2025 AZ Summer Tire Test

The 2025 Auto Zeitung summer tire test has tested ten ultra high performance 225/45 R18 patterns in the dry and wet, and this year included wear!

The wear test has added some interesting highlights, which we'll discuss below.

Test Publication:

225/45 R18 10 tires 4 categories

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Images courtesy of Auto Zeitung

Test Publication:

https://www.autozeitung.de/reifen-test

Images courtesy of Auto Zeitung

Test Size: 225/45 R18

Tires Tested: 10 tires

Test Categories:
4 categories (12 tests)

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We're not sure why, but Auto Zeitung did not calculate value, ie the price per 1000km driven. This paints a really interesting picture as the test winning Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is ALSO the best value tire. A set of 4 costs 665 euros and the calculated tread life is 50,000km giving a cost per 1000 km of 13.3 Euros. When you compare it to one of the budget tires, which only cost 300 euros for a set, and performed terribly in all the tests, the fact they only last 20,000km means they actually cost you more money!

Other than the Goodyear having a near perfect results, the Continental PremiumContact 7 was great in wet handling, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport was the sporty option, and the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 was a solid all rounder, even though it was a little down in the wet.

Below is the full dataset.

Dry

In dry braking, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport delivered the shortest stopping distance at 33m, while the Mastersteel Super Sport 2 needed 36.9m - a 10.6% difference that could be crucial in emergency situations.

The dry handling test showed the Toyo Proxes Sport 2 was quickest around the track at 68.7 seconds, with the Mastersteel trailing at 71.5 seconds - a 3.9% gap that demonstrates the handling limitations of budget options.

Wet

In wet braking, the differences were dramatic. The Continental PremiumContact 7 stopped in just 41.8m, while the Mastersteel required a concerning 52.7m - a massive 20.7% difference that highlights significant safety implications in rainy conditions.

The wet handling test saw the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 lead with 69.7 seconds, while the Mastersteel needed 77 seconds - a 9.5% gap.

The Wet Circle test measured cornering ability on wet surfaces, with the Bridgestone Potenza Sport achieving the fastest time at 11.11 seconds while the Mastersteel Super Sport 2 required 12.58 seconds - an 11.7% difference showing how premium tires maintain grip in wet corners, which is larger than wet handling.

The Straight Aquaplaning test assessed resistance to aquaplaning, with the Vredestein Ultrac Pro remaining stable up to 76.6 km/h while the Mastersteel lost grip at just 70.8 km/h.

Comfort

In the Subjective Comfort assessment, the Continental PremiumContact 7 led the way.

The budget Mastersteel had the lowest external passby noise of the test.

Value

Wear testing revealed the most surprising results, with the Goodyear projected to last 50,000km while budget options like Triangle and Mastersteel managed just 20,000km - a 150% difference that completely transforms the value equation despite lower purchase prices.

Rolling Resistance measurements showed the Mastersteel Super Sport 2 was most efficient at 7.35 kg/t while the Bridgestone Potenza Sport required 10.15 kg/t - a 27.6% difference that directly impacts fuel consumption and emissions.

The Abrasion test measured tread wear per 1,000km, with the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 losing just 0.085mm while the Triangle EffeXSport lost 0.185mm - a 117.6% difference confirming Michelin's reputation for durability despite higher purchase price.

Results

1^st

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/70
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10 kgs
• Tread: 6.9 mm
• Price: 665.00

On dry roads, the Goodyear builds tremendous grip with precise steering response and remains completely manageable even at the limit. It stops quickly and handles transitions smoothly while offering decent comfort. In wet conditions, it truly excels with the quickest handling time, strong braking, and a sporty yet neutral balance that inspires confidence. The Goodyear's remarkable environmental credentials with minimal wear, long life expectancy, and good efficiency make it a complete package. It masters both performance and sustainability better than any competitor, justifying its premium price by offering the best value in the long run.

