On test are eight patterns of tires, with four premium brands, one mid range brands and three budget brands. As 20" tires are still relatively low volume, the patterns used can be previous generation, with only Continental represented by their latest tire from the premium brands.
The test vehicle was a VW Scirocco fitted with 245/30 R20 tires. With the price difference between a full set of premium tires and budget tires nearly 400 euros (800 vs 1200 euros), fitting the budget tires can be tempting, until you realise the worst budget tire will take over 3 car lengths longer in the wet to stop from a moderate speed, and is extremely unpredictable on the limit, switching between under and oversteer.
Unfortunately we've not yet been able to get a breakdown score of this test, so take your time to read the comments on each tire.
The Results
Top class sports tires, stable running and high steering precision in the wet. Strong aquaplaning resistance and short braking.
Moderate ride comfort.
Stable all rounder with reliable wet and dry handling. Good braking and good comfort.
Average aquaplaning resistance.
Good handling and excellent braking on dry roads, high precision steering with good feedback. Quiet pass by noise.
Weakness in curved aquaplaning.
Wet weather specialist with dynamic handling qualities, excellent aquaplaning resistance. High steering precision, short wet and dry braking.
Increased rolling resistance.
Well balanced sports tire, stable corning on wet and dry roads, high steering precision and good feedback.
Slightly increased rolling resistance.
Good curved aquaplaning, neutral handling.
Slightly increased rolling resistance.
Low rolling resistance.
Dangerously long braking distance in the wet, wet understeer, reduced steering precision, loud and uncomfortable.
Also known as the Westlake SV308. Quiet pass by noise.
Dangerously long braking distance in the wet, unpredictable wet oversteer, uncomfortable.