Best Performance Tires From Consumer Reports' Tests
Consumer Reports' latest tire test results for the ultra-high-performance category underscores the differences between tire types, such as all-season versus winter/snow, and the spectrum of performance within each type.
“A car’s performance is only as good as the tires, because they are the only contact with the road,” says Gene Petersen, tire program manager at Consumer Reports.
Ultra-high-performance tires offer high levels of grip and responsive handling to deliver the agility expected in a performance-focused sedan or sports car.
Our latest tire testing reveals the models that are most up to the task. Among other findings, our testing shows that ultra-high-performance tires wear more quickly than regular car tires.
We tested 21 models of ultra-high-performance (UHP) all-season tires that deliver high levels of dry and wet grip and handling and some snow traction. We also tested 23 models of UHP summer tires.
UHP summer tires are designed to further emphasize dry and wet grip; they are not suited to cold, wintry weather and snow-covered roads.
In our ratings, tires that underperform their warranty have points deducted from their Overall Score. Some UHP summer tires and most winter/snow tires do not have a mileage warranty.
CR’s Unique Testing
Overall, we purchased 520 tires this year for our full test program, covering 51 models for UHP all-season and summer tires and performance winter/snow categories. We tested them at our track in Connecticut for wet and dry braking and handling, ride comfort and quietness, and resistance to hydroplaning. We evaluated each tire’s grip on ice at a nearby skating rink and snow traction was performed in New York state.
We also commissioned outside labs to measure each tire’s rolling resistance, which affects fuel economy, and extensive treadwear tests on public roads in western Texas.
See the treadwear ratings on the tire model pages.
Below we share highlights from our latest tests, pointing to the best tires.
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Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2019, Consumer Reports, Inc.