Dry

99.5%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	2nd	33.3 M	33 M	+0.3 M	99.1%
Dry Handling	2nd	68.8 s	68.7 s	+0.1 s	99.85%

Wet

98.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	3rd	43.3 M	41.8 M	+1.5 M	96.54%
Wet Handling	1st	69.7 s			100%
Wet Circle	2nd	11.13 s	11.11 s	+0.02 s	99.82%
Straight Aqua	2nd	75.9 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-0.7 Km/H	99.09%

Comfort

84.3%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	4th	7 Points	10 Points	-3 Points	70%
Noise	2nd	68 dB	67 dB	+1 dB	98.53%

Value

96.2%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	1st	50000 KM			100%
Value	1st	13.3 Price/1000			100%
Rolling Resistance	3rd	8.35 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1 kg / t	88.02%
Abrasion	2nd	0.088 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	0 mm/1000km	96.59%

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2^nd

Continental PremiumContact 7

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/72
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 9.6 kgs
• Tread: 7.2 mm
• Price: 675.00

In dry conditions, the Continental delivers performance nearly matching dedicated sports tires while providing the best ride comfort in the test. It offers high safety reserves and excellent road feel despite its touring tire designation. On wet roads, it truly shines with the shortest braking distance and predictable, secure handling even in extreme situations. Its consistent grip inspires confidence in all conditions. The Continental achieves an impressive balance between outstanding wet safety, good handling dynamics, and excellent comfort, proving that a touring tire can compete with UHP models while excelling in everyday usability.

Dry

98.7%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	4th	33.6 M	33 M	+0.6 M	98.21%
Dry Handling	4th	69.3 s	68.7 s	+0.6 s	99.13%

Wet

97.8%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	1st	41.8 M			100%
Wet Handling	3rd	70.2 s	69.7 s	+0.5 s	99.29%
Wet Circle	7th	11.52 s	11.11 s	+0.41 s	96.44%
Straight Aqua	8th	73.2 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-3.4 Km/H	95.56%

Comfort

97.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	1st	10 Points			100%
Noise	7th	70 dB	67 dB	+3 dB	95.71%

Value

84.3%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	3rd	42500 KM	50000 KM	-7500 KM	85%
Value	5th	15.88 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+2.58 Price/1000	83.75%
Rolling Resistance	2nd	8.25 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+0.9 kg / t	89.09%
Abrasion	5th	0.107 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.02 mm/1000km	79.44%

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3^rd

Bridgestone Potenza Sport

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: D/A/70
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10.6 kgs
• Tread: 6.6 mm
• Price: 630.00

The Bridgestone delivers the shortest dry braking distance and highest slalom speed, demonstrating its sporty character. This comes with firmer ride quality and higher rolling resistance that affects efficiency. In wet conditions, it provides exceptional grip with mild transitions during weight shifts and outstanding front-end precision. The Bridgestone's Japanese engineering emphasizes maximum performance and feedback at the expense of comfort and efficiency, making it the driver's choice. Despite being slightly less balanced than the top two finishers, it delivers the best price-performance ratio for enthusiasts seeking maximum driving engagement.

Dry

99.7%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	1st	33 M			100%
Dry Handling	3rd	69.1 s	68.7 s	+0.4 s	99.42%

Wet

98.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	2nd	42.5 M	41.8 M	+0.7 M	98.35%
Wet Handling	2nd	69.9 s	69.7 s	+0.2 s	99.71%
Wet Circle	1st	11.11 s			100%
Straight Aqua	7th	73.7 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-2.9 Km/H	96.21%

Comfort

77.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	8th	6 Points	10 Points	-4 Points	60%
Noise	7th	70 dB	67 dB	+3 dB	95.71%

Value

74.1%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	5th	35000 KM	50000 KM	-15000 KM	70%
Value	8th	18 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+4.7 Price/1000	73.89%
Rolling Resistance	10th	10.15 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+2.8 kg / t	72.41%
Abrasion	4th	0.106 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.02 mm/1000km	80.19%

