Best Performance Tires
CR's comprehensive ratings for ultra-high-performance tires help you make the best choice for your situation
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Consumer Reports' latest tire test results for the ultra-high-performance category underscores the differences between tire types, such as all-season versus winter/snow, and the spectrum of performance within each type.
“A car’s performance is only as good as the tires, because they are the only contact with the road,” says Gene Petersen, tire program manager at Consumer Reports.
Ultra-high-performance tires offer high levels of grip and responsive handling to deliver the agility expected in a performance-focused sedan or sports car.
Our latest tire testing reveals the models that are most up to the task. Among other findings, our testing shows that ultra-high-performance tires wear more quickly than regular car tires.
CR’s Unique Testing
Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports
Overall, we purchased 520 tires this year for our full test program, covering 51 models for UHP all-season and summer tires and performance winter/snow categories. We tested them at our track in Connecticut for wet and dry braking and handling, ride comfort and quietness, and resistance to hydroplaning. We evaluated each tire’s grip on ice at a nearby skating rink and snow traction was performed in New York state.
We also commissioned outside labs to measure each tire’s rolling resistance, which affects fuel economy, and extensive treadwear tests on public roads in western Texas.
See the treadwear ratings on the tire model pages.
Below we share highlights from our latest tests, pointing to the best tires.
Tire Test Highlights
Competition is stiff in the UHP all-season tire category. The new Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate claims the top spot, with the next four models scoring in a virtual four-way tie. That Eagle Exhilarate was a late addition to our ratings. It delivered impressive performance in most tests, although its tread life is estimated to be just 45,000 miles—a bit short of its rivals, which look to provide 55,000 to 65,000 miles of service.
