For 2025 Tire Rack have tested a bunch of extreme performance summer tyres, eg 200 treadwear track tyres on their new M2 in 275/35 R18.
Tire Rack split this test into multiple parts, doing some testing at their smaller test facility and also going to a big track to do a fastest lap and average lap time test.
As always, use the link below to see the full data from the test, this is just me cherry picking some of the data points and applying my own score weighting to see how that looks as an overall test. Note, the 'Dry Handling' is the fastest single lap, and the 'Dry Handling - Long Run' is their average of 6 laps, which takes into account heat degradation.
The Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS remains the category champion by balancing performance with relative civility. Road noise was noticeable but steering was a highlight with firm, natural weighting and excellent responsiveness. In wet conditions it showed clear superiority with authoritative front-end grip and the best wet braking, with progressive breakaway behavior that rewarded clean driving. Dry performance felt comfortably capable with generous traction and composed slalom work, feeling the best to drive overall. On the long road course it delivered a well-rounded, cohesive experience with seamless integration of steering, grip, and balance. It rewarded smooth inputs with confident cornering and strong braking that plateaued predictably after initial falloff. More demanding at the absolute limit but the fastest overall with competent, composed performance. Wear analysis showed the most compound loss at 1mm across the tread face with deeper 2mm loss on rib leading edges.
The Vitour Tempesta P1 P-01R delivered a firm but cushioned road ride with well-managed noise and progressive steering buildup. Wet track performance was frustrating with razor-sharp but unhelpful steering, a rear prone to stepping out, difficult power delivery, and the longest braking distances with slow recovery. Once dry, it transformed into the fastest tested with strong mid-corner grip, very quick steering, the best dry braking, and excellent corner exit power delivery that rewarded smooth inputs. On the long road course this debut tyre was capable but selective—braking was notably strong and lateral traction decent, but combining inputs felt unnatural with front-end push under acceleration if steering wasn't finished. Consistent after the first lap with second-fastest average times despite not feeling the best to drive. Wear showed 2-2.5mm loss on outboard shoulder with noticeable 1mm loss on intermediate ribs.
The BFGoodrich g-Force Rival S 1.5 shared its sibling's harsh character with hollow impacts and stiffness creating jumpiness, though steering offered slightly more progressive ramp-up. Wet track performance revealed notably less traction than the Rival +, with slow recovery and a narrow margin for error despite quick steering. On dry surfaces the siblings felt similar, with the S 1.5 marginally more planted but not dramatically different on shorter tracks. The long road course showcased its "speed first" nature with strong front-end authority, confident steering, and a stable grip envelope that encouraged aggressive inputs. The tyre remained composed and balanced with predictable throttle response, minimal falloff, and excellent communication. Wear was more noticeable than its sibling, particularly on central ribs and outboard shoulder. Competitively close to the fastest and one of the most pleasant to track.
The Nankang Sportnex CR-S impressed with surprisingly pleasant road damping and moderate noise, plus nice steering with accuracy and immediate reaction. Wet track performance was its weakness with the slowest laps, longest braking, and uncontrolled sliding that demanded careful, separated inputs. Dry conditions brought substantial transformation with competitive pace, strong braking, excellent mid-corner grip, and quick, authoritative steering, though communication remained limited. On the long road course it was uncommunicative but very fast with plenty of traction everywhere—braking, power, mid-corner—but lacking the feel to combine these elements confidently. Noticeable performance drop across laps but still very capable. Wear analysis showed excellent durability with only 0.5mm loss on ribs and 1mm on outboard shoulder, among the best in the test.
The Yokohama ADVAN A052 maintained its benchmark reputation with a firm but composed road ride and moderate noise. Steering felt light and quick but lacked some immediacy compared to competitors. Wet testing showed good balance and strong traction but high susceptibility to hydroplaning with abrupt breakaway requiring careful management, though competitive pace was possible within limits. Dry performance delivered quick, consistent laps with strong braking and respectable grip, featuring confident steering and brute-force capability that made it easy and predictable to drive with manageable recovery. On the long road course it gave strong, confident performance with well-matched grip inspiring trust. The front end was accurate but could use more precision, yet it remained quick, predictable, and easy to drive hard with only modest, gradual drop-off. Wear was minimal with minor loss on intermediate ribs and outboard shoulder edges.
The Falken Azenis RT660+ update brings improvements including better heat management and larger contact patch, delivering a firm but composed ride. Road noise included hollow ringing and "sizzle" sounds with quick steering that had some play on center. Wet conditions proved fun with lively steering response and a planted front end making the sliding rear entertaining, though braking distances were longer. Dry performance felt playful yet composed with quick, precise steering and natural balance, making excellent use of available grip despite wanting more traction overall. On the long road course, the refresh improved over its predecessor with balanced, easy handling and pointy steering that blended well without bad habits. It remained consistent after the first lap but wasn't quite up to overall traction levels of competitors, offering a kinder, gentler experience. Wear showed 1.5mm loss on center rib leading edge and outboard shoulder.
The BFGoodrich g-Force Rival + is an endurance-focused tyre with harsh road manners, transmitting impacts transparently with omnipresent noise and very quick, almost overly eager steering. In wet conditions it felt edgy at the limit with a narrow plateau, though it recovered quickly and delivered surprisingly strong wet braking. Dry track performance was more forgiving but corner-exit traction could abruptly disappear into understeer. The slowest on average in the long road course test, it nonetheless maintained excellent consistency and reliability. Wear analysis showed almost no compound loss after several runs, reinforcing its endurance nature. It needed more front axle traction through extended cornering but brought pleasant, compliant characteristics with strong braking and appropriately weighty steering.
