The best summer tires. The best summer tires Kumho Solus HS51: engineering above all
We're going into the summer. Eleven sets of summer tires of size 185/60 R14 for Lada cars and other compact tires | Speed index T (190 km/h) and H (210 km/h) | Authors Sergey Mishin and 3P tire test group and auto review
Modest 14-inch tires are no longer held in high esteem by manufacturers. Even budget cars 15-inch shoes are often worn out. Therefore, one cannot expect explosive premieres in this size: emerging new products are created mainly by scaling larger tires intended for expensive cars with larger diameter wheels. But every cloud has a silver lining: the less investment in development, the lower the price. By the way, it has already appeared.
There are no absolute new products this year, but our test still includes fresh tires. We're testing the Bridgestone Ecopia EP150, Toyo Proxes CF2 and Matador Stella 2 for the first time. The rest are also of interest because they running models. Prices are given taking into account winter inflationary vicissitudes.
We carried out tests near Togliatti, at the AVTOVAZ testing ground, ironing its roads with one of the most popular domestic platforms: the aggregate carrier was a 106-horsepower, yes, yes, Priora, equipped anti-lock braking system. According to our observations, some shortcomings in the car’s behavior can be compensated for by installing high-quality tires.
The air temperature was 20-25С.
First line
Let's start with the most expensive ones. ContiPremiumContact 5 tires sell for 2,655 rubles apiece. Not cheap! As if justifying the price, they took first place with 927 points. Among the main advantages are the high speed at the changeover and a short braking distance: one meter less than its nearest competitor when slowing down on wet asphalt from a speed of 80 km/h and as much as three meters less when braking in dry conditions from 100 km/h.
Nokian Hakka Green goes for 2380 rubles. Born in Finland, made in Russia. Fresh tire: in terms of development and market launch time, comparable to the ContiPremiumContact 5 model. The “green” tire scored 926 points, losing only one point to Conti. A good product. Moreover, the Hakka is balanced differently than the Conti: a car on such tires has clearer behavior during extreme maneuvering and high directional stability at high speed, as well as good feedback.
The Bridgestone Ecopia EP150 is new to us, although this model has been in the manufacturer’s lineup for several years. Price – 2370 rubles. For her 11th place (835 points) in our test, this is too much! Ecopia EP150 demonstrates the weakest “grip” when braking: the difference with the leader is almost four meters on wet asphalt and almost five on dry. This is the length of Priora!
It’s better to forget about quick lane changes: quick maneuvers will backfire – in the literal sense of the word. The only bonus is modest fuel consumption in suburban mode. Perhaps the reason for the failure lies in the place of production? These tires came from Thailand, and tires labeled Made in Japan always performed better.
Modesty is not a vice
In the line of more modest tires, as in the top row, there are also weaklings that they strive to sell at a higher price and vice versa.
For the Japanese new Toyo Proxes CF2 they ask for 2180 rubles. And she scored 907 points in our test and took a worthy third place.
Tires with good braking properties also provide the possibility of confident extreme maneuvering - just like the Nokian Hakka Green model. You will only have to sacrifice comfort: soft and quiet tire you can't name it.
Tires are sold for 2165 rubles BFGoodrich g-Grip with Michelin pedigree. That is, apparently, why they are sold at a higher price, despite the “slower” speed index T (190 km/h). There are no obvious failures, but in all respects this mid-level DOS bus falls slightly short. In our tests it takes only seventh position, with 870 points.
Model Formula Energy, developed by Pirelli, is offered for 2150 rubles. But this tire cannot be tied to a racing formula; it cannot be called energetic: it is not suitable for extreme maneuvering. To keep the car in turns, extraordinary skill will be required from the driver. Although on a straight line the tires hold the car well even at high speed. As a result - 876 points and eighth place together with domestic tires Cordiant.
The Korean Hankook Kinergy Eco tire (2,135 rubles per piece) has average characteristics. There are no failures, but there are no ups either. However, based on the totality of all indicators, she scored 888 points and took sixth place.
Russian Cordiant is sold for 2135 rubles. The characteristics of the Road Runner model are close to Formula tire Energy: inferior to it in course clarity and comfort, but provides more distinct controllability in extreme conditions. 867 points, eighth place in the rating.
Almost for nothing
And now we have dropped to the level of 2000 rubles per wheel. It turns out that even for that kind of money you can buy good tires - for example, Yokohama BluEarth. Japanese Yoko always offers its tires 15% cheaper than main competitor, which is Bridgestone, despite the fact that its characteristics are sometimes much higher. For example, in our Yoko test we got the most low consumption fuel at 90 km/h. Result – 889 points and fifth place.
For the Nokian Nordman, which our motorists love, they are asking 1,970 rubles. The price-quality ratio is one of the best in our tests: 905 points and fourth place! (We consider a score above 900 points to be a criterion for excellent tires.) The car's controllability in extreme conditions is excellent.
