15 best summer tires R16
Car tires play an important role, providing not only safe handling, but also a certain level of comfort. These characteristics are especially important for rubber from R16 and more. As a rule, this size is used by crossovers, SUVs and passenger cars of the middle class and above.
The review presents the best tires, in the size range of which there are several R16 positions. The selection and placement in the rating was carried out based on the characteristics and properties of the models carried out by independent auditors of tests, and, of course, the feedback from the owners who preferred one of the presented brands of rubber.
Best budget R16 summer tires
In this category, the reader is presented with the best summer tires in the R16 size range. Among the models there are also the most popular domestic tires on the market.
5 Viatti Strada Asimmetrico V-130
For a comfortable ride on city roads and federal highways, the Viatti Strada Asimmetrico V-130 tires are perfect. The reinforced structure of the inner part of the tread provides good acceleration dynamics and braking performance on straight sections. The blocks of the working area are separated by wide drainage systems that can successfully cope with large flows of water and maintain stability on the road surface.
The side part of the pattern is made in the form of alternating blocks of different rigidity, which significantly reduced the susceptibility of rubber to impacts of asphalt joints and small irregularities, even at high speeds. For crossovers with their increased gross weight, this is a significant advantage, as travel becomes much more comfortable. This is confirmed not only by the owners in their reviews. Za Rulem conducted independent comparative tests of the Viatti Strada Asimmetrico V-130 the following year after the model entered the market. And if beyond the ability to control it was not revealed, then in terms of cross-country ability the result is quite good - these summer tires behave confidently in weak off-road and on a dirt road.
4 Matador MP-44 Elite 3
This summer tire can be seen on KIA Cerato and Ford Mondeo, Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. The owners of the VAZ 2110 or Renault Logan will not give up the Matador MP-44 Elite 3 either. Unfortunately, crossovers in this model are not provided with sizes, but for more than a hundred passenger car brands, the tire is very relevant. Judging by the reviews, the tire was able to "touch" the owners with high quality workmanship, a good level of acoustic comfort and a hardy sidewall.
In terms of its driving characteristics, the Matador MP-44 Elite 3 under certain conditions is not much inferior to the more solid ContiPremiumContact. And this is confirmed not only by users. Judging by the comparative tests carried out 2 years ago by the domestic automobile magazine "Za Rulem", tires in the size of R16 showed better grip on unpaved surfaces, excellent handling during high-speed maneuvering on wet roads and a positive effect on reducing fuel consumption. Of course, there are some weaknesses in the budget model. The tires do not exhibit the best braking distances. Also, at high speed, deviations from the course are possible - the driver cannot relax, and he has to steer from time to time.
3 Cordiant Sport 3
The first serious test of the Cordiant Sport 3 tire took place on the Spanish Formula 1 Circuit de Barcelona - not all budget tires start their journey to the consumer from such a powerful launch pad. The asymmetrical tread pattern is ideal for aggressive riding. Effective traction on the asphalt surface of the track allowed to demonstrate excellent acceleration dynamics and short braking distances.
Good directional stability is ensured by the central ribs with wide drainage channels, which, by the way, are made using Sport-Mix technology (from a different mixture of rubber mass).In addition to receiving a European "B" rating for wet grip, Cordiant Sport 3 tires are economical and have low noise levels. According to the owners who use this summer tires on sedans or light crossovers, it turns out that domestic tires in terms of performance can be easily compared with Continental.
2 Kumho Ecowing ES01 KH27
The fairly reasonable cost of the Kumho Ecowing ES01 KH27 tires does not affect the performance of this product. A simple tread pattern with wide water drainage channels in the center creates optimal conditions for reliable traction on any road. Rubber simply does not have any particular drawbacks in handling and braking. But in terms of ride comfort, the tires of the South Korean brand can compete on equal terms with the elite products of the market, whose cost is two or even more times higher. In addition, in the budget segment, this model also has a huge impact on the growth of car economy.
