Al Volante: Summer SUV Tire Test R18 2025

As temperatures rise, summer tires become essential for safety and performance—but not all deliver equally. Al Volante’s 2025 test pitted seven summer SUV tires in the 235/55 R18 size against brutal wet and dry challenges, revealing stark contrasts between premium brands and a budget Chinese contender priced at a fraction of the cost.

Testing unfolded in March under mild conditions, with simulated monsoon-like rain on track sections to mimic real-world downpours. Key evaluations focused on:

Wet braking (from 80 km/h), where gaps between best and worst spanned 4 meters—a difference that could mean avoiding a collision or causing one.
Noise levels, measured via standardized pass-by tests at 80 km/h.
Rolling resistance, linked directly to fuel efficiency and emissions.

While premium models from established brands showcased tight competition in safety metrics, the budget tire faltered dramatically, raising critical questions about cost versus risk.

Pirelli Cinturato C3 - Winner

N/A 37

· Summer · 2025 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Pirelli Cinturato C3 claims 1st place with best-in-test wet handling and near-top wet/dry braking (2nd in both). Its exceptional aquaplaning resistance (81.6 km/h straight, 88.7 m/s² lateral) and balanced comfort-noise profile make it a versatile summer EV tire, though marginally longer braking distances and rolling resistance (7.4 kg/t) prevent perfection.
Lateral Aquaplaning Rolling Resistance Straight Aquaplaning Cornering Stability Wet Handling Aquaplaning Comfort Noise Wet Braking Dry Braking

Europe

Test Score:

97.3
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

93 60

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Max Performance Summer

Verdict:
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 secures 2nd place, dominating aquaplaning resistance (1st in straight/lateral) and delivering near-top wet/dry braking (2nd). Its sporty wet handling and low noise appeal to performance enthusiasts, though elevated rolling resistance reduces efficiency.
Lateral Aquaplaning Straight Aquaplaning Wet Handling Aquaplaning Wet Braking Noise Dry Braking Rolling Resistance

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

Test Score:

97.1
Continental PremiumContact 7

95 53

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Continental PremiumContact 7 secures 3rd place with best-in-class dry and wet braking (36.6m/28.7m) and reliable wet handling. Its safety-focused design falters in aquaplaning resistance (6th straight, 4th lateral) and efficiency (7.9 kg/t rolling resistance), while moderate noise levels and abrupt traction transitions limit refinement.
Driving Safety Wet Handling Wet Braking Dry Braking Lateral Aquaplaning Subj. Wet Handling Rolling Resistance Straight Aquaplaning Noise

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

95.4
Michelin Primacy 5

N/A 37

· Summer · 2025 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Michelin Primacy 5 ranks 4th, balancing best-in-test noise levels and low rolling resistance for efficiency-focused EV drivers. While delivering competent aquaplaning resistance (3rd lateral, 4th straight) and stable wet handling, its dry braking and cornering agility lag behind rivals, limiting sporty appeal.
Lateral Aquaplaning Rolling Resistance Straight Aquaplaning Aquaplaning Noise Dry Braking Wet Braking Dry Handling

Europe

Test Score:

94.8
Firestone Roadhawk 2 Enliten

N/A 32

· Summer · 2024 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Firestone Roadhawk 2 Enliten ranks 5th, delivering best-in-test rolling resistance for unmatched efficiency and stable emergency handling. While competent in straight aquaplaning and wet/dry braking, its lateral aquaplaning, noise levels, and low-speed steering responsiveness trail competitors.
Rolling Resistance Driving Safety Straight Aquaplaning Dry Handling Lateral Aquaplaning Steering Response Wet Braking Noise Dry Braking

Europe

Test Score:

94.6
Hankook Ventus Prime 4 K135

79 50

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 ranks 6th, offering adequate wet braking and mid-pack rolling resistance. However, its longest dry braking distance, highest noise levels, and weak lateral aquaplaning resistance highlight significant compromises. Rear instability in wet corners further limits confidence.
Rolling Resistance Lateral Aquaplaning Wet Lateral Stability Wet Handling Noise Dry Braking

Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · Japan · Middle East · Africa

Test Score:

92.8
Austone Athena SP-303

N/A 23

· Summer · 2022 · Light Truck / SUV - Street/Sport Truck Summer

Verdict:
The Austone Athena SP 303 ranks last with dangerously long dry braking (40.6m, 7th) and wet braking (32.8m, 7th), compounded by poor aquaplaning resistance and unpredictable grip loss. Its only merit is a low price, but severe safety flaws overshadow affordability.
Price Lateral Aquaplaning Rolling Resistance Straight Aquaplaning Wet Handling Wet Braking Noise Dry Braking

Europe

Test Score:

83