Matador Stella 2 tires with a speed index T (190 km/h) are offered for 1,800 rubles. You will have to force yourself to drive on these tires without haste and with an increased distance, since Stella has very modest braking properties(however, 1-3 meters better than the Bridgestone tire). And sudden lane changes should be excluded: in any situation the steering wheel must be operated softly and smoothly. As compensation - fuel economy at any speed.
The second line includes mid-price tires: BFGoodrich, Sava, Gislaved, Matador, Formula, as well as tires from fast-growing companies such as Yokohama, Hankook, Toyo and other Asian manufacturers.
Field players
Who participates in our tests? First of all, tires from leading manufacturers. This is the so-called Top Five, the top five: Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Continental and Pirelli. Another important player is the Finnish company Nokian Tires: the capacity of its plant in St. Petersburg will soon reach 18 million tires per year. In total, these six forwards sell for Russian market the lion's share of all passenger cars.
In defense - budget tires, including domestic ones, for example, Cordiant. We also carefully study the tires of young Chinese companies: they do not make a difference on the field, but sometimes we take them into our tests - what if a brilliant newcomer appears and beats everyone?
Brake already
How do we measure braking distance? First of all, we limit the braking zone with cones. To obtain reliable results, it is important that all tires brake along the same path. We braked six to eight times on “technological” tires until the results began to repeat (stabilize), thus clearing the braking lane.
We measure the braking distance using a special Vbox measuring system based on GPS. Measurement accuracy – 1 cm.
On a dry road, we measure the braking distance of a car at a speed of 100 km/h. This is the most modern technique. After all, “weaving” is the real speed of movement on a country highway. The car enters the stop at a speed of 103-105 km/h. The driver depresses the clutch and hits the brake pedal at the same point (marked by cones) to avoid extreme displacement along the trajectory.
The tester determines the speed of the car not by the needle of the standard speedometer, but by digital indicators at the time of the Vbox complex.
We measure the braking distance not when the car comes to a complete stop, but until the moment when the speed drops to 5 km/h. This allows you to avoid variations in the results associated with incorrect operation of the ABS at low speeds, which often leads to prolonged wheel locking. The number of brakes for each set of tires is eight.
After each test, it is necessary to cool the brakes, so we drive to the starting point using engine braking or coasting.
When processing the results, we discard the outlier values (if the deviation is more than 2%), and for the remaining ones we calculate the arithmetic mean.
On a wet road, the procedure for preparing, taking measurements and processing the results is the same, but braking from 80 km/h. We water the strip intensively both in the braking area and in front of it (8-10 meters) - so that the tires have time to get wet.
Winter tire tests:
A total of 13 models were selected for testing winter tires, of which three are new this year. For the first time, there was an opportunity to try out the Continental IceContact 3 and Velcro tires Blizzak Ice and Observe GSi-6 from Japanese companies Bridgestone and Toyo. Unfortunately, Michelin at the last moment refused to provide its new product X-Ice North.
A test of a dozen sets of friction tires measuring 195/65 R15 gave very interesting results! Three models are not suitable for all cars, and we do not recommend buying one at all.
We took tires from different price groups - from 2470 to 5150 rubles per piece. Latest model -Toyo Observe GSi-6, launched on the market this season. There are two new products from last year: the German Continental VikingContact 7 and the Finnish Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3. The Russian-made Pirelli Ice Zero FR was updated last year.
Well, we had to come to Sweden twice. The first time we sat there for a week, running the entire test program on snow and ice. And then, already in April, on the roads that had just been cleared of ice, they measured the braking distance on wet and dry asphalt - and assessed the acoustic comfort and smoothness of the ride. Well, then, using the traditional system of converting results into points, we summed up the results.
In the next big stud test, we collected six sets of 15-inch tires from Western and Eastern manufacturers. Some have experience and the latest technologies among their trump cards, others have the will to win and affordable prices. Whose will he take?
This time we chose one of the most popular sizes - 195/65 R15, which suits many small and inexpensive cars. Different markets, different understanding of the product, different design schools. What distinguishes tires from the East and West from each other, what are their strengths and weak sides and what should the Russian buyer pay attention to?
Summer tire tests:
Recently, the sizes of tires in the original equipment of cars have increased significantly. The time for R13 175/70 tires for Zhigulis has passed; now “huge bast shoes” are the priority. This is due to the latest trends in the world and the increased demand for SUV cars. Let's take a look at the test in which Autoreview employees tested Tiguan's native sizes 215/65 R17 and 255/45 R19. In the first size there were 6 models on the starting grid, in the second size there were 5 models.
Models in different sizes differ, because Most large tires are made in UHP format. These changes are dictated by the sporty style of large wheel sizes.
