Approximately 35 million passenger car tyres are sold annually in the UK, though figures vary depending on the sources and metrics considered. Despite the steady growth in the all-season tyre segment, most of these 35 million are summer tyres, which, despite their name and design for optimal performance in warmer conditions, are typically used year-round. Therefore, selecting tyres that provide excellent performance come rain, hail or shine, along with durability and efficiency, is essential. Both the European tyre label and various magazine and association tests are a useful aid for tyre buyers in this regard.
To compile this year’s list of the best summer tyres, we consulted WhatTyre’s database of over 300,000 tyres and leading European magazine tyre tests. The summer tyre category, focusing on everyday driving, is highly prevalent in the market. Consequently, our analysis centred on the leading tyre sizes in the UK, 205/55 R16 V and 225/45 R17 W/Y. The first size is commonly fitted to vehicles such as the VW Golf, Ford Focus, and Vauxhall Corsa; the second is used by cars like the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The V/W/Y speed ratings indicate a capability of up to 149, 168, and 186 miles per hour, reflecting not only speed but also the power capability needed for modern internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, as well as the increasing number of hybrid and electric vehicles with their additional torque and weight.
Given the cost-of-living concerns that continue to affect many, our analysis also considered the affordability of tyres. We looked for products that offer a balance of performance and cost, making them accessible to price-conscious drivers without significant compromises in everyday driving performance. However, safety performance remains the priority.
WhatTyre Summer Tyre of the Year
Continental PremiumContact 7 (Image: Continental)
During the past year, the Continental PremiumContact 7 has deftly shown what it is capable of, securing one podium finish after another in independent tyre tests – mostly in first place – and building up a robust WhatTyre Tyrescore. Acclaimed for its superior performance across various conditions, the tyre excels in both wet and dry handling, offering dynamic and sporty driving characteristics with precise and responsive steering.
The PremiumContact 7 features outstanding aquaplaning safety reserves, ensuring stability and control even in challenging wet conditions. Additionally, the Continental tyre boasts short braking distances on both wet and dry surfaces, enhancing overall safety.
And then there’s that enviable collection of tyre test silverware. In 2024 alone, Continental PremiumContact 7 has taken top honours or gained a place on the podium in testing conducted by Auto Bild (205/55 R16), Auto Motor und Sport (235/55 R18), Auto Zeitung (225/45R17), Sport Auto (215/40R18), Vi Bilägare (215/55 R17), Reifentester (225/45 R17), and ADAC, ÖAMTC, and TCS (215/55 R17). These successes build upon strong test results during 2023, the tyre’s first full year on the market, and Continental PremiumContact 7 amply deserves the WhatTyre Summer Tyre of the Year 2024 award.
Highly Recommended Tyres
It may not be as sporty as its sibling the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, but we like the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and are pleased to highly recommend it. Goodyear debuted the tyre together with a bold claim – its internal testing showed that thanks to innovative new technologies, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 can achieve up to 50 per cent more miles than its predecessor and 20 per cent better mileage than the next best-tested competitor. The tyre also ticks the boxes in the stopping department – in TÜV SÜD Product Service testing against four premium competitors, the Goodyear tyre had the shortest braking distance on wet and dry roads.
Independent testers agree that the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 offers a good balance of performance. Auto Bild declared the Goodyear tyre winner of its 2022 summer tyre test and also named it “economy champion” that year – and again in 2024. Last year, Auto Bild even voted Goodyear its Top Manufacturer of the Year for Summer Tyres, an accolade that the EfficientGrip Performance 2 solidly contributed towards. Other test wins include the 205/55 R16 V comparative evaluation conducted by motoring associations ADAC, ÖAMTC, and TCS in 2023.
Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 is available in sizes and speed indices for 15- to 20-inch rim diameters. Almost all dimensions come with an EU tyre label A rating for wet grip, and the 205/55R16 94V tyre we looked at is also A-rated for fuel efficiency; other sizes have a B or C rating. The external rolling noise rating is B/69dB.
Hankook Ventus Prime 4 (Image: Hankook)
The latest incarnation of the Hankook Ventus Prime took over from a predecessor that sold more than 20 million units between 2015 and 2022, was original equipment on numerous vehicles, and racked up a number of tyre test honours. Big shoes to fill, but upon introducing Ventus Prime 4, Hankook Tire spoke of generational improvements “in practically all relevant points,” including further optimised handling, rolling resistance, and mileage.
“Safe handling, low wear, high comfort, low tyre noise, and reduced rolling resistance are key performance criteria when it comes to tyres for the discerning frequent driver,” said Hankook, adding that its Ventus Prime series has “consistently met these requirements and has thus become the company’s best-selling summer tyre line in Europe.”
Strong test results, good size availability, and competitive pricing make Ventus Prime 4 a popular choice with tyre buyers. The Hankook tyre offers a good balance of performance and affordability, making it a strong contender for those looking for high-quality summer tyres without the higher price tag associated with some premium-segment rivals.
