Michelin UHP tires top CR ratings

YONKERS, N.Y. (Aug. 20, 2013) — Michelin-brand tires snagged the top spots in Consumer Reports' latest ratings of ultra-high-performance (UHP) summer and all-season tires.

The magazine tested 49 models of UHP summer and all-season and performance winter tires for braking and handling on dry and wet pavement, resistance to hydroplaning, and grip on snow and icy surfaces (for all-season and winter tires). The tests also measured rolling resistance and tread life evaluations.

The top-rated tires included:

• UHP summer tires: The Pirelli P Zero and Michelin Pilot Super Sport topped a list of 21 tires. CR said the P Zero performed well for dry and wet braking and handling while the Pilot Super Sport—the top-rated tire in the last test cycle—provided handling on dry and wet surfaces as well as "the best tread life of any summer tire we tested."

• UHP all-season tires: The Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 excelled in dry braking and handling, although its tread life didn't match some other all-season tires, according to the magazine. Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric All Season came in second with slightly lower dry braking and handling, but offered "impressive all around grip, commendable handling and long tread life," CR said.

• Performance winter tires: The Nokian WR G3 and the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 topped the list while the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 was recommended for routine driving in the snow due to "outstanding winter grip, though at the expense of handling and grip on cleared roads," CR said.

To access CR's "Tire Buying Guide," click here.

The magazine's tire ratings are available by clicking here.