AutoBild has recently conducted an on and off-road tire test of ten SUV tires in size 255/55 R18, evaluating their performance on both asphalt and in off-road conditions. The test included premium brands like Pirelli, Bridgestone, Michelin, Falken, Vredestein and Kumho, alongside budget options from Triangle and Hifly.
The testing was split into three main categories: on-road wet performance, on-road dry performance, and off-road capability across various terrains including grass, sand, gravel, and loose stone surfaces.
5 categories (13 tests)
| Test Category | Best Performer | Worst Performer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry (2 tests) | |||
| Dry Braking | ▲ Falken Azenis FK520: 33.2 M | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 42.2 M | 9.0 M (21.3%) |
| Dry Handling | ▲ Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6: 108.1 Km/H | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 102.3 Km/H | 5.8 Km/H (5.7%) |
| Wet (5 tests) | |||
| Wet Braking | ▲ Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV: 46.8 M | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 65.4 M | 18.6 M (28.4%) |
| Wet Handling | ▲ Falken Azenis FK520: 86.6 Km/H | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 75.5 Km/H | 11.1 Km/H (14.7%) |
| Wet Circle | ▲ Falken Azenis FK520: 20.18 s | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 23.27 s | 3.1 s (13.3%) |
| Straight Aqua | ▲ Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV: 87.8 Km/H | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 72.2 Km/H | 15.6 Km/H (21.6%) |
| Curved Aquaplaning | ▲ Vredestein Ultrac: 2.74 m/sec2 | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 1.3 m/sec2 | 1.4 m/sec2 (110.8%) |
| Off road (4 tests) | |||
| Gravel Handling | ▲ Pirelli Scorpion: 61.2 Km/H | ▼ Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601: 59.3 Km/H | 1.9 Km/H (3.2%) |
| Gravel Traction | ▲ Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV: 12150 N | ▼ Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601: 10070 N | 2,080.0 N (20.7%) |
| Sand Traction | ▲ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 11510 N | ▼ Bridgestone Turanza 6: 9440 N | 2,070.0 N (21.9%) |
| ▲ Hifly HP801: 2 s | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 1.51 s | 0.5 s (32.5%) | |
| Comfort (1 tests) | |||
| Noise | ▲ Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601: 62.1 dB | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 65.2 dB | 3.1 dB (4.8%) |
| Value (1 tests) | |||
| Rolling Resistance | ▲ Bridgestone Turanza 6: 6.23 kg / t | ▼ Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure: 9.66 kg / t | 3.4 kg / t (35.5%) |
The All-Terrain Contender
Interestingly, the test included both a standard Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 summer tire and Goodyear's Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure, specifically designed for tough off-road use. This inclusion provided valuable insight into the trade-offs between specialized off-road tires and standard SUV summer tires, especially as both tires are test winners in their respective categories.
The results were revealing: while the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure excelled in off-road traction tests, particularly showing the highest measured traction on grass and sand, it struggled significantly in standard road safety tests. Its wet braking distance was 37% longer than the standard Goodyear Eagle F1, stopping more than three car lengths later. Similarly, in dry conditions, the all-terrain tire stopped nine meters after the best-performing tire.
The testers concluded that while the all-terrain tire has valid uses for serious off-road driving, it's "completely unsuitable for everyday traffic" due to these safety compromises. They noted its robust profile offers excellent resistance to cuts from sharp rocks and other hazards, but this comes at the cost of on-road performance and safety.
The test crowned the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 as the overall winner, with testers praising its ability to balance safety standards on asphalt with good off-road traction. Falken, Pirelli, and Vredestein tires also received "exemplary" ratings, showing that specialized all-terrain tires aren't necessary for most SUV owners who occasionally venture off-road.
Dry
The Falken Azenis FK520 led the dry braking test with a stopping distance of 33.2 meters, followed closely by the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 at 34.3 meters. The specialized Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure trailed significantly behind all other tires, requiring 42.2 meters to stop - over 9 meters longer than the best performer, highlighting the safety compromise made for off-road capability.
