Consumer Reports test of best performance tires
More and more cars are coming equipped with performance tires, but the price can add up when it's time to replace them. Consumer Reports has partnered exclusively with 7 On Your Side to reveal which wheels offer the best deals.
Performance tires aren't just for expensive sports cars anymore. You can get them now on mainstream models like the Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Malibu, but they're pricey to replace. Consumer Reports can help you get the right ones.
Ultra-high performance tires are designed for responsive handling and maximum grip. Consumer Reports' Ryan Pszczolkowski put over 40 of them through their paces at the test track in both dry and wet conditions to find the best.
"When I get in the corner, how well does the tire hold on? When I accelerate out of the corner how well does the tire give me traction? Does it just spin? How stable, how well does the tire brake?" said Pszczolkowski.
Testing included both all-season tires and summer tires, which are meant for temperatures well above freezing. In addition to performance, testers evaluated tread-wear.
"Unfortunately ultra-high performance tires don't wear well. The all-season models which we tested only had a maximum warranty of 60,000 miles. The summer models rarely have a warranty at all," said Pszczolkowski.
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport had the longest tread life of any of the summer tires tested. They go for $203 and aced the tests. And for all-season tires, the Michelin Pilot sport A/S 3 for $175 earned top rating. They also have a relatively long tread life and impressive grip.
Consumer Reports says when buying new tires, it's best to stick with the same size and speed rating as your car's original tires. That gives you the optimum ride and handling.
Consumer Reports is published by Consumers Union. Both Consumer Reports and Consumers Union are not-for-profit organizations that accept no advertising. Neither has any commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor on this site.
(All Consumer Reports Material Copyright 2014. Consumers Union of U.S. Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)
