Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Yokohama AVID ENVigor (W-Speed Rated)

Monday, January 28, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Yokohama AVID ENVigor (W-Speed Rated)Reviewer's Overall Rating: 6.6

2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 Sedan
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Miles driven on tires: 20,000
Location: Eldersberg, MD
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 20,000 Miles on Tires
January 24, 2013

Considering that these tires are LRR (low rolling resistance,) the low treadwear and improve MPG they offer is nice and rated high. But due to the hard compound the dry traction suffers and doesn't seem deserving of their "high performance" title; and they're just about on par with other all season tires in the dry traction category. Wet traction is great and seems better than my last all season tires (Pirelli P6s.)

Snow traction... for a "High Performance" all season tire these do not fit their title. They seem to lack that certain "bite" to go through the snow. They've been put through heavy & slushy wet snow, light $ dry snow, and hard packed snow; and these do not excel and just barely get by in snowy conditions.

Overall not a bad tire for commuting, and in that respect they are very capable. But, for spirited driving they do not seem to be very "high perform", then again you can't expect to get the best of all worlds in a single tire... Overall I'd say these deserve 7 out of 10.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Continental ContiProContact

Monday, January 28, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Continental ContiProContactReviewer's Overall Rating: 8.8

2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
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Miles driven on tires: 26,500
Location: Lake St Louis, MO
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 26,500 Miles on Tires
January 24, 2013

These tires came with my car, the tread wear on them are 400. Im currently at 26,500 on the tires. The tires are just about at the wear indicator, they still handle ok in light snow, and rain. A good amount of traction has been lost, but i expected that since im at 26k miles. For an all season tire i would highly recommend these. They have great ride comfort and are extremely quiet on the highway. I think i can still get another 3k miles out of the tires, then i need to grab some new ones. This time I'm going to try and find an all season that's a little stickier, since i like to hit the twisty roads with buddies.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Continental ExtremeContact DWS

Thursday, January 24, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Continental ExtremeContact DWSReviewer's Overall Rating: 7.91

2011 Ford Fusion
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Miles driven on tires: 5,000
Location: Lake Hopatcong, NJ
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 5,000 Miles on Tires
January 21, 2013

I originally bought two sets of the ExtremeContact DWS for my previous vehicle, a 2008 VW Jetta GLI and had no reservation in installing them on my 2011 Ford Fusion Sport. Aside from treadlife (I averaged 35-40k with regular rotations and alignments) I have no serious complaints with this tire. As with any all-season you give up the best of summer tires and the best of snow tires however the ExtremeContact offers good all around performance for most driving conditions and is well matched to high performance sedan. Dry performance is acceptable albeit a noticable notch below a summer tire, as would be expected. Wet and light snow conditions are where this tire really excels. Noise and ride quality are also what is expected from a high performance tire and is a fair trade for the increased cornering and all-season capabilities. Prices are a bit high but are in line with other tires in this segment (Ultra Hi-Performance All Season). I would definitely recommend this tire... especially to anyone else who has to put up with some winter driving and is too lazy (like me) to change over to snow tires every year.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Bridgestone Blizzak WS70Reviewer's Overall Rating: 9.09

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
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Miles driven on tires: 8,000
Location: Buffalo, NY
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 8,000 Miles on Tires
January 09, 2013

Damm Global warming, haven't really had enough snow here in Buffalo, New York to REALLY test these tires over the last two years. Six inches of snow is not enough, especially when the snow melts almost as soon as it hits the ground.
The first two winters I owned the VW Jetta TDI I ran to Goodyear M+S all year. They were fair in the winter but Bridgestone snows did make a big difference in years 3 & 4 when we did have snow.

I'm happy to have the snows when we drive up to Canada or Elliotville for Skiing. I hate it when those dog sleds pass you on the 401 and Queen E.

Firestone's Precision Tires Hit the Mark

Monday, January 21, 2013 by Steve Huffman

Firestone's line of Precision tires is offered in two models: the Precision Touring and Precision Sport. Each tire is well received as the Sport is a top ten ranked tire in the High Performance All-Season category and the Touring model sits at number two in the Standard Touring All-Season category.