The cheaper the tires, the easier the choice? No, it’s more difficult! We tested twelve sets of summer tires with dimensions 185/60 R14 for the most available cars. And they not only put all the participants in their places, but also found out what an attempt to save money on a purchase could result in.
185/60 R14 tires are usually purchased by owners of Lada cars and older foreign cars. For tire manufacturers, small sizes are not of great interest due to low profitability. Decent new products in this segment are very rare. However, tire manufacturers who seriously care about their image try from year to year to improve, although familiar, but quite successful models.
We are experiencing summer tires size 195/65 R15 for relatively inexpensive cars and see how their characteristics have changed dramatically over the past ten years.
Nowadays even small and inexpensive cars roll off the assembly line on 15-inch wheels. Many Russians and quite expensive cars they put “tags” with a higher profile - on our roads they are preferable. Tire manufacturers, for whom income depends more on the standard sizes of tires sold than on their quantity, are indifferent to budget dimensions. New products are offered at least in the “seventeen-inch” segment, and small sizes are sluggishly updated, usually slightly reducing rolling resistance.
Nevertheless, there are companies for which the Russian market is very important, and they are literally fighting for leading positions, annually “polishing” their products, trying to get ahead of competitors in adhesion properties on dry and wet surfaces. Therefore, there is always intrigue in our tests.
Barum Bravuris 2:
with checkers in the form of shark fins
This tire will look great on family car, and on a car retouched by tuning. She has a catchy asymmetrical pattern tread with dense blocks in the outer shoulder zone, which ensure stable handling and safe braking on dry roads, and rollickingly curved blocks in the inner zone. They, together with shark fin-shaped checkers, reduce the risk of aquaplaning and provide reliable braking on wet roads. Add here four wide longitudinal channels - and it becomes clear that the tire’s water resistance is fine. And how impressive one of the ribs of the central zone looks, as if lined with the letters “M”! The tire successfully resists wear thanks to its optimized profile and the newest line-up rubber using silica.
The tire is available in a wide range of sizes and prices. For the 185/55 R15 N (210 km/h) option you have to pay about 3000 rubles, which is generally inexpensive for such a model, but if you have huge rollers, say 255/35 R20 Y (300 km/h), – don’t skimp on RUR 11,900. (for one wheel, of course).
Sava Intensa UHP:
combination of incongruous
The very combination of the concepts “budget” and “ultra-high-speed” (that is, UHP) is already unusual. But this model for sports and premium cars really combines an extraordinary (in its price category, of course) handling on dry and wet roads with a high level of comfort. The wide tread provides optimal pressure distribution and a large contact patch, while the massive central rib and rigid shoulder blocks help your back stay dry when cornering. Four wide longitudinal channels quickly remove water, and thanks to the special formula of the silica-based rubber compound, it adheres perfectly to wet roads. The tire frame is made from modern heavy-duty materials that optimally distributes the load across the entire tread width and significantly reduces rolling resistance, which means your car will run less.
All this pleasure is not so inaccessible. For example, the popular size 225/55 R16 W (270 km/h) will cost approximately 4700-5000 rubles. Larger tires, for example 255/35 R18 Y (300 km/h), will cost about 7,300 rubles.
Cordiant Sport 3:
drives on normal roads
The domestic brand, which successfully operates in the B-segment, recently introduced another tire for active driving, as stated in the name itself. Externally, the tire really has all the features of a sports model. This includes the outer shoulder area made of massive blocks, and three solid central ribs, and the inner side, separated by transverse arcuate grooves. All this promises good grip cornering, reliable directional stability and precise steering response. Dry-Cor technology eliminates directional fluctuations and prevents the tire from deforming when turning, maintaining the tire's grip on the road and the stability of the contact patch, as well as preventing drifts and skids. The optimized frame distributes the load for better pressure distribution. The designers also worked on the composition of the rubber mixture under the self-explanatory name Sport-Mix. It is created based on a combination of two rubbers - styrene-butadiene and diene, where the first is responsible for grip, and the second reduces the heating of the tire. But, despite the abundance of beautiful terms in the description, this tire does not belong to the category of truly sports tires and is not suitable for track days, although it makes it possible to drive with pleasure on ordinary roads.
Tire prices are quite reasonable. Option 195/65 R15 V (240 km/h) can be found from 2000 rubles. Running size 225/55 R16 V will cost from 4800 rubles.
Tigar Syneris:
so contradictory
Of the inexpensive high-speed models, this is perhaps the most controversial. Let's start with the fact that she looks great. A symmetrical directional tread, two central ribs with checkers resembling the pattern of an arrow's feathers, graceful shoulder blocks cut with curved grooves - all this will decorate any car. This concept is typical for "rain" tires, and this tire really handles well on wet roads. On dry asphalt, it will also delight you with a soft ride, moderate noise and good grip, and at high speed. But you have to pay for pleasure, and this time not with money (the prices here are just fine). But the wear resistance of the tire is, to put it mildly, not the best. If you burn rubber at the start and squeal it in turns, it’s not a fact that it will last more than a couple of seasons.