The tires will be of interest to owners of such cars as Ford Fiesta and LADA Granta (Kalina) Sport (195/50 / R16). Dimension 205/65 / R16 is suitable for the best domestic crossover LADA 4x4 Niva (VAZ 2121, 21213), as well as for commercial cars such as Fiat Ducato and Mercedes Vito, Ford Transit and other models. Owners who, when buying summer tires, made a choice in favor of Kumho Ecowing ES01 KH27, point out only one of the shortcomings - the nylon cord of the sidewall of the tires makes them too soft. This, of course, gives a certain degree of comfort, however, when conducting tests for handling, these tires did not show much difference from many budget counterparts. Nevertheless, owners who value a soft and comfortable ride stubbornly choose this particular model - an affordable price and predictability in management are undoubtedly its strengths.
1 Toyo Nano Energy 3
These tires will provide the owner with not only a decent level of comfort, but also allow decent fuel savings. These characteristics are the most pronounced. In addition, in urban operation, these features of Toyo Nano Energy 3 rubber are most in demand by crossover owners. The most popular sizes of this tire on the market are 225/60 / R16 (installed on Mitsubishi Outlander, Audi Allroad, Mazda MPV, VW Transporter and other cars). Tires with parameters 205/50 / R16 are also in demand. They are perfect for such popular models in Russia as VAZ 2110 (2111), Renault Logan, MG 3 Cross, Ford Focus, etc.
Owners in their reviews express satisfaction with the properties of these tires. They hide small irregularities of the road surface well, but the "tenacity" in turns and during high-speed maneuvering leaves much to be desired because of the rather soft sidewall. They are also resistant to aquaplaning. However, according to the test results, Toyo Nano Energy 3 summer tires do not show outstanding performance. Rather, it is a budget "average" for comfortable daily trips, nothing more.
Best mid-range R16 summer tires
Mid-range tires for the summer season are represented by models from well-known tire manufacturers. All products are of high quality and have decent performance characteristics, which gives the models the full right to participate in this rating.
5 Gislaved Ultra Speed
A distinctive feature of these summer tires is the low noise level and excellent steering response. The low rolling resistance coefficient makes the rubber quite economical, which is noticeable on long journeys. Owner reviews also often indicate the softness of the side. This feature of rubber manifests itself only at speeds above 120 km / h - the control ceases to be sharp, and all wheel movements acquire some roll.
Despite this, the Gislaved Ultra Speed holds the road quite well, but it is impossible to boast of outstanding results, except for the level of comfort - it is just at the height.Even comparative tests carried out in 2015 by the Swedish publication Teknikens Varld revealed only average speed maneuvering ability of the tire, as well as not the best braking performance. Nevertheless, for the average consumer who owns a small crossover or light commercial vehicle, the Gislaved Ultra Speed is quite interesting. With a relaxed driving style, the average performance does not look so bad, especially since they, in addition, are quite effectively offset by the attractive cost of these tires.
4 Uniroyal RainExpert 3
In 2016, the popular Autocentre magazine conducted comparative tests of ten tires, among which was Uniroyal RainExpert 3. Having become the best tire in wet handling, this tire took 5th place in the overall standings. The fault was not the most effective grip and, as a result, the braking distance exceeded the indicator of the test leader by 4.4 meters.
Nevertheless, the summer tires Uniroyal RainExpert 3 proved to be worthy of participation in our ranking. Reviews of owners who opted for this rubber do not contain any special claims. Rather, on the contrary - there is a low noise level, better resistance to aquaplaning, and with a calm driving style, no critical deviations in control and during braking were detected. As for the high resistance of tires to wear, this feature will definitely delight the owners - with proper operation (periodic rearrangement of wheels in places, control of tire pressure and speed), the rubber will serve flawlessly for 3-4 seasons, no less.
3 Vredestein Sportrac 5
Vredestein Sportrac 5 has excellent road holding at high speed, provides predictable handling and braking, both on dry asphalt and on wet roads. Having driven this rubber for the first time after purchase, the owners are pleasantly amazed. Even in the reviews, they talk about it - the smoothness and precision of the steering are simply admired by many. Despite the excessive softness of the sidewall, the tires are resistant to strong road impacts, and even in aggressive driving mode they literally “swallow” potholes and such irregularities of city streets as tram tracks.
