelin, and Continental. These tyres are designed to provide a balance between performance and comfort, making them suitable for everyday driving. Another category is track-focused tyres, such as Bridgestone and Yokohama. These tyres are specifically designed for high-performance driving and offer quick steering response and excellent grip on dry surfaces. Additionally, there are midrange brands like Vredestein and Goodyear, which provide a good balance between performance and affordability. It is important for consumers to consider their driving style, road conditions, and budget when selecting the right tyre category for their needs. By understanding the different tyre categories and their specific characteristics, consumers can choose the best performance tyre that meets their requirements.

Price and Value

Continuing the discussion on tyre categories, considering price and value is an essential factor when selecting the best performance tyre for individual needs and preferences. When it comes to price and value, there are several important aspects to consider:

Initial Cost:

• Compare the prices of different performance tyres and choose the one that fits within your budget.
• Keep in mind that higher-priced tyres may offer better performance and durability, but they might not always be necessary for your specific driving requirements.

Long-Term Value:

• Consider the longevity of the tyre and its ability to maintain performance over time.
• Look for tyres that offer a good balance between performance, durability, and cost.
• Check customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the long-term value of a particular tyre brand or model.

Environmental Factors

Considering environmental factors is crucial when selecting the best performance tyre for your needs and preferences. Environmental factors not only impact the overall performance of the tyre, but also contribute to sustainability and eco-friendliness. One important aspect to consider is rolling resistance, which affects fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Tyres with lower rolling resistance require less energy to move, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Bridgestone Turanza T005, Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, and Toyo are some of the tyres that excel in rolling resistance. Additionally, noise and comfort play a role in the environmental impact of tyres. Tyres with lower noise levels contribute to a quieter driving experience and reduced noise pollution. Michelin Primacy 4+ and Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 are known for their excellent noise and comfort performance. It is also worth noting that some tyres, such as Michelin, produce less rubber particulate matter, which further contributes to a cleaner environment. By considering these environmental factors, you can make a more sustainable choice when selecting performance tyres.

Final Results and Recommendations

Based on the comprehensive testing and evaluation, the final results reveal the top-performing performance tyre for 2024. The Continental PremiumContact 7 emerged as the clear winner, surpassing its competitors in various performance categories. Here are the final results and recommendations:

Performance:

• Dry Braking: Continental PremiumContact 7 demonstrated the shortest braking distance, ensuring excellent safety on dry roads.
• Dry Handling: Continental PremiumContact 7 showcased exceptional handling capabilities, providing drivers with precise and enjoyable driving experiences.
• Wet Braking: Continental PremiumContact 7 outperformed other tyres in wet braking, offering reliable stopping power on wet surfaces.
• Wet Handling: Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 exhibited impressive wet handling characteristics, delivering confidence-inspiring grip and stability.

Comfort and Noise:

• Comfort: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 received the highest comfort rating, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Noise: Continental PremiumContact 7 generated the lowest noise level, ensuring a quiet and pleasant driving experience.

Environmental Impact:

• Rolling Resistance: Bridgestone Turanza T005 displayed the best rolling resistance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Noise and Comfort: Michelin Primacy 4+ and Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 excelled in noise reduction and overall comfort.
• Value: Doublecoin emerged as the most affordable tyre option, while Continental stood out as the premium choice.

Based on these results, the Continental PremiumContact 7 is the top recommendation for performance, safety, and overall satisfaction in the year 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Were the Tyres Tested for Wet Performance in Terms of Grip and Handling?

The tyres were tested for wet performance in terms of grip and handling by evaluating their performance in deep water, measuring the speed at which the tyre started spinning faster, assessing cornering performance in distorted water-shifting channels, and recording braking distance on wet asphalt.

What Were the Key Factors Evaluated for Dry Performance of the Tyres?

The key factors evaluated for dry performance of the tyres included dry braking and handling. Dry braking was measured from 62mph to a stop, while handling was assessed on a section of the Contidrom circuit that combined fast sweeps with quick changes of direction.

How Were Comfort and Noise Levels Assessed for the Different Tyre Brands?

Comfort and noise levels for different tyre brands were assessed by evaluating comfort scores and measuring noise levels in decibels. Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 received the highest comfort score of 100 points, while Continental PremiumContact 7 had the lowest noise level of 71.9 dB.

What Factors Were Considered When Measuring Rolling Resistance and Fuel Economy of the Tyres?

When measuring rolling resistance and fuel economy of the tyres, factors such as the force required to roll a loaded tyre at a given speed, rolling resistance differences between underinflated and correctly inflated tyres, and the impact of rolling resistance on fuel consumption were considered.

Which Tyre Brand Demonstrated the Longest Tread Life and Performed Best in Terms of Environmental Impact?

The tyre brand that demonstrated the longest tread life and performed best in terms of environmental impact was Michelin. They surpassed other brands in tread life and produced less rubber particulate matter, making them a top choice for sustainability.

Our Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of various tyre brands in the year 2024, focusing on the popular 205/55R16 size. The Continental PremiumContact 7 emerged as the top-performing tyre, excelling in dry braking and handling. The evaluation also considered factors such as wet performance, comfort and noise, rolling resistance and fuel economy, tyre categories, price and value, and environmental impact. This evaluation aims to assist consumers in making informed decisions when selecting performance tyres for their vehicles.