The common size 205/55 R16 V can be found from about 2,600 rubles, and the largest in the line, 245/45 R18 W (270 km/h), will cost about 11,000 rubles.
Kama Euro-129:
driver's set of qualities
Popular domestic tires, which combines several qualities so necessary for our drivers: strength, catchy design, relatively high speed limit, good handling and low price. The model debuted in 2009 and is still in stable demand. The asymmetrical tread pattern has the outer side providing maximum grip on dry surfaces, while the inner side provides maximum grip on wet surfaces. The outer shoulder blocks are made extra rigid to provide good lateral grip when cornering. At the same time, strong sidewalls guarantee stability under lateral loads and at the same time protect the tire from deformation on the roads of the Russian outback. Three wide longitudinal grooves, as well as specially shaped blocks, help remove water from the contact patch. Another feature is a patented tire wear indicator, which allows you to determine the remaining tread depth and is also capable of identifying camber/alignment problems at the initial stage. We wouldn’t risk calling the tire a sports tire, but that’s for sure that it allows you to drive quickly even on mediocre surfaces.
Even the small size 175/70 R13 starts with a speed index H (210 km/h), and you can buy it from 1,500 rubles. Option 215/60 R16 V (240 km/h) will cost from 2700 rubles.
Kumho Solus HS51:
engineering comes first
This Korean tire looks like a classic sports model: asymmetrical pattern, rounded, almost solid ribs, a deliberate disregard for design - engineering above all. Everything is according to school: the design of the central part of the tire is responsible for the stability of the tire in a straight line, and the impressive shoulder blocks serve for effective cornering and resistance to the car drifting from a given trajectory. The tire is also durable: it is equipped with a steel belt and seamless cord, as well as a reinforced carcass and a reliable bead cord. In the company's line, the Solus brand carries several tires of different quality, so pay attention to the alphanumeric index.
For all its advantages, the model is moderately affordable. Its most compact size 195/50 R15 V starts from 2400 rubles, and the largest, 235/55 R17 W (270 km/h), costs from 6100 rubles.
Federal Super Steel 595:
sports without any reservations
A truly charismatic model, which received the Taiwan Excellence award for quality, has performed well in drifting and rally competitions, a sports tire without any reservations. And she is simply beautiful - the directional V-shaped pattern looks powerful and mesmerizing. But it's not just about aesthetics. The tread blocks evenly distribute pressure over the entire surface of the contact patch, instantly remove water from it, and ensure vehicle stability on a straight line and traction in corners. At the same time, the high qualities of the tire are maintained even as it wears out. The steel cord is responsible for the strength. True, due to this, it weighs a little more than some of its analogues, and if someone is concerned about the characteristics of the unsprung masses, then there is reason to think about it. Otherwise, the tire can promise good acceleration and fast braking, stability on the autobahn and mountain serpentines and good mileage.
The price tag starts from ridiculous for such a set of characteristics - 2600 rubles. (you get size 195/50 R15 V) and comes to about 8100 RUR. (for 275/30 R19 W).
Results
So, let's summarize. Most people expect two qualities from summer tires: low price and tolerable driving properties. But if you are a supporter of gambling and like to go wild, it becomes more difficult to choose. However, you see: there are options. To make your choice even easier, we have put together a visual chart that shows you what you can expect from each model.
Our rating
The article was prepared with the support of the online auto accessories store BestParts.ru
Announcement
Your personal mechanic. Puncture! And the nearest workshop is far away, it’s night time... Have you found yourself in such a situation?
With the onset of a warm period, many motorists are faced with the question of choosing summer tires. This year, not all companies are expecting new products, but a decent selection will be presented in the assortment of each.
BRIDGESTONE
This year Japanese company meets the summer season without any bright new products, but still with a wide range of tires for different cars- from small cars to crossovers and SUVs. For motorists who prefer to save money good choice tires of the ECOPIA family will become. Last year, the ECOPIA EP150 (diameter from 13-15") replaced the popular B250. According to the manufacturer, due to the new composition of the rubber compound and optimization of the shape of the tread blocks, it demonstrates better (compared to its predecessor) performance, mainly economy and efficiency when braking on wet surfaces.
Also this year, due to a reduction in braking distance on wet surfaces by 8.1%, an increased service life and a decrease in the coefficient of rolling friction of the tire, the ECOPIA EP200 (15-18") replaces the previous EP100A. ECOPIA EP200 allows saving up to 12.3% of fuel. Owners SUVs will fit the ECOPIA EP850 with a diameter from 15 to 19".
