Motor: Summer Tire Test R16 2025

Motor magazine’s summer tire test focused on a critical balancing act: can energy-efficient tires save fuel without compromising safety? Seven models in the 205/55 R16 size—a fit for popular cars like the Audi A3 and Volvo V70—were put through rigorous trials to answer this question.

The test targeted tires with top EU “A” ratings for both rolling resistance (fuel efficiency) and wet grip, though most were factory-optimized versions designed for specific automakers (Audi, Peugeot, Renault). Only two models—Continental’s UltraContact NXT and the Chinese Prinx XLAB Comfort EV—were aftermarket designs available to everyday buyers. This raised questions: do automakers prioritize efficiency over wet-weather safety when tuning OEM tires?

Testing covered dry/wet braking, handling precision, aquaplaning resistance, and real-world energy efficiency. Results revealed a tight race among premium brands and a standout performance from a mid-range contender. However, one tire—despite its eco-friendly branding—struggled alarmingly in wet conditions, proving that low rolling resistance doesn’t always equal safety.

Continental UltraContact NXT - Winner Recommended

N/A 35

· Summer · 2023 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Continental UltraContact NXT dominated Motor’s summer tire test with best-in-class wet braking, precise handling, and superior circle grip, complemented by agile dry performance and driver-admired steering feedback. Despite a sixth-place rolling resistance ranking (EU Label A/A) and premium €479 price, its safety-first focus and balanced comfort solidified its top position.
Wet Handling Wet Circle Subj. Steering Response Wet Braking Dry Performance Subj. Dry Handling Rolling Resistance Price

Europe · Russia+
Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2

85 64

· Summer · 2020 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 earned second place with balanced wet/dry performance, class-leading noise reduction (63.4 dB), and EU Label A/A efficiency. While matching top comfort scores and dry handling agility, its slightly lower price (€436) positions it as a value-focused alternative to premium rivals.
Comfort Dry Handling Rolling Resistance Noise Wet Performance

Europe · Russia+ · Japan · China · Southeast Asia · Middle East · South Africa
Michelin e.Primacy

80 44

· Summer · 2020 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Michelin e.Primacy ranked third, combining best-in-class rolling resistance (5.48 kg/t) with strong dry braking (36.1m) and top-tier comfort. Its efficiency focus compromised aquaplaning resistance, lagging in curved and straight water evacuation tests.
Comfort Dry Braking Rolling Resistance Lateral Aquaplaning Straight Aquaplaning

Europe · Russia+ · Japan · China · Africa · Oceania
Bridgestone Turanza T005

83 59

· Summer · 2018 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Bridgestone Turanza T005 tied for fourth place, excelling in curved aquaplaning resistance (2.98 m/sec²) and delivering precise dry handling with strong driver feedback. Despite competitive rolling resistance (EU Label A/A), its sixth-place wet braking (54.2m) and highest noise levels (66.8 dB) limited its appeal, particularly at its €437 price point.
Lateral Aquaplaning Straight Aquaplaning Subj. Dry Handling Dry Handling Noise Wet Braking

North America · Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · China · South Korea · Southeast Asia · Middle East · Oceania
Falken Ziex ZE310 Ecorun

77 41

· Summer · 2017 · Passenger - High Performance Summer

Verdict:
The Falken ZIEX ZE310 EcoRun tied for fifth place, bridging the gap between mid-range and premium tires with strong dry braking (36.3m) and competitive dry handling. Its value-driven €336 price and balanced wet performance offset mixed aquaplaning results, though curved hydroplaning resistance lagged behind leaders.
Dry Braking Price Dry Handling Lateral Aquaplaning

Europe · Russia+ · South Africa
Nexen N Blue S

N/A 15

· Summer · 2020 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer · Used as Original Equipment (OE) only

Verdict:
The Nexen N Blue S ranked sixth, excelling in straight aquaplaning resistance (76.7 km/h float speed) and curved hydroplaning while offering competitive rolling resistance. Its €253 price delivers strong value for rainy climates, though handling precision and braking distances lagged behind premium rivals.
Lateral Aquaplaning Straight Aquaplaning Price Rolling Resistance Wet Braking Dry Braking Subj. Dry Handling

Europe · Russia+