6 Best Autocross Tires
In this article I will be sharing a list of best autocross tires, that we have tested and came up with their pros and cons.If reading autocross tire reviews is your thing, you are on a right place.
Stay tunned and by the end of this video you will be able to find good autocross tires.
Top Pick
YOKOHAMA 285/30R20
4.4/5
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- Heavy grip on dry roads and tracks.
- Supper handling when driving.
- Great response time and braking distance.
- High performance.
Budget Pick
Federal 595RS-RR
4.9/5
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- Marvelous grip and traction.
- Great in wet conditions.
- Quick reactions.
- More grip and an improved design.
- Good track performance.
- Affordable.
Value to Money
MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 S
5/5
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- Exceptional traction.
- Great high-speed stability.
- 30,000-mile treadwear warranty.
- Amazing handling ability.
Why Do We Need Autocross Tires?
Autocross is the perfect way to enjoy your vehicle’s performance without stressing about safety. In addition, autocross driving will allow you to better understand your car, especially as regards handling, acceleration, and braking.
These races usually take place in wide areas with sufficient space for braking. However, even the best cars with poor tires won’t perform well on an autocross course. The tires can make a huge difference, especially with regard to grip, responsiveness, and traction.
This is why you should pick autocross tires that ideally match your needs. You should not buy racing tires if you only casually participate in autocross events, but, if you are a frequent racer then you must get yourself proper autocross tires to enjoy the experience at its fullest.
Best Autocross Tyre Info-Graphic
Proper Racing Tire?
If you want to master your driving skills and learn to drive like a pro then autocross is the perfect place to start.
However, autocross has some requirements, as you can’t just take your regular car there and expect to win a race or an event. You need to upgrade your vehicle accordingly in order to perform well.
As unique and significant as they may seem, autocross tires are not so difficult to find, but the biggest challenge is to find the right tire to offer optimum efficiency and longevity.
We have carefully put together a list of the Top 6 extreme performance summer tires in autocross industry. You can pick your favorite from the following list that meets all your needs and requirements.
9 Best Autocross Tires
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Rim Size | Section Width | Size | ||
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| Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 Radial Tire – 235/40R18 95Z XL |
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| Continental ContiSportContact 5 Radial Tire – 245/40R17 91W |
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| Falken Azenis RT-615K High Performance Tire – 195/60R14 86H |
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| Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 Ultra High Peformance Tire 225/40R18 92 W Extra Load |
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| MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 S Performance Radial Tire-245/40ZR18/XL 97Y |
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| YOKOHAMA 285/30R20 99Y XL ADVAN APEX V601 BW |
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| Falken AZENIS FK510 Performance Radial Tire – 245/35ZR20 95Y 95Y |
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| Hankook Ventus R-S3 Z222 High Performance Tire – 285/35R18 101Z |
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| Federal 595RS-RR All- Season Radial Tire-215/45R17 87W |
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1. Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 Radial Tire
Wet Performance
88%
Dry Performance
91%
Comfort Performance
87%
Treadwear Performance
83%
Winter/Snow Performance
85%
Rating:
5/5
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This is one of the extreme performance tires that guarantees all-year performance. The design of this tire is asymmetric and race-inspired.
It also features the Goodyear ActiveBraking technology to improve stopping performance on dry and wet roads, besides being designed to provide better handling and steering responses.
Construction
This tire incorporates Goodyear traction resins for dry grip, high-surface wet-grip silica, and high-molecular polymers for maximizing the rigidity of tread.
The Eagle F1 has three layers of polyamide cord inside it, along with two steel belts that preserve the tire shape and structure at high speeds, much like Goodyear’s other tires. The tire is asymmetrical and can, therefore, be rotated backward and not side by side.
Due to the unique polymers and lightweight buildings used in the rotational design that reduce released mass steering response and control are increased.
High-level silica and four circumference grooves, eliminate water from the belt and reduce the chance of hydroplaning and are used to enhance the moisture surface control. It is probably the best tire on the market for traction on the wet ground.