The sports line of tires is represented by POTENZA models with RunFlat technology. The central “slick” track improves cornering control, three wide longitudinal grooves minimize the likelihood of hydroplaning, and larger blocks on the outside provide additional rigidity.
The optimal balance between efficiency and sporty performance is present in TURANZA tires. She has no credit high level noise, good adhesion properties, long service life.
CONTINENTAL
(banner_adsense-300x250)In 2015 Continental Company introduced the new Conti.eContact, made with an emphasis on efficiency. The growing number of electric vehicles and hybrids prompted the concern to develop a special tire model for these types of cars - not inferior to conventional ones. important characteristics, while having a reduced rolling resistance coefficient.
Perhaps the most universal tire in the line can be called ContiPremiumContact 5 - it can be installed both on a regular city sedan with 14" wheels and on a sports car (the company has received a certificate for driving at speeds of up to 300 km/h). The tire is offered in 60 different versions, and starting this year it is also available for all-wheel drive vehicles. When developing the tread, we used 3D sipe technology, which increases braking efficiency. There are a sufficient number of drainage grooves to prevent aquaplaning, as well as “quiet bridges” that reduce the tire noise level when driving.
The ContiSportContact 5 tires have become even more progressive. Their BlackChili rubber compound, which the manufacturer itself calls intelligent, reduces rolling resistance during normal driving and increases the transmission of force during braking. Maximum precise handling of the tires allows them to be used by lovers of active driving.
Owners of crossovers and SUVs that rarely leave the asphalt should take a closer look at the ContiCrossContact LX 2. Compared to the previous LX model, progress is noticeable in almost all characteristics.
CORDIANT
Cordiant assortment is still relatively inexpensive tires for all occasions. Among the recent new products is Cordiant Sport 3, the next generation of sports tires for fast cars and active drivers. Compared to the second generation of the model, the third generation has improved grip properties due to changes in the composition of the rubber mixture. Much attention was paid to the behavior of the tire in corners: the blocks on the shoulder part of the tread are connected by a low half-bridge, which ensures stability during sudden changes in direction.
Another interesting model is the Road Runner. Its tread has a two-layer design: the upper one, softer, is designed to absorb small road irregularities, and the inner one, accordingly, provides strength. This “differentiated” approach made it possible to achieve a good level of comfort and, at the same time, high “survivability” of the tire on bad roads.
Off-road tires are represented by two models: All-Terrain (for those who often travel both on asphalt and light off-road) and Off-Road, the name of which speaks for itself.
DUNLOP In the Dunlop line, we note the DIREZZA DZ102 tire - the MJ manufacturer recommends it for cars with a claim to “sportiness”. A new innovative rubber compound containing carbon and silica ensures faster heating of the tire, which significantly improves grip and handling from the first minutes of driving. Wide ribs provide stability while variable sized blocks help reduce noise.
Another model, SP Sport LM704, despite the name, is intended for a wide range of cars.
It is quite universal, that is, it performs well in any conditions, on any surface (except, of course, off-road). The tire has an increased contact patch area, which allows it to brake confidently on dry surfaces. In addition, it has a long service life due to optimal pressure distribution over the entire surface.
Dunlop SP Touring T1 is designed for small and medium class passenger cars. New polymers made it possible to provide the tire with both good grip properties and high wear resistance.
GOODYEAR
Goodyear is offering a relatively inexpensive EfficientGrip Performance tire this season that's suitable for most... passenger cars. New structure a rubber compound with a special component to reduce the heating of the tire while driving and reduces rolling resistance. At the same time, the braking distance was reduced by 8% on wet roads and by 3% on dry roads. The dual-layer tread helps ensure consistent tire performance throughout its service life.
Owners of powerful premium crossovers should take a closer look at the Eagle F1 Asymmetric SUV - a tire for active driving, created using a “racing” rubber compound and equipped with special inserts on the sidewalls to improve behavior when cornering and when driving on wet surfaces.
For SUVs, the manufacturer recommends another interesting model: Wrangler Duratrac. Its peculiarity is that the specially selected composition of the rubber mixture not only ensures the resistance of the tread blocks to damage, but also guarantees the possibility of year-round operation of the tire. Proprietary TractiveGroove micro lugs provide good traction and flotation in both deep mud and snow.
HANKOOK
Last spring, Hankook presented the Ventus V12 evo2 tire, created using technologies sports models. Large longitudinal grooves and directional channels between the blocks help quickly get rid of water in the contact patch. By using silicon oxide nanoparticles in the rubber compound, as well as optimizing the rigidity of the blocks across the entire tread width, it was possible to reduce braking distances on wet and dry surfaces by approximately 5% compared to the previous model. And the use of styrene polymers has made it possible to reduce rolling resistance and, accordingly, improve the tire's efficiency indicators.
