Auto Zeitung: UHP Summer Tire Test R19 2023

A typical UHP tire in size 235/35ZR19 Y can be safely fitted on family cars, such as the VW Passat or Subaru Legacy, which are as far from the racetracks and track days as you can possibly imagine. However, tires of this specification are more in demand on the «cranked-up» versions of golf-class cars, such as Audi S3, Cupra Leon or Hyundai i30 N. This is why, when it came to the choice of a test car, the Auto Zeitung experts opted for a car from this series — the Ford Focus ST, renewed in September 2022, powered by a 280 horsepower engine. Besides the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, which enjoys great popularity since the day of its market launch, and the Pirelli P Zero, which has long since gained a solid reputation in the sports segment, the test also involved new models from Continental, Goodyear and Michelin. The budget segment of the UHP tires was represented by the Giti, Falken, Kumho, and Nexen tires. And, since the all-season tires are becoming increasingly popular, this summer test also involved (performing out of competition l) the all-season Michelin CrossClimate 2, one of the most modern and efficient tires of this type.

Continental SportContact 7 - Winner Recommended

94 63

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Max Performance Summer

Verdict:
The new tire from Continental features good hydroplaning resistance and good cornering grip. In addition, together with Bridgestone wins the braking test. High dynamic performance with a tendency to understeer. Excellent performance: shortest braking distances, very high driving safety and low rolling resistance.
Dry Braking Lateral Stability Dry Handling Straight Hydroplaning Rolling Resistance Safety Wet Braking Wet Handling

USA+ · Mexico · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia · Southeast Asia · Middle East

Test Score:

263
Bridgestone Potenza Sport Recommended

84 66

· Summer · 2021 · Passenger - Ultra High Performance Summer

Verdict:
Bridgestone delivers superior wet grip, performance and safety in braking, handling and driving stability. The tire responds predictably to changes in load at the limit, but requires active steering correction. Flawless driving performance helps the Bridgestone lap faster than the Continental. In addition, Potenza Sport has the highest rolling resistance, which affects fuel consumption and points.
Dry Braking Dry Handling Lateral Hydroplaning Straight Hydroplaning Wet Handling Safety Wet Braking Rolling Resistance

North America · Europe · Russia+ · China · Southeast Asia · Middle East · Oceania

Test Score:

263
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

94 60

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Max Performance Summer

Verdict:
Second place for the current, sixth generation of the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric, which shines as a dynamic all-rounder with remarkable driving comfort.
Noise Dry Handling Lateral Stability Lateral Hydroplaning Straight Hydroplaning Wet Handling Comfort

USA+ · Europe · Russia+ · Middle East · South Africa

Test Score:

248
Pirelli P Zero PZ4

81 63

· Summer · 2016 · Passenger - Max Performance Summer

Verdict:
Once again, the Pirelli P Zero, this time in the PZ4 S.C. version, can establish itself at the top with its dynamic talents and its meticulously balanced steering behavior.
Dry Braking Lateral Stability Straight Hydroplaning Wet Handling Safety Wet Braking Rolling Resistance

North America · Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia · Southeast Asia · Middle East · Oceania

Test Score:

248
Michelin Pilot Sport 5

92 56

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Extreme Performance Summer

Verdict:
In the end, the new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is only one point short of second place. Only when it comes to aquaplaning does it perform worse than the tires before it. Low rolling resistance, but high price level.
Dry Braking Lateral Stability Wet Handling Safety Wet Braking Straight Hydroplaning Noise

Canada · Mexico · Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · Japan · China · Southeast Asia · Middle East · Oceania

Test Score:

247
Falken Azenis FK520

76 44

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Ultra High Performance Summer

Verdict:
The price-performance tip: Falken Azenis FK520. The affordable tire stays within striking distance of the top products in the dry and easily masters the wet.
Dry Braking Lateral Stability Dry Handling Lateral Hydroplaning Wet Braking Wet Handling Safety

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

233
Nexen N Fera Sport

75 41

· Summer · 2018 · Passenger - Ultra High Performance Summer

Verdict:
The Nexen N'Fera Sport SU2 doesn't set any highlights, but delivers decent results and doesn't show any major weaknesses. That's not enough for a good placement, but considering the price it's ok.
Straight Hydroplaning Lateral Hydroplaning Noise Wet Handling Safety Wet Braking Lateral Stability

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

206
Kumho Ecsta PS91

68 25

· Summer · 2013 · Passenger - Extreme Performance Summer

Verdict:
The Kumho Ecsta PS91 SC doesn't do anything wrong, but it's no longer up to date - a successor is in the works. Currently, however, the low price is the strongest argument for this tire.
Dry Braking Straight Hydroplaning Wet Handling Wet Braking Rolling Resistance Safety

USA+ · Canada · Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia · Southeast Asia · Middle East · North Africa · Oceania

Test Score:

199
Giti GitiSport S2

66 36

· Summer · 2021 · Passenger - Ultra High Performance Summer

Verdict:
Optimal for aquaplaning, low rolling resistance. But those who opt for the Giti Sport S2 have to accept compromises in wet performance. The latest update should offer noticeably more grip.
Rolling Resistance Lateral Hydroplaning Straight Hydroplaning Dry Braking Lateral Stability Wet Handling Safety Wet Braking

Europe · China · Southeast Asia · Oceania

Test Score:

189