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4^th

Michelin Pilot Sport 5

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/72
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10.2 kgs
• Tread: 7.4 mm
• Price: 750.00

On dry pavement, the Michelin feels secure and stable but not as dynamic as the top performers. It delivers good grip in fast corners but understeers earlier than the sportiest contenders. Wet performance is characterized by balanced, predictable behavior and strong resistance to aquaplaning, though braking distances are merely good rather than exceptional. The Michelin follows brand tradition with minimal wear and excellent longevity, but its higher noise levels and average efficiency hold it back slightly. It prioritizes consistent performance throughout a long service life over maximum initial grip, appealing to high-mileage drivers seeking reliability and durability.

Dry

98.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	3rd	33.5 M	33 M	+0.5 M	98.51%
Dry Handling	7th	69.6 s	68.7 s	+0.9 s	98.71%

Wet

97.7%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	4th	44.4 M	41.8 M	+2.6 M	94.14%
Wet Handling	5th	70.8 s	69.7 s	+1.1 s	98.45%
Wet Circle	4th	11.2 s	11.11 s	+0.09 s	99.2%
Straight Aqua	3rd	75.7 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-0.9 Km/H	98.83%

Comfort

82.2%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	4th	7 Points	10 Points	-3 Points	70%
Noise	10th	71 dB	67 dB	+4 dB	94.37%

Value

88.2%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	2nd	45000 KM	50000 KM	-5000 KM	90%
Value	6th	16.67 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+3.37 Price/1000	79.78%
Rolling Resistance	7th	8.85 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.5 kg / t	83.05%
Abrasion	1st	0.085 mm/1000km			100%

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5^th

Pirelli P Zero PZ4

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/67
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 9.8 kgs
• Tread: 7.3 mm
• Price: 695.00

The Pirelli demonstrates excellent dry handling with sharp steering response and good braking performance. It feels balanced and neutral but with slightly less comfort than ideal. In wet conditions, it delivers good overall grip despite falling somewhat behind the class leaders in braking. The tire provides fine feedback and neutral balance even in challenging wet conditions. While Pirelli has improved the P Zero's efficiency, its higher wear rate and shorter lifespan make it less economical over time. This fourth-generation model shows its age against newer designs but still delivers engaging handling for enthusiasts willing to accept its shorter life and higher long-term costs.

Dry

98.1%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	6th	33.9 M	33 M	+0.9 M	97.35%
Dry Handling	6th	69.5 s	68.7 s	+0.8 s	98.85%

Wet

96.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	5th	45.2 M	41.8 M	+3.4 M	92.48%
Wet Handling	3rd	70.2 s	69.7 s	+0.5 s	99.29%
Wet Circle	3rd	11.18 s	11.11 s	+0.07 s	99.37%
Straight Aqua	9th	73 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-3.6 Km/H	95.3%

Comfort

78.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	8th	6 Points	10 Points	-4 Points	60%
Noise	4th	69 dB	67 dB	+2 dB	97.1%

Value

67.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	6th	32500 KM	50000 KM	-17500 KM	65%
Value	10th	21.38 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+8.08 Price/1000	62.21%
Rolling Resistance	4th	8.6 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.25 kg / t	85.47%
Abrasion	9th	0.147 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.06 mm/1000km	57.82%

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6^th

Vredestein Ultrac Pro

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/72
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10.1 kgs
• Tread: 7.4 mm
• Price: 580.00

On dry surfaces, the Vredestein delivers average performance across all metrics without any standout strengths or notable weaknesses. Its wet weather behavior is mixed – while offering class-leading aquaplaning resistance, it struggles with braking performance on wet roads. The Vredestein handles predictably but without the precision or feedback of premium competitors. It runs quietly and provides good comfort, making it pleasant for everyday use. The Dutch tire represents solid middle-ground value with reasonable wear characteristics and efficiency, best suited for drivers seeking balanced all-weather capability at a more affordable price point than premium brands.