Performance
It is fine in all road conditions, including snow, dry, and wet weather. You will also have a smoother ride. Four circumferential grooves are also present, which wrap the tire to channel water away from the tire.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Goodyear
Model: Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2
Speed Rating: Z
Aspect Ratio: 40
Item Weight: 22.5 pounds
Section Width: 235 Millimeters
Product Dimensions: 25.4 x 25.4 x 9.3 inches
Rim Diameter: 18 Inches
Tread Depth: 10 Millimeters
FAQ’s
Is Asymmetric 2 better than its previous model?
It is very right to say that the new F1 asymmetric 2, is a major improvement compared with the predecessor. Dry traction is very impressive, and it is even more impressive to manage this wet tire. And when it comes to water grip, there’s no better high-performance autocross tire than this.
How does it perform on dry and wet roads?
It has a dry handling zone on one side that makes more rubber contact with the ground. This tire has a number of microgrooves for traction on wet grounds to allow you to grasp a lot of the edges of the road.
It is easy to curve and treat with high and low speeds. The tires stop very easily when the braking is applied in both wet and dry conditions. Hydroplaning and moisture resistance are very well so that the tire doesn’t feel as though it will slip at any point.
How is its stability and strength at higher speeds?
There are two steel belts within the tread, with a polyamide strip spirally-wrapped to protect it. The effect is greater strength, stability, and improved overall riding efficiency at higher speeds.
Pros
- Good overall traction.
- Excellent steering response and handling.
- Low rolling resistance.
- Braking abilities are excellent.
- Good ride quality.
Cons
- Short tread life.
- Noisy.
Conclusion
Goodyear’s lightweight, rally-derived construction reduces the unstuck mass to boost performance and enhance steering accuracy, handling, and stopping power with its crossed ply casing.
2. Continental ContiSportContact 5
Wet Performance
90%
Dry Performance
86%
Comfort Performance
92%
Treadwear Performance
83%
Winter/Snow Performance
89%
Rating:
5/5
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Construction
The internal construction of the tire has an engineered rolling strength cap and base range along with twin, spirally wrapped polyamide, which boosts ride consistency and adjusts the vertical flexibility and lateral rigidity of the contact field.
The special Black Chilli compound of Continental was designed into an asymmetric configuration utilizing a macroblock outboard shoulder to allow the tire’s structure to fit and react to each road surface.
Performance
This high-performance tire is another amazing tire that performs incredibly well for driving. There’s an incredible response to these best autocross street tires as they respond rapidly to steering inputs.
It is designed to have steering precision, cornering control, and quick stopping intervals in dry and rainy environments. Though, as in other extreme performance summer tires, it is not meant to be used in the winter season.
When driving a sports car, the performance of the tires becomes even more crucial. You are definitely going to require the perfect tires for your vehicle in order to enjoy your car at its fullest.
As you would increase the speed of your vehicle, you’d need more control, and that’s where these best track tires kick in as they give you perfect control over your automobile.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Continental
Model: ContiSportContact 5 – SSR
Speed Rating: Yes
Aspect Ratio: 35 Unknown modifier
Item Weight: 25 pounds
Section Width: 9.5 Inches
Product Dimensions: 25.8 x 25.8 x 9.5 inches
Rim Diameter: 19 Inches
Tread Depth: 9 32nds
FAQ’s
How is the tire’s rolling friction?
The ContiSportContact 5 will emit the stored energy at constant rates more quickly with the long-line polymers of the material. The rolling resistance is greatly reduced and the tire helps to stop more quickly. As it stays colder than regular tires, the lifespan is good and fuel usage reduces.
Are the tires run-flat tires?
The tire is available in both run-flat, (SSR) and non-run flat models. The run-flat variant will contain the SSR letters on its sidewall and description.
What about the wet traction?
The four circumferential rails help to extract water from the tires and to improve the wet grip, and the continual center rib and intermediate rib technology of Continental guarantees responsive, comfortable, and strong control and riding comfort.
How many miles are these tires rated for?
