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.

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 31,069 miles 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 12,427 miles 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 108ft, while the Mastersteel Super Sport 2 needed 121ft - 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 137ft, while the Mastersteel required a concerning 173ft - 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 47.6 mph while the Mastersteel lost grip at just 44.0 mph.

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 31,069 miles while budget options like Triangle and Mastersteel managed just 12,427 miles - 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 XL

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.

Dry99.5%

Wet98.8%

Comfort84.3%

Value95.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	2nd / 10	109 ft	+1 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	2nd / 10	68.8 s	+0.10 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	3rd / 10	142 ft	+5 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	1st / 10	69.7 s	Best in this discipline
Wet CircleLower is better	2nd / 10	11.13 s	+0.02 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	2nd / 10	47.2 mph	-0.4 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	4th / 10	7 Points	-3.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	2nd / 10	68 dB	+1.00 dB
WearHigher is better	1st / 10	31,069 miles	Best in this discipline
ValueLower is better	1st / 10	13.3 Price/1000	Best in this discipline
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	3rd / 10	8.35 kg/t	+1.00 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	2nd / 10	0.088 mm/1000km	0.00 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/A/70

Weight

10 kgs

Tread

6.9 mm

Price

665.00

2^nd

Continental PremiumContact 7

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry98.7%

Wet98.2%

Comfort97.9%

Value84.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	4th / 10	110 ft	+2 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	4th / 10	69.3 s	+0.60 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	1st / 10	137 ft	Best in this discipline
Wet HandlingLower is better	3rd / 10	70.2 s	+0.50 s
Wet CircleLower is better	7th / 10	11.52 s	+0.41 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	8th / 10	45.5 mph	-2.1 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	1st / 10	10 Points	Best in this discipline
NoiseLower is better	7th / 10	70 dB	+3.00 dB
WearHigher is better	3rd / 10	26,408 miles	-4,661 miles
ValueLower is better	5th / 10	15.88 Price/1000	+2.58 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	2nd / 10	8.25 kg/t	+0.90 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	5th / 10	0.107 mm/1000km	+0.02 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/A/72

Weight

9.6 kgs

Tread

7.2 mm

Price

675.00

3^rd

Bridgestone Potenza Sport

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry99.7%

Wet98.9%

Comfort77.9%

Value73.7%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	1st / 10	108 ft	Best in this discipline
Dry HandlingLower is better	3rd / 10	69.1 s	+0.40 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	2nd / 10	139 ft	+2 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	2nd / 10	69.9 s	+0.20 s
Wet CircleLower is better	1st / 10	11.11 s	Best in this discipline
Straight AquaHigher is better	7th / 10	45.8 mph	-1.8 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	8th / 10	6 Points	-4.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	7th / 10	70 dB	+3.00 dB
WearHigher is better	5th / 10	21,748 miles	-9,321 miles
ValueLower is better	8th / 10	18 Price/1000	+4.70 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	10th / 10	10.15 kg/t	+2.80 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	4th / 10	0.106 mm/1000km	+0.02 mm/1000km

EU Label

D/A/70

Weight

10.6 kgs

Tread

6.6 mm

Price

630.00

4^th

Michelin Pilot Sport 5

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry98.6%

Wet97.5%

Comfort82.2%

Value87.9%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	3rd / 10	110 ft	+2 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	7th / 10	69.6 s	+0.90 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	4th / 10	146 ft	+9 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	5th / 10	70.8 s	+1.10 s
Wet CircleLower is better	4th / 10	11.2 s	+0.09 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	3rd / 10	47.0 mph	-0.6 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	4th / 10	7 Points	-3.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	10th / 10	71 dB	+4.00 dB
WearHigher is better	2nd / 10	27,962 miles	-3,107 miles
ValueLower is better	6th / 10	16.67 Price/1000	+3.37 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	7th / 10	8.85 kg/t	+1.50 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	1st / 10	0.085 mm/1000km	Best in this discipline

EU Label

C/A/72

Weight

10.2 kgs

Tread

7.4 mm

Price

750.00

5^th

Pirelli P Zero PZ4

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry98.1%

Wet96.8%

Comfort78.6%

Value68.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	6th / 10	111 ft	+3 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	6th / 10	69.5 s	+0.80 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	5th / 10	148 ft	+11 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	3rd / 10	70.2 s	+0.50 s
Wet CircleLower is better	3rd / 10	11.18 s	+0.07 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	9th / 10	45.4 mph	-2.2 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	8th / 10	6 Points	-4.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	4th / 10	69 dB	+2.00 dB
WearHigher is better	6th / 10	20,195 miles	-10,874 miles
ValueLower is better	10th / 10	21.38 Price/1000	+8.08 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	4th / 10	8.6 kg/t	+1.25 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	9th / 10	0.147 mm/1000km	+0.06 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/A/67