Dry

96.5%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	8th	35 M	33 M	+2 M	94.29%
Dry Handling	7th	69.6 s	68.7 s	+0.9 s	98.71%

Wet

94.8%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	7th	47.3 M	41.8 M	+5.5 M	88.37%
Wet Handling	6th	72.6 s	69.7 s	+2.9 s	96.01%
Wet Circle	8th	11.71 s	11.11 s	+0.6 s	94.88%
Straight Aqua	1st	76.6 Km/H			100%

Comfort

84.3%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	4th	7 Points	10 Points	-3 Points	70%
Noise	2nd	68 dB	67 dB	+1 dB	98.53%

Value

75%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	6th	32500 KM	50000 KM	-17500 KM	65%
Value	7th	17.85 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+4.55 Price/1000	74.51%
Rolling Resistance	7th	8.85 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.5 kg / t	83.05%
Abrasion	6th	0.11 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.03 mm/1000km	77.27%

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7^th

Toyo Proxes Sport 2

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: D/A/72
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10 kgs
• Tread: 7.2 mm
• Price: 570.00

The Toyo excels in dry conditions with the fastest handling time and impressive agility. It brakes well and provides good feedback to the driver, matching premium tires for dynamic handling. However, wet performance reveals its limitations – while braking is acceptable, it reacts nervously to load changes, reducing confidence in challenging conditions. This Japanese offering presents a specialized character: exceptional dry-weather dynamics at a competitive price point, but with compromises in wet safety and longevity. It's well-suited for enthusiasts in drier climates who prioritize handling response over all-weather versatility.

Dry

99.1%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	4th	33.6 M	33 M	+0.6 M	98.21%
Dry Handling	1st	68.7 s			100%

Wet

95.3%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	6th	46.6 M	41.8 M	+4.8 M	89.7%
Wet Handling	7th	72.8 s	69.7 s	+3.1 s	95.74%
Wet Circle	5th	11.37 s	11.11 s	+0.26 s	97.71%
Straight Aqua	5th	75.2 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-1.4 Km/H	98.17%

Comfort

82.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	4th	7 Points	10 Points	-3 Points	70%
Noise	7th	70 dB	67 dB	+3 dB	95.71%

Value

70.7%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	8th	30000 KM	50000 KM	-20000 KM	60%
Value	9th	19 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+5.7 Price/1000	70%
Rolling Resistance	6th	8.8 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.45 kg / t	83.52%
Abrasion	7th	0.123 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.04 mm/1000km	69.11%

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8^th

Falken Azenis FK520

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/A/70
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10.1 kgs
• Tread: 7 mm
• Price: 575.00

The Falken struggles with precision on dry roads, requiring larger steering inputs and feeling less stable than competitors during dynamic maneuvers. In wet conditions, deficiencies become more apparent with longer braking distances and understeer, though it does offer excellent lateral aquaplaning resistance. The tire's saving grace is its good durability and relatively low wear rate. The aging design shows its limitations against newer competitors, particularly in handling precision and wet grip. While offering reasonable value through longevity, its performance compromises are too significant to recommend for drivers who frequently encounter wet conditions.