The Precision Touring is designed to feature many good characteristics, including a quiet and comfortable ride. It's available in 29 popular sizes ranging between 15" and 17". Featuring a 560 treadwear rating and a 70,000-mile treadlife warranty, this tire is a great option for passenger sedans and coupes, as well as minivans and crossover vehicles. When we tested the tire a couple of summers ago, we liked it for its traction in the wet and stable handling. To see our complete report on this tire, read "Testing New Standard Touring All-Season Tires."

Firestone's Precision Sport offers great handling and responsiveness. Designed for sports cars, coupes and sedans, this tire comes in H- and V-speed rated options. With 23 sizes available between 14" and 17", the Precision Sport also comes with a 40,000-mile treadlife warranty. The tire has performed well for many drivers. Take a look at what a few of our customers are saying about their experience with this tire:

"These tires have proven to be excellent in all conditions. On the highway they are quiet and responsive, I am very, very happy with them!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2006 Ford Focus ZX4 SE

"Great tire. Superb wet traction. Overall, a great tire that I would definitely recommend and buy again." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2000 Jetta GL 2.0 4cyl

Firestone Precision Touring
Firestone Precision Touring
Firestone Precision Sport
Firestone Precision Sport


If you're looking for an exceptional value in your next tire purchase, be sure to look at the Precision Sport and Precision Touring from Firestone. You'll be glad you did!

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the General Altimax Arctic

Thursday, January 17, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


General Altimax ArcticReviewer's Overall Rating: 8.8

2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI
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Miles driven on tires: 500
Location: Cranston, RI
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 500 Miles on Tires
January 15, 2013

My car was better with these tires in last months 8 inches of snow than my GMC 2500 HD 4x4 with all seasons. I led a snow plow through a neighborhood and never activated the ESP or ABS in normal driving. I was only able to get the front wheels to break traction one time with heavy acceleration from a start. I have no doubt that I will be able to commute without any concern for traction and safety this season. I would highly recomend these tires for anyone living in an area with frequent snow.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the General Altimax HP

Thursday, January 17, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


General Altimax HPReviewer's Overall Rating: 4.25

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
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Miles driven on tires: 30,000
Location: Rapid City, SD
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 30,000 Miles on Tires
December 29, 2012

I bought these tires given the fairly good reviews. I also had a set on a Pontiac Grand Prix I once owned and was extremely happy with them, especially in snow. However, I am convinced that this is not the same tire I had before. They did not wear well at all. The tires were initially very quiet, but by 10,000 miles, they had become very noisy. At least one had developed a thumping noise which was of course amplified when on the highway. The edge of the tire thread also had noticeable cracking by 20,0000 miles, I'm guessing due to poor wear. The tires handled very poorly in snow. Even at low speed, I really had to watch curves. I will certainly not buy these tires again and will probably steer clear of General Tire for good.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

Tuesday, January 15, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 Reviewer's Overall Rating: 6.45
 
 

2011 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI
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Miles driven on tires: 4,000
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 4,000 Miles on Tires
December 04, 2012

This tire was highly reviewed, but the JSW TDI with a manual is a poor match for this tire, at least in Utah. I had them on for one winter and drove only 4000 miles and the ones on the front are half used. The traction wasn't as good as expected either, though it doesn't help the TDI has a light switch for torque delivery. Even with the nonlinear power delivery i was surprised how slippery these felt under braking and cornering. All of this could be the car too, but the Pilot Exalto A/S i have on most of the year feel just as solid braking and cornering in the snow (though VASTLY inferior in the traction department). perhaps its just the car, but I had had higher hopes for these tires. I will go with Michelin or Conti next time, as I have had good luck with them.

 

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Michelin Pilot Super Sport

Tuesday, January 15, 2013 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Michelin Pilot Super SportReviewer's Overall Rating: 9

2007 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0T
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Miles driven on tires: 10,000
Location: Montréal, QC
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 10,000 Miles on Tires
January 10, 2013

to much for my car, the best in any circumstances, best tire ever! amazing

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Michelin X-Ice Xi3

Monday, December 24, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Michelin X-Ice Xi3Reviewer's Overall Rating: 9.56

2011 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI
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Miles driven on tires: 500
Location: Dane County, WI
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 500 Miles on Tires
December 23, 2012

Just got 21" of snow. Wife took these tires for their first drive through hardpack, drifts, slush and unplowed roads. She was able to drive at a reasonable speed and stay on the road where others had spun off.

