We test them at our track in Connecticut for wet and dry braking and handling, ride comfort and quietness, and resistance to hydroplaning (when water gets between the tire and the pavement). We perform our snow-traction tests at our Auto Test Center and in northern Michigan. Ice-braking evaluations are performed at a skating rink.
We also commission outside labs to measure each tire’s rolling resistance, which affects fuel economy, and run extensive 16,000-mile treadwear tests on public roads in western Texas. The results from those real-world tests are used to predict tread life, enabling us to offer buying advice based on actual miles driven instead of government ratings or manufacturer promises.
The best car tires, featured below, can steer you in the right direction. (If you own an SUV or a pickup truck, we have separate picks just for you.) Bear in mind that not every tire is available in every size, and you may have specific performance priorities, such as hydroplaning resistance and wet grip in especially rainy areas.
Our dynamic ratings chart allows you to fine-tune your selection based on criteria that matter most to you, and our tire finder will match tires to your specific car.
Detailed ratings on these best tires and dozens more are available if you’re a CR member.
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