Dry

97.7%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	7th	34.2 M	33 M	+1.2 M	96.49%
Dry Handling	5th	69.4 s	68.7 s	+0.7 s	98.99%

Wet

93.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	8th	48.2 M	41.8 M	+6.4 M	86.72%
Wet Handling	8th	74 s	69.7 s	+4.3 s	94.19%
Wet Circle	6th	11.51 s	11.11 s	+0.4 s	96.52%
Straight Aqua	4th	75.3 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-1.3 Km/H	98.3%

Comfort

88.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	2nd	8 Points	10 Points	-2 Points	80%
Noise	4th	69 dB	67 dB	+2 dB	97.1%

Value

85.9%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	4th	40000 KM	50000 KM	-10000 KM	80%
Value	2nd	14.38 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+1.08 Price/1000	92.49%
Rolling Resistance	5th	8.7 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.35 kg / t	84.48%
Abrasion	3rd	0.098 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.01 mm/1000km	86.73%

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9^th

Triangle EffeXSport

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: C/B/72
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 10.2 kgs
• Tread: 7 mm
• Price: 310.00

On dry roads, the Triangle exhibits low grip levels with vague steering feel and significantly longer braking distances. Wet performance is concerning, with poor braking, uncertain handling, and nervous response to load changes. Despite offering acceptable aquaplaning resistance, overall wet safety is compromised. The Chinese budget tire suffers from rapid wear and short life expectancy, negating much of its price advantage over time. The Triangle demonstrates why focusing solely on purchase price can be misleading – its safety compromises and poor longevity make it difficult to recommend even at its lower price point.

Dry

94.2%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	9th	36.1 M	33 M	+3.1 M	91.41%
Dry Handling	9th	70.9 s	68.7 s	+2.2 s	96.9%

Wet

91%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	9th	52 M	41.8 M	+10.2 M	80.38%
Wet Handling	9th	74.9 s	69.7 s	+5.2 s	93.06%
Wet Circle	9th	11.93 s	11.11 s	+0.82 s	93.13%
Straight Aqua	6th	74.7 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-1.9 Km/H	97.52%

Comfort

78.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	8th	6 Points	10 Points	-4 Points	60%
Noise	4th	69 dB	67 dB	+2 dB	97.1%

Value

63.2%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	9th	20000 KM	50000 KM	-30000 KM	40%
Value	4th	15.5 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+2.2 Price/1000	85.81%
Rolling Resistance	9th	9.05 kg / t	7.35 kg / t	+1.7 kg / t	81.22%
Abrasion	10th	0.185 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.1 mm/1000km	45.95%

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10^th

Mastersteel Super Sport 2

225/45 R18 95Y

• EU Label: B/B/70
• 3PMSF: no
• Weight: 9.6 kgs
• Tread: 7.3 mm
• Price: 300.00

The Mastersteel shows substantial limitations on dry roads with the longest braking distances and least precise handling in the test. Wet performance is critically deficient across all metrics, scoring poorly in every wet test and presenting potential safety concerns. Its only genuine advantages are low rolling resistance for better fuel economy and quiet operation. This budget option illustrates the significant trade-offs at the lowest price point – while initially inexpensive, its extremely short lifespan, poor grip, and compromised safety characteristics make it the least economical choice over time and difficult to recommend for any regular use case.

Dry

92.8%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Dry Braking	10th	36.9 M	33 M	+3.9 M	89.43%
Dry Handling	10th	71.5 s	68.7 s	+2.8 s	96.08%

Wet

87.6%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wet Braking	10th	52.7 M	41.8 M	+10.9 M	79.32%
Wet Handling	10th	77 s	69.7 s	+7.3 s	90.52%
Wet Circle	10th	12.58 s	11.11 s	+1.47 s	88.31%
Straight Aqua	10th	70.8 Km/H	76.6 Km/H	-5.8 Km/H	92.43%

Comfort

90%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Subj. Comfort	2nd	8 Points	10 Points	-2 Points	80%
Noise	1st	67 dB			100%

Value

73.1%

Test	#	Result	Best	Diff	%
Wear	9th	20000 KM	50000 KM	-30000 KM	40%
Value	3rd	15 Price/1000	13.3 Price/1000	+1.7 Price/1000	88.67%
Rolling Resistance	1st	7.35 kg / t			100%
Abrasion	8th	0.133 mm/1000km	0.085 mm/1000km	+0.05 mm/1000km	63.91%

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