Another model, Ventus S1 evo2 SUV, is intended primarily for “fast” crossovers. The tire has a two-layer viscose fiber carcass and an innovative three-layer tread block design with a three-stage outer rib block arrangement. This design increases the contact patch with the road as the tire wears, ensuring stable performance throughout its entire service life. The proprietary cooling system helps to effectively remove heat and prevent overheating of the tire during active driving.
MICHELIN
Unlike its competitors, Michelin this year is significantly expanding the range of standard sizes of its most popular models. MICHELIN tires Latitude Sport 3 for powerful SUVs in the 2015 season it can be purchased for installation on wheels with a mounting diameter of 17-21 inches. This model has been chosen by many automakers for the initial configuration of their cars: it has increased the width of the drainage channels by 10% (compared to the previous generation tire), and uses a double frame for reliable protection from stones and uneven surfaces. The Latitude Sport 3 brakes better than its predecessor and has longer durability.
Another popular new product from last spring, MICHELIN Primacy 3, created for mid- and business-class passenger cars, as well as small crossovers, received four new standard sizes. The next generation of the model outperforms the previous MICHELIN Primacy HP in all major “disciplines”: braking distance is shorter on both dry and wet roads, grip in corners on wet surfaces is improved by 4%. The tread with a patented pattern has self-locking sipes: under heavy braking they close, providing additional rigidity to large blocks.
The MICHELIN Energy XM2 size range has been expanded, designed for small and medium-class cars, as well as small crossovers. The proprietary frame design can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage to the sidewall and the appearance of a hernia when the wheel gets into a hole. The resource has been increased by approximately 20% compared to its predecessor.
PIRELLI
Pirelli has prepared the Cinturato P7 Blue model for this spring, which has become one of the company’s most high-tech tires. In accordance with the European marking, it belongs to class AA, that is, it has the maximum high performance when braking on wet roads, and also provides exemplary efficiency.
The tread pattern consists of four longitudinal grooves for better water drainage and reducing the likelihood of aquaplaning, densely spaced blocks in the central part to ensure better cornering stability, and a rigid shoulder area to reduce deformation under lateral loads.
A good option for an SUV would be the SCORPION ATR - these are tires for those who drive a lot on asphalt and often drive off it. Perhaps on high speeds it will seem a little noisy, but on the primer it will show all its advantages: durable sidewalls will protect you from cuts from stones, curved grooves will ensure good self-cleaning.
The tires of the size we have chosen remain the most popular on the Russian market (although there is a tendency to switch to 17- and even 18-inch wheels). The rather high, 55 percent profile of the 16-inch wheels allows you to balance between good handling and tolerable ride comfort on our far from the best roads.
This standard size has the widest range of models and brands. Among the bright premieres of our test is the Pirelli Cinturato P7 tire in Blue, which has just gone on sale. And for the first time we are trying out the Bridgestone Ecopia EP200 and Toyo Proxes CF2 models.
A couple of test cars - Golfs with a non-switchable stabilization system. The tires were tested at the end of last summer in order to catch all the new products for the upcoming 2015 season. The weather during the tests was not too hot: the thermometer showed 20–25 degrees Celsius.
The Volkswagen Golf is the most popular test car of all tire companies, and for good reason. Its immediate responses and crisp, clear handling make it easier for experts to assess tire performance.
The Golf has a fairly “transparent” suspension that does not hide road noise and vibrations - it was easy for our testers to evaluate both the smoothness of the ride and the contribution of the tires to the background sound. The stabilization system on this car does not turn off, but this is more of a plus than a minus. We initially tried removing this feature using our special equipment and found that the Golf with ESP turned off became excessively fidgety. The car had to be brought out of the skid in the initial phase, instantly and with precise movements. He delayed a little or overdid it - and in a second the Volkswagen could turn 180 degrees or fly far to the side. Scary!
We are currently testing tires without turning off ESP. The Golf's electronics are very loyal and are in no hurry to spring into action at the slightest hint of drift or drift, as, for example, in the Volvo. Our experts are able to assess and predict the behavior of the car based on the initial phases of sliding.
There is an opinion that for driving on bad roads, tires with a higher speed index are preferable. They are supposedly stronger than slow ones. This is wrong. High speed and load capacity indices do not at all mean increased resistance of tires to impacts in potholes and curb rubbing.
The design of high-speed tires is such that they do not centrifugal forces break it apart at high speed. This is often achieved by using additional reinforcing tape between the breaker and the frame. As a rule, the price to pay for this is increased rigidity and sometimes noise. But the sidewalls remain almost the same as those of slower tires. Namely, they are damaged by impacts.