ContiSportContact 5 is an excellent autocross tire. It is actually not rated for a fixed mileage. Specific treadwear can vary depending on local road conditions, car maintenance, and driving habits.
Pros
- Good rolling resistance.
- Short Braking Distances.
- Extreme performance summer tire
- Low road noise.
- High straight aquaplaning resistance.
Cons
- Relatively bad dry performance.
- Short lifespan.
Conclusion
This Continental tire is a good quality tire that provides the assistance required on the highway. You should give this product a chance if you want to check the capacity of your vehicle.
3. Falken Azenis RT615K+
Wet Performance
84%
Dry Performance
87%
Comfort Performance
77%
Treadwear Performance
81%
Winter/Snow Performance
80%
Rating:
5/5
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One other great autocross tire is the Azenis RT615K+ for racers who do not want to invest a ton on tires and want the performance of a quality product.
In order to strengthen the grip and aquaplaning resistance, the inner circular grooves facilitate the evacuation of the water from the contact surface.
Construction
Sticky tires usually have a steep sidewall which helps maintain the side forces of the tires that rip through a corner. These best tires for autocross and street are compounds of soft rubber that allows the rolling on the asphalt more noise.
This is also expected to wear out more easily than other on-road tires with its strong adhesion to the road. It is also essentially a summer tire and, thus, is not ideal for use on snow or ice as it may crack at low temperatures.
Performance
It’s one of the best and most reliable autocross tires on the market,come in around $100 according to the size.
This auto cross tire’s tread is incredibly fine, with its sideways very steep. It offers precise control, outstanding responsiveness, and great control. The level of grip and traction are also great, especially in warmer weather.
This best auto cross tires for corvette has an enhanced tension casing for drivers who demands better handling and stability at high speeds, with a speed rating of W (270 km/h) and sizes range from 14 inches to 18 inches.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Falken
Model: Azenis Rt-615K
Speed Rating: H
Aspect Ratio: 60
Item Weight: 18.5 pounds
Section Width: 195 Millimeters
Product Dimensions: 23.2 x 23.2 x 7.7 inches
Rim Diameter: 14 Inches
Tread Depth: 7.94 Inches
FAQ’s
Can I use these tires in the winter season?
These best auto cross tires 2018 are specifically made for summer and not suggested for winter use. They are not built for snow, so you will be disappointed if you consider them using in freezing cold temperatures.
Does it offer good traction?
It provides great traction in all situations and offers a great grip and outstanding cornering response. Through the contact patch ratio, the firm center rib tends to minimize the spin of the wheel.
Do these tires make noise?
In terms of noise, these best auto cross street tires are comparable to an off-road tire but are a bit quieter than the off-road tires. You won’t notice the noise if you have a noisy vehicle, because it contributes to the greater road noise. Nonetheless, these tires are not the perfect option if you want an absolutely relaxed experience because they are a little bit noisy.
Pros
- Even wear and durability.
- Great cornering response.
- High-speed stability.
- Excellent dry grip and traction.
Cons
- Not very quiet.
- Uncomfortable.
Conclusion
All in all, this model is a hit in this price category, given its incredible stability on tracks and normal highways, and also manages the rough and rainy environments pretty well.
4. Firestone Firehawk Indy 500
According to our tire tests in Michelin pilot sport cup these are the only tires that were able to maintain their shape even multiple heat cycles with a professional autocross driver driving the car.
Wet Performance
83%
Dry Performance
87%
Comfort Performance
84%
Treadwear Performance
77%
Winter/Snow Performance
81%
Rating:
5/5
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This American tire company was founded in 1900 by Harvey Firestone. It is not only a prominent brand and a high-performance tire manufacturer. This is also known to use and improvise its goods amongst those big innovators of advanced technology.
The Firehawk Indy 500 has been enhanced with features such as a better life and improved traction of the wet surface. Race-based technology has been developed to provide optimum traction efficiency and cornering.
Construction
In addition to the new tread material and two other circumferential grooves in conjunction with the patented Pulse Groove System, it provides shorter stopping distances in the wet than its predecessor.