Weight

9.8 kgs

Tread

7.3 mm

Price

695.00

6^th

Vredestein Ultrac Pro

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry96.5%

Wet94%

Comfort84.3%

Value74.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	8th / 10	115 ft	+7 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	7th / 10	69.6 s	+0.90 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	7th / 10	155 ft	+18 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	6th / 10	72.6 s	+2.90 s
Wet CircleLower is better	8th / 10	11.71 s	+0.60 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	1st / 10	47.6 mph	Best in this discipline
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	4th / 10	7 Points	-3.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	2nd / 10	68 dB	+1.00 dB
WearHigher is better	6th / 10	20,195 miles	-10,874 miles
ValueLower is better	7th / 10	17.85 Price/1000	+4.55 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	7th / 10	8.85 kg/t	+1.50 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	6th / 10	0.11 mm/1000km	+0.03 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/A/72

Weight

10.1 kgs

Tread

7.4 mm

Price

580.00

7^th

Toyo Proxes Sport 2

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry99.1%

Wet94.9%

Comfort82.9%

Value70.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	4th / 10	110 ft	+2 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	1st / 10	68.7 s	Best in this discipline
Wet BrakingLower is better	6th / 10	153 ft	+16 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	7th / 10	72.8 s	+3.10 s
Wet CircleLower is better	5th / 10	11.37 s	+0.26 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	5th / 10	46.7 mph	-0.9 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	4th / 10	7 Points	-3.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	7th / 10	70 dB	+3.00 dB
WearHigher is better	8th / 10	18,641 miles	-12,428 miles
ValueLower is better	9th / 10	19 Price/1000	+5.70 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	6th / 10	8.8 kg/t	+1.45 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	7th / 10	0.123 mm/1000km	+0.04 mm/1000km

EU Label

D/A/72

Weight

10 kgs

Tread

7.2 mm

Price

570.00

8^th

Falken Azenis FK520

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry97.7%

Wet93.2%

Comfort88.6%

Value85.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	7th / 10	112 ft	+4 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	5th / 10	69.4 s	+0.70 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	8th / 10	158 ft	+21 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	8th / 10	74 s	+4.30 s
Wet CircleLower is better	6th / 10	11.51 s	+0.40 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	4th / 10	46.8 mph	-0.8 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 10	8 Points	-2.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	4th / 10	69 dB	+2.00 dB
WearHigher is better	4th / 10	24,855 miles	-6,214 miles
ValueLower is better	2nd / 10	14.38 Price/1000	+1.08 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	5th / 10	8.7 kg/t	+1.35 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	3rd / 10	0.098 mm/1000km	+0.01 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/A/70

Weight

10.1 kgs

Tread

7 mm

Price

575.00

9^th

Triangle EffeXSport

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry94.2%

Wet90%

Comfort78.6%

Value62.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	9th / 10	118 ft	+10 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	9th / 10	70.9 s	+2.20 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	9th / 10	171 ft	+34 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	9th / 10	74.9 s	+5.20 s
Wet CircleLower is better	9th / 10	11.93 s	+0.82 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	6th / 10	46.4 mph	-1.2 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	8th / 10	6 Points	-4.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	4th / 10	69 dB	+2.00 dB
WearHigher is better	9th / 10	12,427 miles	-18,642 miles
ValueLower is better	4th / 10	15.5 Price/1000	+2.20 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	9th / 10	9.05 kg/t	+1.70 kg/t
AbrasionLower is better	10th / 10	0.185 mm/1000km	+0.10 mm/1000km

EU Label

C/B/72

Weight

10.2 kgs

Tread

7 mm

Price

310.00

10^th

Mastersteel Super Sport 2

225/45 R18 95Y XL

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.

Dry92.8%

Wet86.9%

Comfort90%

Value72.6%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (12)

Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.

Test	Position in discipline	Result	Gap to best
Dry BrakingLower is better	10th / 10	121 ft	+13 ft
Dry HandlingLower is better	10th / 10	71.5 s	+2.80 s
Wet BrakingLower is better	10th / 10	173 ft	+36 ft
Wet HandlingLower is better	10th / 10	77 s	+7.30 s
Wet CircleLower is better	10th / 10	12.58 s	+1.47 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	10th / 10	44.0 mph	-3.6 mph
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 10	8 Points	-2.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	1st / 10	67 dB	Best in this discipline
WearHigher is better	9th / 10	12,427 miles	-18,642 miles
ValueLower is better	3rd / 10	15 Price/1000	+1.70 Price/1000
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	1st / 10	7.35 kg/t	Best in this discipline
AbrasionLower is better	8th / 10	0.133 mm/1000km	+0.05 mm/1000km

EU Label

B/B/70

Weight

9.6 kgs

Tread

7.3 mm

Price

300.00