The November issue of Consumer Reports ranks the Dunlop SP Sport 5000 as the top H-rated all-season performance tire. It beat out the Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S and Falken Ziex ZE 512.
The magazine tested 55 different models of H- and V-rated tires, including performance winter tires.
The all-season performance tires were rated in the following categories: dry braking, wet braking, handling, hydroplaning, rolling resistance, snow traction, ice braking, ride, noise and tread life. Here are the top six H-rated tires, which CR classified as "excellent."
1. Dunlop SP Sport 5000.
2. Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S.
2. Falken Ziex ZE 512.
4. Continental ContiProContact.
4. Michelin Pilot XGT H4.
6. Bridgestone Potenza RE950.
Four tires, the Michelin Pilot HX MXM4, Yokohama Avid V4s, Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S and Continental ContiProContact (in order of their respective finishes), were rated "excellent" in the comparison of V-rated all-season performance tires. The Yokohama tire received top scores in three categories: dry and wet braking and hydroplaning resistance.
The performance winter tires were ranked for their snow traction; ice, dry and wet braking capabilities; handling; hydroplaning resistance; and ride and noise comfort. The top four, in order, were all H-rated tires: Goodyear Eagle Ultra Grip GW3, Nitto Winter SN1, Continental ContiWinterContact TS810 and Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25.
The top V-rated performance winter tire (which finished fifth, tied with the Nokian WR All Weather Plus H) was the Dunlop SP Winter Sport M3, followed closely by the Continental ContiWinterContact TS810S.
The 22 H-rated all-season performance tires were size P105/65R15. The 13 V-rated all-season performance tires and 20 performance winter tires were size P205/55R16.
