High-performance tires in good condition allow you to drive safely. However, it is not easy to spontaneously differentiate between the different brands. Michelin remains the safe bet for the French when a German will bet on Continental and a Korean on Handcook. Then, the dimensions and types of tires vary, and if we add to that the high number of manufacturers, the lights of an expert are essential before making a purchase.
The Big Five of the best tire brands
Tests are carried out every year by independent specialists such as ADAC in Germany or TCS in Switzerland to test the qualities of different tire brands.
They are based on road holding and braking on dry and wet roads. The British site Tyrepress revealed the following ranking in June 2017:
- Bridgestone
- Michelin
- Goodyear
- Continental
- Pirelli
- Sumitomo
- Hankook
- Yokohama
- Maxxis
- Cooper tires
The leading Japanese tire manufacturer has the honors of the ranking. Its performances on the Formula 1 circuit and its constant efforts in terms of innovation have earned it international recognition today. Bridgestone is the undisputed specialist in all-terrain tires and 4-season tires. Its tires adapt to any type of vehicle and comply with the highest quality standards.
Our national Michelin Michelin is in second place, even if it remains the favorite tire of the French. The road holding of Michelin, especially when cornering, has made its reputation. They also offer excellent qualities of resistance and longevity. The brand’s reputation also owes a lot to its performances in Formula 1.
The American manufacturer Good Year remains among the safe bets of the market, especially for lovers of quiet tires, of which it has become a great specialist. Two European manufacturers, German for Continental and Italian for Pirelli are hot on its heels. Continental is banking on the low rolling resistance of its tires for a reduction in fuel consumption. Pirelli tires emphasize driving pleasure and ensure their presence in 25 different countries. The brand is also a great specialist in designer tires.
What about lesser-known manufacturers?
The second part of the ranking highlights lesser-known manufacturers, but which tend to gain the trust of motorists on the market. Some see their place fluctuate in the ranking, over the years. Thus, the Korean Hankook loses a little ground, to the benefit of Sumitomo Tires, a Japanese conglomerate that owns well-known brands in Europe such as Dunlop, Tyres, and Falken. Japanese manufacturers are very present, because the Yokohmama brand, originally from Tokyo, stood out by launching an ecological tire, less greedy for fuel, which should progress on the market.
Taiwanese manufacturer Maxxis has conquered the American and European markets by offering a quality tire at a more affordable price. Its ranges are mainly focused on summer and passenger tires. Less well-known than Good Year, Cooper Tires is an American manufacturer offering good value for money.
Even though tires are essential for car safety, studies show that they remain very sensitive to the price argument when it comes to renewing them. Using a price comparison site seems like a good solution to not deprive yourself of the technology of the best brands, with a studied budget.