There are two high-tensile steel belts inside the tire that provide extra reinforcement and longevity with a polyester casing and a spirally-wrapped nylon reinforcement. Firehawk Indy 500 is intended for sports cars, and luxury sedans, according to Firestone.
Performance
Like all the summer tires, these tires are not meant to be driven across ice or snow at very low temperatures.
It allows the tread to give improved traction and off-road and rough terrains with this wider feature of the shoulders. The increased rigidity of the tire also gives this model absolute trust in cornering.
These tires are fairly new, silica-reinforced, and high-performance Long Link Carbon Treads with rubber, with mold and shape of a fiercely looking tread pattern with asymmetry.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Firestone
Model: Firehawk Indy 500
Speed Rating: W
Aspect Ratio: 40
Item Weight: 23.1 pounds
Section Width: 225 Millimeters
Product Dimensions: 25.1 x 9.06 x 25.1 inches
Rim Diameter: 18 Inches
Tread Depth: 10 32nds
FAQ’s
Overall, is it a good street driving tire?
Not just by its high-performance specifications, this tire promises to give you the greatest riding experience. It will hold you amazed as you have the opportunity to discover its capabilities. It has much more to offer as an ultimate sport performance tire that is primarily built with a race-inspired appeal.
Do Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 tires give a comfortable experience?
This tire has many features, but when you equate it to other high-performance tires, it is definitely not the most comfortable (As per Tire rack). That said, it is better than most high-performance tires, particularly in the department of riding quality.
Does it come up with any warranty?
Yes, it comes with a limited time guarantee. For the first 1/32 inch of wear, the uniformity of a tire is assured. The workmanship and materials are also guaranteed for a term of five years and free substitution for the first three years is also possible. There is a proportionate amount given for the remainder of the time, i.e. to the final 2/32 tread depth.
What about the cornering grip?
By means of the steeper sidewall and independent rolling blocks the cornering grip is further improved in this tire. The tire may have the same cornering grip as the Michelin Pilot Super Sport, according to the vast majority of the drivers.
Pros
- Reasonable price.
- Strong braking in dry and wet conditions.
- Excellent cornering grip and stability.
- 60,000-mile warranty.
- Quick reaction to steering input.
- High-speed capacity.
- Affordable.
Cons
- Can’t be used in winter.
- Competitors provide better overall performance.
Conclusion
You should get this tire if you are on a budget and looking for a tire that will boost the performance of your car. It is compatible with dry and wet handling and gives excellent quality at an affordable price.
5. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Wet Performance
83%
Dry Performance
92%
Comfort Performance
90%
Treadwear Performance
87%
Winter/Snow Performance
81%
Rating:
5/5
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It uses a modern hybrid formulation on the outer part for a good dry grip and to have a strong wet grip, due to the compound on the inner part made with silica and usable elastomers.
It is a widely accepted tire for amateur and racing drivers. The Michelin summer tire is loved by driving fans worldwide despite its higher price demand.
Construction
The Pilot’s asymmetric pattern is made up of compounds derived from Le Mans. The Variable Contact Patch 3.0 computer-modeled enables pressure distribution to be optimized overall contact patches, reduced hot spots, and improved shaft life during aggressive use.
It also features a new ‘Premium Touch’ technology introduced two years ago that makes the markers more noticeable, putting a velvety finish on the sidewall.
Performance
This autocross tire is extremely controllable at its limit thanks to its excellent responsiveness and sticky rubber. The level of grip and traction are also incredible and you won’t have to worry about it catching fire or exploding.
This is one of the best autocross tires for frs and it also excels in dry braking. During the final stamp, the 340i becomes more stable and stops constantly short of the distance that competitor tires manage to achieve.
Specifications
Model: MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 S
Speed Rating: Yes
Aspect Ratio: 40
Item Weight: 25.4 pounds
Section Width: 245 Millimeters
Product Dimensions: 25.7 x 9.65 x 25.7 inches
Rim Diameter: 18 Inches
Tread Depth: 9.5 32nds
FAQ’s
Is this tire visually appealing?