When mounting the wheel, the owner also has some pleasant moments - when balancing the tire, it costs minimal loads, which is an excellent result for the R16. Side cuts and hernias are rare for this rubber. The owners of VW Touareg, JEEP Cherokee, Nissan Navara and other crossovers (SUVs) were pleased with the capabilities of the Vredestein Sportrac 5, the only drawback of which may be only a slightly increased noise level. However, for summer tires, which provide excellent maneuverability and effective braking, this is not essential. And if you do not trust the reviews, then the ADAC tests, the veracity of which there is no reason to doubt, recognized the Vredestein Sportrac 5 in 2016 as the undisputed leader, showing the best results on the wet road, as well as as the most balanced tire.
2 Nokian Hakka Green 2
This summer tire is for those car enthusiasts who prioritize predictability and safety. Amazing wet handling has been proven in numerous tests. High-speed maneuvering on the Nokian Hakka Green 2 is called by many drivers the most confident and reliable in reviews, although the steering wheel with this rubber cannot be called sharp. When hitting a dirt road, the confidence of control does not disappear anywhere, but in hard off-road it is better not to test it.
Many people appreciate the reinforced side part - slalom on curbs in urban conditions does not lead to sad consequences, such as cuts and hernias. The tire handles road bumps surprisingly well. With regard to wear resistance, this parameter is sacrificed to the above characteristics. Many owners would like the Nokian Hakka Green 2 to last longer, but miracles do not happen.Nevertheless, for light commercial vehicles and small crossovers, this tire model can confidently provide not only the best handling on the summer road, but also the highest possible driving safety.
1 Hankook Ventus Prime 2
This tire almost simultaneously became a participant in the comparative tests of the Polish edition of Motor and the domestic Za Rulem. It happened in 2015, and now the opinions of experts can be safely added to the reviews of numerous users, confirming the data obtained from double testing. If in terms of behavior on a wet road Hankook Ventus Prime 2 turned out to be far from the leaders of the tests, then in terms of noise and efficiency (rolling resistance coefficient) it was practically unmatched (among the participants were tires Pirelli, Michelin, Dunlop, Continental, Goodyear and others).
At the same time, the braking distance from 80 km / h on a wet highway is 25.3 m (on a dry one - 36.8 m), which is only 40 cm inferior to the leaders of the test in both cases. Owners who use the Hankook Ventus Prime 2 in normal driving conditions on Russian roads are generally satisfied with the behavior of these tires. Effective braking on any surface (except for dirt roads), minimal noise level, good road holding at speed. The weak side can be considered a low resistance to aquaplaning - it is better to drive sections with water obstacles carefully, and preferably, slowing down.
The best premium R16 summer tires
This category contains tires with R16, which have the best performance. They are obedient in handling, quickly stop an expensive and powerful car, and have a sufficient margin of safety to withstand extreme loads without any consequences.
5 Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance
The tire is characterized by good balance and extraordinary lightness, which is quite noticeable on sizes R16 and above. The high-performance tire has the most attractive price, which looks slightly understated against the background of the model's characteristics. When designing the working surface, the SoundComfort technology was used, which reduces the resonance of air flows moving between the tread blocks and, thereby, makes the wheel work as comfortable as possible.
In their reviews, the owners also point to the economy of this rubber. The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance tire is easy to control and listens to the slightest steering movement, instantly changing the trajectory of the car. High-speed entry into turns will not leave any owner indifferent - the tire seems to work out every invested ruble, demonstrating amazing stability. On straight-line distances, it holds the road well, even at top speeds. Teknikens Varld magazine (Sweden) conducted tests in 2016, during which this rubber took first place in the overall standings. The high results were confirmed in all tests (there were a total of 6 races), according to the results of which EfficientGrip Performance can be safely considered the most balanced premium tire. It brakes equally well on both wet and dry surfaces.