There is no need to rely on tires with an increased load capacity index (tyres with an index of 90 can carry 600 kg, with an index of 91 - 615 kg, 92 - 630, 93 - 650, 94 - 670 kg), even when it is supplemented with the letters XL or the words Extra Load. Yes, tires with a high index have reinforced sidewalls and frames, they are more durable, but their task is to carry more weight, distribute the load evenly in the contact patch, and not keep the sidewalls intact during a powerful impact. As our experience shows, after a wheel falls into a hole with sharp edges, tires with different load capacity indices are destroyed equally. The only difference is the size of the damaged areas. A stronger tire will have less of a wound, but will still have to be thrown away.
Sometimes, more often in the spring, when the holes are especially deep, we raise the tire pressure by 0.3–0.5 bar above the recommended one. This impairs wheel grip and smooth ride, but makes the tires more resistant to punctures.
A serious struggle unfolded among the leaders. Six models surpassed the 900 point mark, which we consider to be an indicator of excellent tires. Rare case. It is noteworthy that five of them boast the highest efficiency. Difference between braking distances is measured in decimeters, and the speed at the rearrangement is measured in tenths of a kilometer per hour.
Having scored 944 points, she rose highest updated model Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue, which on wet surfaces showed the best braking properties and the highest speed at the changeover. In addition, it provides clear handling and excellent directional stability. And Cinturato also had the best price-quality ratio among the leading six - 3.81. After all, for a famous tire the price of 3,600 rubles is quite modest.
Having lost 18 points to the leader, the second position was taken by Nokian model Hakka Blue. This tire repeated the speed of the Pirelli in the wet and set a record in the dry. I lost a little while braking on dry asphalt. Those who choose this tire will certainly appreciate its positive effect on the handling and directional stability of the car. Price – 3650 rudders per piece.
The third prize was taken by the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance tire (losing only one point to Hacke). Experts gave her the palm in the “Comfort” category. Grip properties are high on both dry and wet roads. Goodyear let us down only in handling on dry roads: the Golf's complex behavior during extreme maneuvering limited the speed during a sharp lane change at a changeover. If you install EfficientGrip Performance on a car without ESP, then in such situations you need to be extremely careful. Price - 3,700 rubles, price-quality ratio - 3.99 (average value among top-end tires).
The Michelin Primacy 3 tire scored 926 points and took a high fourth place. Primacy has good grip properties; it provides clear handling and directional stability. But where Michelin surpassed everyone was in price: 4,000 rubles apiece. A famous name is always expensive.
Fifth place in the ranking is occupied by the South Korean Hankook Ventus Prime 2. It was this model that broke through to the initial configuration of the Mercedes S-Class, and deservedly so – 921 points in our test. Ventus Prime 2 demonstrates high grip properties and ensures precise adherence to a given course. Not the most prevented us from reaching the podium best performance fuel efficiency and small comments from experts regarding ride comfort and handling in extreme conditions. Hankook is offered for 3,400 rubles.
In sixth position with 913 points is the fifth generation Continental ContiPremiumContact tire. Leading braking properties on dry roads and high fuel efficiency. Other indicators range from good to excellent, but not record-breaking. Sold for 4000 rubles. The Germans, like Michelin, keep the brand.
In seventh place is the domestically produced Nordman SX with 890 points. The shortfall to the coveted “900” mark is only ten, less than two percent. Almost all indicators are above average; we did not encounter any difficulties or surprises in driving the car on these tires. With such indicators – only 2800 rubles per piece. The price/quality ratio of 3.15 is the best in the test. Nordman deserves the title of crisis fighter.
Toyo Proxes CF2: 876 points and eighth place. The braking performance on dry asphalt is equivalent to that of the Nordman; on wet asphalt, these tires are inferior to the Nordman by about half a meter. Rearrangement on dry is a little faster, on wet a little slower. It can boast of approximate efficiency. But the level of driving comfort on Proxes CF2 tires is low. I guess not everyone is ready to put up with this. We consider the price of 3,500 rubles too high.
In ninth place with 857 points is the Bridgestone Ecopia EP200. Good for fuel economy, but in our test, seven tire models gave the same result. In all other respects, it is far from a leader. The EP200 has poor grip on dry surfaces, while the Ecopia failed on wet surfaces. In extreme conditions, the handling of the Golf with these tires kept our testers on alert. You will have to be very careful when driving on a winding highway. Typically, Bridgestone brand tires are very expensive, but the price tag of this tire is relatively modest: 3,550 rubles.
Tenth place and 849 points – the result of Cordiant Sport 3. Braking on wet asphalt is above average, on dry asphalt – second place from the bottom. Handling on dry surfaces is difficult, but on wet surfaces it is problematic, so sudden lane changes will be successful only at low speeds. Fuel consumption was the highest in the test. The directional stability on these tires is not the best: driving at high speed requires extreme concentration, you cannot relax even for a second. The price does not seem to be the highest - 3100 rubles, but there are better and cheaper tires.