It is visually a very appealing tire. Michelin’s Limited Edition Premium Contact sidewall treatment is available in different sizes of the Pilot Sport 4S. The checkered sidewall is created with advanced laser technology to enhance the visual appearance of the vehicle.
Does it come up with any warranty?
This is one of the few autocross tires with a warranty of 30,000 miles treadwear.
Are the tires noisy?
These tires make bearable, not uncomfortable noise. The on-street characteristics of these tires are supplied with exceptional comfort. At higher speeds, it does not make much noise and makes a very quiet and excellent ride.
Can I use them as winter tires?
These tires are mainly summer tires and hence shouldn’t be used in snowy and icy conditions.
Pros
- Exceptional traction.
- Great high-speed stability.
- 30,000-mile treadwear warranty.
- Amazing handling ability.
Cons
- Pricey.
- Bad wet cycle grip.
Conclusion
Pilot Sport 4S fits comfortably for great quality autocross tires. If you are looking for a tire that complements your sports car or sedan and improves its functional properties, then these best autocross and street tires.
6. Yokohama Advan Apex V601
Wet Performance
84%
Dry Performance
91%
Comfort Performance
90%
Treadwear Performance
81%
Winter/Snow Performance
83%
Rating:
4.4/5
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Yokohama Advan Apex is a high-performance Y tire specially developed for the summer season, designed for sporty vehicles, sedans, and luxury cars.
Construction
Its tread architecture permits the removal of the water but gives preference to wider portions of tread blocks to optimize the patch adhesion.
Optimized groove angles have been developed to reduce noise for quieter rides and the rounded rib profile also encourages contact with the road in order to reduce uneven wear of the rib.
Performance
This is one of the best street autocross tires for smooth concrete and is offered in forty-four separate sizes with the range of 17″ to 20″ wheels.
The wide, outboard rib has a very low vacuum for optimum lateral control, and the solid central ribs provide continuous contact with the high-speed road for precise movement and stabilization.
The narrow outside groove allows heat dissipation from the violent cornering and efficiently spreads the three circumferential grooves from the contact patch to avoid hydroplaning.
It is built for high-performance car drivers, from race vehicles to sporty automobiles. You should opt for these tires if you want to enjoy traveling on a damp and dry road surface when keeping strong control.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Yokohama
Model: ADVAN APEX V601
Speed Rating: Yes
Aspect Ratio: 45 Unknown modifier
Item Weight: 26.8 pounds
Section Width: 285 Millimeters
Product Dimensions: 285 x 26.8 x 26.8 inches
Rim Diameter: 20 Inches
Tread Depth: 9 32nds
FAQ’s
Do these tires come up with any warranty?
Yes, these best street autocross tires come up with 5 years or 25,000 miles warranty. The initial 2/32 inch of wear of uniformity guarantee. Yokohama offers a 30-days free check to the user so that you can evaluate it, so you can get it back if it doesn’t suit your driving style.
Can this tire be used in winters?
This tire should never ever be used in winters as it may even crack if exposed to freezing temperatures.
How is the Dry Tarmac and Street Performance?
This tire works strongest on dry pavement, with barely much behind the steering. The broad rib tread on the side of this tire allows a fast steering response and helps to mitigate heat during violent spins. It is ideal for mountain or highland paving, where many winding turns are possible.
Pros
- Heavy grip on dry roads and tracks.
- Supper handling when driving.
- Great response time and braking distance.
- High performance.
Cons
- It does not perform well on wet roads.
- Low tread life warranty.
- These tires are not made to be used in winters.
Conclusion
You should check out this tire with the 30-day evaluation if it suits your driving style. This Tire would be perfect for you if you are looking for a super-high-performance tire that offers summer and sporty look.
Final words
We have included high-quality tires from reliable suppliers in the list above so that the autocross lovers can select the perfect tires for their vehicles. Make sure to purchase tires from trustworthy companies if you want to enjoy driving and have a good experience.
You can choose your favorite tires from our list of the 9 Best Autocross Tires based on their price, appearance, traction, responsiveness, efficiency, performance, and comfort.