Fuel-efficient tires tested: Continental ProContact ECOPLUS+, Cooper GFE, Michelin Energy Saver A/S

We recently added two new tire models, the Cooper GFE and Michelin Energy Saver A/S, to the T-speed rated all-season tire ratings, available to online subscribers. Both are marketed as fuel-efficient tires with good all-season grip. It used to be if you wanted a fuel-efficient tire, your choices were limited to original equipment tires. (The automobile manufacturers often request fuel-efficient tires to bolster fuel-mileage ratings.) Last year Goodyear introduced the Assurance Fuel Max, marketing it as a fuel-efficient replacement tire. On Goodyear's heels, Cooper and Michelin introduced two new competing models. Also, Continental recently introduced the ProContact ECOPLUS +, and we have just posted ratings on that model, as well. (See our video showing tire testing and buying advice.)
 
What did we find?
The Continental ProContact ECOPLUS+, Cooper GFE, and Michelin Energy Saver A/S all performed well in our battery of tests. The Michelin garnered an excellent overall score, just behind its sibling the long-wearing Michelin HydroEdge. The Energy Saver has exceptionally low rolling resistance and rated Good or better in nearly every test category, except for snow traction where it achieved only a Fair relative rating—same as the HydroEdge. But where the HydroEdge excels in tread life, the Energy Saver A/S was just average achieving a Good rating.

The Cooper GFE is a Very Good choice overall, suitable for all-weather conditions and low rolling resistance, but not as low as the Michelin Energy Saver A/S. Tread life is just Fair based on our test assessment, but Cooper does offer a 60,000 mile treadwear warranty whereas the Michelin has none.

The Continental ProContact ECOPLUS+ earned a high overall score, second to the top-rated Michelin Hydroedge in the S- and T-speed rated all-season category. We consider it to be an excellent choice for those consumers looking for a fuel-efficient tire with all-weather grip.

Buying tires
You might be tempted to buy a tire solely based it fuel efficiency but keep in mind the savings are relatively small. A 10- or 20-percent difference in rolling resistance between two tires might just mean only a one or two percent improvement in fuel economy. No matter of what tire you buy, check the inflation pressure routinely, since underinflated tires have higher rolling resistance and will cost you mpgs. When considering what to buy, we suggest looking at a tire model with a high overall score that has good braking, handling, and hydroplaning resistance. From a short list, consider a tire that suits your needs including winter grip, comfort, and tread life, and then use rolling resistance as a tiebreaker. (Read more tire buying advice.)

— Gene Petersen