4 Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue
Tests conducted by Vi Bilagare magazine in 2016 showed that the Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue (205/55 R16) has the best braking distances on wet pavement (14.8 m). On a dry highway, the rubber just 90 cm fell short of the leader's performance (the same as in our rating). In addition, there were no weak abilities in resisting aquaplaning, quick responsiveness to steering and high accuracy - no failures and imposing maneuvering. However, in sharp turns, there is a slip into a skid, so the driver should control the speed of the maneuver.
In general, the rubber makes a good impression, which is confirmed by the reviews of the owners. Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue “holds the punch” well - if you hit the holes on the track, there are many chances to remain without any consequences. Despite this, as well as the sharpness of the steering, the sidewall of the tire is noticeably softer than its closest competitors in terms of rating.However, due to the peculiarity of the tread (it is configured in such a way as to dampen vibrations from small irregularities in the roads), the rubber differs in noise level - it is clearly noticeable, and with an increase in speed it quickly turns into a not strong, but continuous hum.
3 Bridgestone Potenza RE003 Adrenalin
Tires for those who like aggressive driving have a special tread structure, thanks to which not only an intensive removal of moisture from the contact patch is provided, but also an increase in grip on the road in tight turns. The asymmetrical directionality of the shoulder pattern not only effectively suppresses wheel vibrations, but also provides excellent maneuverability. In addition to these advantages, the special properties of the Bridgestone Potenza RE003 Adrenalin tire were obtained through an innovative technology for preparing a rubber compound with an increased silica content. This significantly slows down tread wear, even when driving aggressively, and improves grip on dry and wet asphalt.
Reviews from crossover and luxury sedan owners using tires of this model in sizes from R16 and up, in addition to the above, noted such operational features as easy wheel balancing, resistance to side damage and excellent braking. It should be said that this model was previously exclusively track, for sports races. The Japanese Formula 1 team scored a total of 175 victories with them, which, better than any magazine test, confirms the excellent performance of the tires.
2 Continental ContiPremiumContact 5
This model is very popular among Russian motorists, which was appreciated by the manufacturer itself - Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 is presented on the market in 73 dimensional modifications, and can serve the owners of crossovers and passenger sedans. The presence of a movable sidewall allows you to overcome road obstacles (from serious potholes and joints, to tram tracks) with a level of comfort inaccessible to other models. Another feature of a summer tire is that it retains its performance when the temperature drops. In the off-season, she is capable of adequate behavior even at 3-5 ° C.
The tire provides a smooth ride and excellent handling at high speeds. And this is confirmed not only in the reviews of the owners. Vi Bilagare conducted a series of comparison tests in 2017 with the Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 205/55 R16. This model took first place, showing excellent balance of performance and the shortest braking distances. The tire was only slightly inferior in resistance to aquaplaning, but this did not affect its popularity at all - the best level of safety completely smoothes out a slight deviation from the ideal.
1 Michelin Primacy 4
Summer tires Michelin Primacy 4, which replaced its predecessor (Primacy 3), again returned the brand to the top of the tire market. The tests carried out revealed that the tire has the shortest braking distance on wet asphalt (13.5 m), the second position on dry (with a lag of only 10 cm) and excellent stability during high-speed maneuvering on any asphalt road. For powerful business and premium vehicles, as well as sports crossovers, this tire is the best choice, as it provides a high level of safety at high speeds. The car enters the turns, as if on rails, stops rooted to the spot, and it is a pleasure to carry out lane changes on the Michelin Primacy 4.
User reviews, one way or another, confirm this information, adding positive assessments of the tire's wear resistance - its resource with a quiet ride (and the rubber is designed for this) may well last for 3-4 summer seasons, or even more. Wet stability is also a strong point of this tire. The only thing that can be considered a disadvantage of rubber is its high rolling resistance, which leads to an increase in fuel consumption over long distances. But this feature is a side effect of security, and none of the owners is going to reduce its level for the sake of economy.