Commended Tyres
Turanza 6 (Image: Bridgestone)
Bridgestone says the latest flagship tyre in its summer touring line-up “gives drivers control and confidence in stressful and unforeseen conditions, including on a rainy day.” It pairs these claims of best-in-class wet performance (all sizes come with an EU tyre label A rating for wet grip) with superior mileage and improved fuel/energy efficiency. The results of internal benchmark testing using the reference size 205/55 R16 show the Bridgestone Turanza 6 delivers 22 per cent better mileage than the prior-generation T005. Rolling resistance is four per cent lower, with selected sizes gaining an EU tyre label A grade. Featuring Bridgestone’s Enliten technology, Turanza 6 covers 16- to 22-inch rim diameter sizes.
One of the newer tyres here, the Firestone Roadhawk 2 Enliten comes with the promise of “best-in-class wet grip” as well as improved mileage and a greater than ten per cent reduction in rolling resistance. Firestone also positions the newcomer as an “EV-ready tyre.” Initially available in 17- to 21-inch sizes to cover 90 per cent of the market, with 16-inch sizes arriving in 2025 and boosting the Roadhawk 2 Enliten range to 112 variations.
An early tyre test success came in this year’s Auto Zeitung size 225/45 R17 test, with a “highly recommendable” rating, earning the publication’s praise as an inexpensive all-rounder. A great choice for drivers seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance, Firestone Roadhawk 2 Enliten is a WhatTyre Commended tyre in 2024.
Falken ZE310 Ecorun (Image: Falken)
Several years have passed since Falken first added the Ziex ZE310 Ecorun to its portfolio, and the Ziex ZE320 arrived shortly before this year’s awards. The new tyre holds much potential, but the ZE310 Ecorun still represents a competitive mid-range segment tyre, offering a good balance of performance and cost-efficiency. With 131 sizes available for 14- to 19-inch rim diameters, Falken Ziex ZE310 Ecorun is suited to a wide range of fitments.
The Michelin Primacy 4+ summer tyre is designed for a wide range of vehicles, catering to everyday travel and long trips. Its key feature is enhanced wet braking performance when worn, ensuring safety throughout the tyre’s lifespan. This performance was validated by TÜV SÜD testing in June 2021, where the tyre was compared against three other premium brands in size 205/55 R16 91V on a VW Golf 8, both new and worn to the European Tread Wear Indicator level.
Michelin attributes the tyre’s superior performance to its EverGrip technology, which uses two layers of rubber to maintain water evacuation from the tread even as it wears. The design philosophy behind the Primacy 4+ focuses on maintaining safety “from the first mile to the last” and providing a long service life. The tyre is available in 117 sizes in the UK, for rim diameters ranging from 16 to 21 inches.
Toyo Proxes Comfort (Image: Toyo)
Runner-up in last year’s Auto Express summer tyre test with an overall rating of 98.9 per cent, Toyo Proxes Comfort is developed to “provide premium levels of stability and comfort for relaxed and enjoyable everyday driving.” Tyre tester Kim Adams commented that “a balanced performance across all disciplines pays dividends, and the Proxes Comfort mixed a strong performance in the dry with decent results in the wet tests.”
Toyo says the tyre’s new tread compound and internal structure provide enhanced stability at speed along with confident handling and excellent braking. The range is available in 64 sizes for 14- to 20-inch rim diameters.
The Kumho Ecsta HS52, successor to the test-winner HS51, features a new high-grip tread compound, asymmetric tread design, and 3D interlocking sipes that combine to offer, when compared to the prior-generation tyre, superior braking on wet and dry surfaces, better wet grip, and increased mileage. Kumho’s latest tyre is yet to gain a coveted test win but performed very well in both the prestigious Auto Bild summer tyre test as well as in the comparative evaluation conducted by European motoring associations ADAC, ÖAMTC, and TCS. In the latter, the HS52 was one of only three products to receive a ‘Good’ rating.
With a range covering sizes to fit models from superminis and small family saloons to large executive cars and CUVs, the Ecsta HS52’s tread features a robust block pattern which allows the tyre to maintain consistently high levels of grip, whilst delivering a quiet, smooth, and comfortable ride. In addition, the tyre’s rigid, powerful shoulder blocks enhance steering performance for maximum driving safety.
Pirelli Cinturato P7C2 (Image: Pirelli)
The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 (P7C2) is an advanced summer tyre designed for premium cars. It builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering improved performance in key areas such as wet and dry handling, braking, and rolling resistance. The tyre’s enhanced compound and tread design ensure optimal grip and stability, making it suitable for high-performance driving while also focusing on fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
Additionally, the P7C2 features Pirelli’s innovative Seal Inside technology, which allows the tyre to seal punctures of up to 4mm in diameter, ensuring continued safety and mobility. This tyre is recognised for its balanced performance, making it a reliable choice for drivers seeking comfort, safety, and efficiency in various driving conditions.