Not too noisy on dry pavement at highway speeds. Handling is a bit sloppy around corners when temps are above 45F... be prepared for understeer. Have taken a 2-3 mpg hit on fuel economy, but it's a small price to pay for the increased traction and improved handling, compared to the OEM all-seasons these tires replaced.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the General Altimax Arctic

Wednesday, December 5, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


General Altimax ArcticReviewer's Overall Rating: 9.55

2013 Volkswagen Jetta S
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Miles driven on tires: 1,000
Location: Stowe, VT
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 1,000 Miles on Tires
December 01, 2012

This tire is the best I've ever used in 45 years of driving in Vermont winters!

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Kumho Solus KH16

Tuesday, December 4, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Kumho Solus KH16Reviewer's Overall Rating: 7.45

2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.9 Tdi
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Miles driven on tires: 65,000
Location: Shrewsbury, NJ
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 65,000 Miles on Tires
November 29, 2012

After driving 65,000 miles on these I am pleased. They wore well, handled well and were quiet. I do mostly highway miles in NJ in a variety of weather. In winter I swap in a set of dedicated snow tires, but in early season storms these did pretty well until the wore down a bit (its not their strongest suit). I will be putting them on the short list of next set of tires. For the price you will not be disappointed.

General AltiMAX Arctic: A Cost-Effective and Capable Winter / Snow Tire

Tuesday, December 4, 2012 by Marshall Wisler

Having a lower price point than many winter / snow tires, some customers question the effectiveness of the General AltiMAX Arctic. This tire is perhaps not as soft as certain Studless Ice & Snow tires like the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 or Michelin X-Ice Xi3, and it may give up a small amount of ice traction. However, this Studdable Winter / Snow tire has proven quite effective for multiple seasons and continues to get strong reviews by consumers.

As a studdable tire, the AltiMAX Arctic can be sold with studs to further increase traction in the most severe winter conditions. While studded tires are certainly not for everyone and have some negative features, such as reduced dry road handling and increased road noise, the ability to add studs is optional and available for those who desire. It's also important to check with local law enforcement officials to see if studded tires are allowed in your area. To learn more about how studded tires may or may not be right for you this winter, read "Studded Tires for Winter Driving."

As mentioned earlier, customers have been giving the General AltiMAX Arctic great reviews. Take a look at what some of them are saying about their experience with this tire:

"This tire is the best I've ever used in 45 years of driving in Vermont winters!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta S

"Awesome snow tire. Not only was it one of the cheaper tires in my size, but one of the best reviewed - and I can see why. My rear-wheel drive BMW got around our 6", one-day snow accumulation as good as any of the 4WD trucks I've had in the past. It is a beast of a tire in the snow, and still very quiet on the highway. If this tire can get a BMW through a North Dakota winter, I'd be confident using it anywhere!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 BMW 330CI Performance Package

"Fantastic winter tire at a great value price. Ride and noise are good to very good. Ride and cornering are amazing being better than the factory standard tire on this vehicle. Snow traction is good in all conditions and really snow plows through deeper conditions. Ice performance is very good. I have purchased this tire for two vehicles to date and recommend it to my friends as an affordable option for a great winter tire." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2012 Nissan Altima Sedan

To see if the General AltiMAX Arctic tire is right for your application this winter, shop by vehicle.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Kumho Ecsta 4X

Thursday, November 8, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Kumho Ecsta 4XReviewer's Overall Rating: 8

2008 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
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Miles driven on tires: 25,000
Location: Arlington, TX
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 25,000 Miles on Tires
October 30, 2012

Excellent tire! I needed a performance tire for a good price and all season capabilities and could not have made a better choice. Dey traction is superb; wet traction is confidence-inspiring and treadwear is excellent. I made the mistake of not rotating them properly (I.e. at all) and the fronts wore down to 4/32nds after 23k, but that's my fault because the rears are still going strong and show signs of lasting another 20k easy. Road noise is moderate to low, but not intrusive or annoying; it'll never get in the way of normal conversation. They take corners like a slot car, have a W speed rating, and are as comfy as anything I've experienced in 25 years of driving! I have ben buying from the TireRack for more than ten years and have never been disappointedi the wealth of information available is first class and makes buying a breze.