In dry handling tests, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 achieved the highest average speed of 108.1 km/h, with the Falken FK520 close behind at 107.8 km/h. The All-Terrain Wrangler again finished last with 102.3 km/h, showing consistent limitations on paved surfaces where cornering grip and response are crucial for everyday driving safety.
Wet
Michelin's Pilot Sport 4 SUV dominated wet braking with the shortest stopping distance of 46.8 meters, followed by the Goodyear Eagle F1 at 47.6 meters. The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure performed worst by a significant margin, requiring 65.4 meters - nearly 19 meters more than the Michelin and 37% longer than its Goodyear stablemate, revealing a critical safety compromise in wet conditions.
The Falken FK520 led wet handling tests with an 86.6 km/h average speed, closely followed by the Goodyear Eagle F1 at 86.5 km/h. The Wrangler All-Terrain again struggled considerably, managing only 75.5 km/h - over 11 km/h slower than the leader and showing consistent limitations across all wet-performance metrics compared to standard SUV tires.
In aquaplaning tests, Michelin's Pilot Sport 4 SUV showed excellent water evacuation in straight lines at 87.8 km/h, while the Vredestein Ultrac demonstrated superior lateral grip in wet curves with 2.74 m/s² of remaining acceleration. The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure performed poorly in both measures, managing only 72.2 km/h in straight aquaplaning and 1.30 m/s² in curves - less than half the lateral grip of the best performer, revealing a severe compromise in wet safety that could be critical in rainy conditions.
Off road
On loose gravel, the Pirelli Scorpion led with an average speed of 61.2 km/h, with the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure close behind at 60.9 km/h. The performance gap between specialized off-road and standard SUV tires narrowed significantly in this test, with most tires showing comparable capability - indicating that many drivers don't need a dedicated off-road tire for light gravel use.
Michelin's Pilot Sport 4 SUV surprisingly delivered the highest gravel traction with 12,150 Newtons of pulling force, followed by Bridgestone's Turanza 6 at 11,180 N. The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure ranked 8th at 10,360 N - despite its off-road focus, it was outperformed by several standard SUV tires in this loose surface test, challenging assumptions about specialized tires' advantages.
The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure finally demonstrated its specialized capability, leading in sand traction with 11,510 Newtons of pulling force, followed by the Vredestein Ultrac at 10,280 N. This test revealed the All-Terrain's true advantage in specific challenging off-road conditions, showing 12% better traction than the nearest competitor on soft, yielding surfaces.
The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure again showed its off-road prowess with the quickest grass acceleration time of 1.51 seconds, followed by the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV at 1.58 seconds. This result further confirms the specialized tire's advantage in specific off-road conditions, though the performance gap to standard SUV tires was relatively small compared to the larger deficits seen in on-road tests.
Comfort
The Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601 budget tire was quietest at 62.1 dB, with Pirelli's Scorpion a close second at 62.2 dB. The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure generated the most road noise at 65.2 dB, confirming the expected comfort compromise from its aggressive tread pattern. Interestingly, the premium Michelin was also among the noisier options at 65.0 dB.
Value
The Bridgestone Turanza 6 demonstrated the best fuel efficiency with a rolling resistance of just 6.23 kg/t, followed by the Falken FK520 at 7.15 kg/t. The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure ranked last at 9.66 kg/t, confirming that its aggressive tread pattern results in significantly higher rolling resistance, which translates to increased fuel consumption compared to standard SUV tires.
