You can also find the new Goodyear Eagle F1Asymmetric 6 in this mix.
Performance enthusiasts know that tires can make a big difference to a vehicle’s overall capabilities. Michelin and Goodyear have new offerings in the ultra-high-performance (UHP) street segment for 2022, and Jonathan Benson from Tyrereviews.com had the occasion to evaluate both brands – and many others – in one of his comprehensive testing sessions.
A new Volkswagen GTI was selected as the sole vehicle to test nine UHP tires. Make that eight for the UHP group, and one for Touring. Bridgestone sent a set Turanza TW05s to replace Potenza Sports. Benson uses the opportunity to show the difference between UHP and Touring tires by demonstrating the sidewalls of the Turanza. This shows how flexible the tire is compared to the others.
The latest Michelin is the Pilot Sport 5. It will be competing against the Goodyear Eagle F1Asymmetric 6. The test also included the Continental PremiumContact 6, Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3 and the Yokohama Advan Sport V105. Giti GitiSport S2, Rotalla S race SU01 and the Semperit Speed Life 3 are good options for budget-minded buyers.
These tires are most often ultra-high performance and dry handling is the main focus of the test. However, the evaluation includes wet handling and braking in both wet and dry conditions. The test also considers hydroplaning, rolling resistance and curb protection for tires. It also takes into account noise and comfort. Based on data alone, each segment is awarded a winner. Benson emphasizes the subjective nature and personal preferences of driving as factors to be considered before making a decision.
The Continental PremiumContact 6 narrowly beat Goodyear from a standpoint of speed track times in dry conditions. Yokohama was third and the new Michelin fourth. Surprisingly, Bridgestone was not last. That honor went to budget brand Semperit. However, it’s a completely different story in wet. Goodyear, Michelin and Semperit are almost tied at the top. What about the winners in the other categories? Although there are some surprises, those who were expecting a Michelin sweep will find this review fascinating.
The final results will be left for the video. Jonathan Benson, in the latest Rambling About Cars podcast has more information about the test and provides a deeper dive on tire testing.