In eleventh position is Kama Euro 129. It has only 806 points. Not enough for a modern tire. All measurement results, with the exception of average fuel consumption, are the worst. In braking on dry asphalt it loses to the leader by almost six meters, on wet asphalt - four and a half. I would not maneuver sharply on these tires under any circumstances: the car could slip, and even ESP would not help. I’m not talking about ride comfort; there’s no smell of it here. The most pleasant indicator is the price, the lowest in the test: 2600 rubles.
TEST RESULTS
(Maximum 180 points)
(Maximum 160 points)
(Maximum 160 points)
(Maximum 140 points)
(Maximum 60 points)
(Maximum 50 points)
(Score/Points)
Expert opinions on each tire are presented below
(“price/quality” is determined by dividing the price by the amount of points earned in the test)
| Place | Tire | Expert opinion | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Place of manufacture: Germany
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| 2 |
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Place of manufacture: Finland
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| 3 |
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Place of manufacture: Germany
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| 4 |
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Place of manufacture: Germany
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| 5 |
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Place of manufacture: Hungary Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 6,8-7,6 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 70 Tire weight, kg: 9.3 Average price in online stores, rub.: 3400 Price/quality: 3.69
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| 6 |
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Place of manufacture: Czech Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 7,3-8,3 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 75 Tire weight, kg: 8.1 Average price in online stores, rub.: 4000 Price/quality: 4.38
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| 7 |
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Place of manufacture: Russia Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 7,5-7,9 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 72 Tire weight, kg: 9.0 Average price in online stores, rub.: 2800 Price/quality: 3.15
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| 8 |
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Place of manufacture: Japan Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 7,3-8,6 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 69 Tire weight, kg: 9.7 Average price in online stores, rub.: 3500 Price/quality: 4.00
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| 9 |
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Place of manufacture: Thailand Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 6,6-7,2 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 70 Tire weight, kg: 9.8 Average price in online stores, rub.: 3550 Price/quality: 4.14
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| 10 |
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Place of manufacture: Russia Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 7,2-7,8 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 75 Tire weight, kg: 8.4 Average price in online stores, rub.: 3100 Price/quality: 3.65
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| 11 |
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Place of manufacture: Russia Tread pattern: asymmetric Tread depth across width, mm: 7,1-7,7 Rubber hardness Shore, units: 74 Tire weight, kg: 9.2 Average price in online stores, rub.: 2600 Price/quality: 3.23
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Choosing decent summer tires for " iron horse"has always been a difficult and exciting issue for car owners. Today, we present to you a review of the most best models summer tires in the 2015 season.
Rating of the best summer tires of 2015
1st place: Michelin Pilot Super Sport
Let's start with the Michelin Pilot Super Sport. This model Summer tires are a profitable investment of “capital”, since this rubber behaves impeccably on dry and wet asphalt at high speeds, and the “life cycle” of the tread exceeds 3 years during normal use. Michelin tires Pilot Super Sport perfectly combines comfort, safety, high performance and low noise level even during very dynamic driving. As an alternative, you can pay attention to the Continental ExtremeContact DW. The cost of the latter is 17,000 rubles per wheel.
2nd place: Hankook Ventus V12 Evo K110
More affordable, but no less high quality, is a set of summer tires from South Korea - Hankook Ventus V12 Evo K110. This model was designed specifically for sports cars. The special features of the rubber are highly effective braking on wet road surfaces, good handling, acceptable noise levels and long service life. All this is achieved thanks to a well-designed tread pattern. The cost of one wheel is 7,200 rubles.
In this segment, you can also turn your attention to Yokohama S.drive.
3rd place: Bridgestone Potenza RE-11A
The best tire for track and racing was the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11A with an asymmetric tread design. Massive side “shoulders” improve handling and guarantee stability in corners. These tires are incredibly good on dry tracks and quite confident on wet ones.
The second option is Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08 R. Pricing ranges from 14,000 rubles. For the wheel.
4th place: Falken Azenis FK453
For everyday use on combined road surfaces, Falken Azenis FK453 tires with a starting price of 8,000 rubles per wheel are ideal. This model of German wheels has an excellent balance between behavior on dry and wet roads. This result was achieved through the use of silicon oxide. And the nylon-reinforced construction improves stability at high speeds while maintaining comfort. These tires, like the Hankook Ventus V12 evo2, are perfect for aggressive drivers, guaranteeing maximum performance on any road surface.
5th place: Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport
The most wear-resistant tread, according to the UTQG rating, has Bridgestone model Potenza RE760 Sport. For 39,000 rubles, the car enthusiast gets excellent wheels that have sporting attributes, good comfort and low levels of road noise. Alternative option- set of Dunlop Direzza DZ102 tires.
- BFGoodrich G-Force Sport COMP-2,
- Michelin Pilot Sport 3,
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup.
Choosing the right set of summer “shoes” is a very sensitive issue and requires a lot of attention. When choosing wheels, depending on needs, the driver chooses comfort, controllability and safety above all.