Results
1st: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is the overall test winner with excellent all-round performance. It offers dynamic handling on both wet and dry surfaces with short braking distances. This tire provides good safety reserves at aquaplaning and delivers capable performance in off-road conditions. It has an impressive balance between on-road safety and off-road traction. Not the most fuel-efficient with moderate rolling resistance, but compensates with good comfort and reasonable pass-by noise. Priced at the premium end, it represents a justified investment for SUV owners wanting no compromises. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2nd: Falken Azenis FK520 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Falken Azenis FK520 is a strong performer placing second overall with outstanding dry handling and the shortest dry braking distance. It offers refreshingly dynamic handling character and short braking distances in both wet and dry conditions. Good performance off-road with particularly impressive handling on gravel. Reasonably fuel-efficient with good rolling resistance and moderate pass-by noise. At a mid-range price point, it represents excellent value compared to more expensive premium options. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2nd: Pirelli Scorpion | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Pirelli Scorpion tied for second place, delivering top-level performance on all surfaces. Especially notable for being the quietest tire in the test. It provides dynamic and secure handling with short braking distances on asphalt. Surprisingly strong in off-road tests despite not being a specialist, with particularly good performance on sand. Offers a good balance of low rolling resistance and comfort. Among the most expensive options but delivers premium performance to match. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2nd: Vredestein Ultrac | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Vredestein Ultrac tied for second place with balanced and secure handling across all conditions. It offers the best performance in curve aquaplaning tests with superior lateral grip. Good braking performance on both wet and dry surfaces. Provides consistent traction across varied off-road surfaces. Quiet operation with good comfort characteristics and average rolling resistance. Priced in the mid-premium range, it offers top performance at a slightly lower price point than some competitors. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5th: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is a solid performer earning fifth place with the best wet braking performance and excellent aquaplaning resistance. It shows strong off-road capabilities, particularly on gravel with the highest traction. Fuel-efficient with good rolling resistance, but surprisingly noisy with one of the highest pass-by noise levels among street tires. As the most expensive option in the test, it offers proven performance but at a premium price. Read Reviews Buy from £287.99 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
6th: Kumho Ecsta PS71 SUV | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Kumho Ecsta PS71 SUV delivers good overall performance at a more accessible price point. It offers decent handling on wet and dry surfaces with respectable braking distances. Demonstrates good off-road performance, particularly in sand traction tests. Average in terms of rolling resistance and noise levels. Presents a balanced package with no major weaknesses but lacks the outstanding qualities of the top performers. Good value for money for SUV owners seeking reliable performance without the premium price. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
7th: Bridgestone Turanza 6 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Bridgestone Turanza 6 offers strong points in its class-leading rolling resistance, making it the most fuel-efficient tire in the test. It provides balanced good dynamics on asphalt and in off-road use, with particularly strong performance on loose gravel. Shows slightly understeer-heavy handling characteristics in wet conditions but maintains good overall safety. Mid-range for pass-by noise with decent comfort characteristics. A solid performer that prioritizes efficiency without major compromises in other areas. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8th: Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Triangle EffeX SUV TS 601 is a budget option that delivers acceptable performance without grave deficiencies. It offers one of the quietest ride experiences in the test despite its price point. Shows limited lateral grip and extended braking distances in wet conditions compared to premium brands. Reasonable off-road performance considering its price. For budget-conscious SUV owners, it presents a usable option with acceptable compromises, though safety reserves are noticeably reduced compared to premium options. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9th: Hifly HP801 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Hifly HP 801 SUV is the most affordable tire in the test with reasonable aquaplaning resistance being its main strength. Shows significant limitations in wet handling and braking, with extended stopping distances that raise safety concerns. Dry performance is similarly compromised with borderline handling characteristics. Off-road capability is merely adequate. Despite the attractive price, the compromises in safety-relevant characteristics make it difficult to recommend for daily use. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10th: Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure is a specialized off-road tire that excels in its intended environment but struggles on paved roads. Features a robust profile that's highly resistant to punctures and cuts from sharp rocks and it delivers the best traction on grass and sand among all tested tires. However, it shows major deficiencies in wet performance with significantly longer braking distances and poor aquaplaning resistance. Dry handling and braking are similarly compromised. While excellent for dedicated off-road use, it's described as "completely unsuitable for everyday traffic" by the testers. Read Reviews | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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