Steel Wheels in Stock for VW GTI

Wednesday, October 24, 2012 by Ben Rooney

The current Volkswagen GTI is one of the most popular cars in the hatchback segment. It usually comes equipped with either summer tires from Bridgestone or all-season options from Pirelli or Dunlop. While these tires work well in the warmer months, they do not have much focus on snow traction. Which means purchasing a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package is your best bet for handling the toughest conditions winter has to offer.

For the driving enthusiast on a budget, buying steel wheels with your winter GTI tires can help keep the total cost down. Tire Rack currently has 16x6.5" steel wheels in stock that fit the GTI priced at $58 each (price and availability accurate as of 10/19/12). These wheels will not only fit the GTI, but many other Volkswagen and Audi applications using the 5x112 bolt pattern, including the A3, A4, new (2012+) Beetle, Passat, Golf and Jetta.

Winter weather hasn't yet arrived, but winter / snow tire season is in full swing. Many winter items are stocked seasonally, and October is often the month where we have the widest selection in stock. So be prepared this winter by purchasing early so you'll get the tires and wheels you want.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Bridgestone Turanza Serenity

Tuesday, October 23, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.

Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Reviewer's Overall Rating: 9.09
 
 

2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.9 Tdi
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Miles driven on tires: 21,000
Location: Walkerton, IN
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 21,000 Miles on Tires
October 14, 2012

I have 21k miles on them and they look like new. Best tire I have bought in years. Putting a new set on our 03 passat this week. Unbelievable traction the car corners like it is on a rail, got them before winter last year and they did very well. For a jetta with five inches of ground clearance. Drove all summer hardly no wear showing. I will be purchasing these as long as they make them.
 

 

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Continental ExtremeContact DWS

Wednesday, October 17, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Continental ExtremeContact DWSReviewer's Overall Rating: 9.12

2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen
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Miles driven on tires: 8,000
Location: CENTER HARBOR, NH
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 8,000 Miles on Tires
September 26, 2012

Only 8K so treadwear is not readily apparent. Tires seem excellent in all conditions(have not been in deep snow). Getting some jitter in the steering wheel, but only at some times when over 60 mph. Balance seems good; could be road surface, but may be the tire tread design. Not certain yet.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Kumho Ecsta 4X

Wednesday, October 17, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.


Kumho Ecsta 4XReviewer's Overall Rating: 7.88

2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
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Miles driven on tires: 600
Location: Washington , DC
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 600 Miles on Tires
October 15, 2012

Great first impression, quiet, yet firm. I am very hard on tires as I drive like I am in Germany, only time will tell, but for the moment I am happy with these tires. They have handled well in the rain which makes me feel secure. Dry handling is very good so far. I will write another review as soon as we get some snow.

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Michelin Defender

Tuesday, October 9, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.

Michelin Defender Reviewer's Overall Rating: 9.5
 
 

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
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Miles driven on tires: 8,700
Location: West of Boston, MA
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 8,700 Miles on Tires
October 06, 2012

Been driving for 40 years and bought many tires. This tire without question has been the quitest I have ever had. Did not really believe others that have said the same until I tried them. Bought for the treat life and got quitness as a side benefit

 

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Michelin Primacy MXV4

Monday, October 8, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.

Michelin Primacy MXV4 Reviewer's Overall Rating: 9.71
 
 

2005 Honda Accord Sedan LX 4cyl
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Miles driven on tires: 50
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Driving Condition: Average

Initial Review, 50 Miles on Tires
October 06, 2012

I just got these tires for my Honda accord. I have had them in the past on a 2001 VW Jetta and loved them.
The tires are quiet, handle well and are just what I would expect from a premium tire. Thanks