The Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is a premium max-performance summer tyre that earns praise from many drivers for its quiet, comfortable manners and reassuring wet-road confidence, especially in heavy rain. Real-world feedback consistently highlights strong aquaplaning resistance and good everyday grip, with many reporting better-than-expected wear and solid value for money. However, both users and independent tests indicate it isn't the sharpest or most modern performer overall, with particular concerns around steering precision for some and a clear test-proven weakness in wet braking.
In day-to-day use the SportMaxx RT 2 feels refined: low noise levels, a compliant ride for the category, and stable motorway behaviour are common themes. Its ability to clear standing water is a standout strength in professional testing (often class-leading in straight and especially curved aquaplaning), matching the frequent user reports of high confidence in heavy rain.
Where the picture becomes less positive is in the core 'stopping power' metrics. Across a large spread of recent comparative tests, wet braking is repeatedly a weak point and can drag the tyre down the rankings versus newer UHP rivals; dry braking also tends to sit mid-pack to lower. A minority of drivers also report soft or inconsistent sidewalls, describing vague turn-in or a “wobbly” feel when pushed, and some note wet grip confidence can drop as the tyre wears (with noise sometimes increasing on rougher surfaces). Overall, it remains an appealing choice if you prioritise refinement and aquaplaning security, but it's less convincing if you want the most precise steering and the shortest wet stopping distances available today.
The quick answer
Owners say76%from 96 owner reviews64% would buy againRead the reviews
Strengths & weaknessesWet, DryComfortRelative to its rivals across every test we hold
Built from every independent test result and vetted owner review we hold for this tyre - the evidence is all further down the page. Data updated November 2026.
Where to buyPrices for your size at our partner shops.Affiliate links
The Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2 finishes thirteenth. Its strongest area is water dispersal and straight aquaplaning resistance, where it finishes mid-field. Dry braking is competitive and rolling comfort is rated positively. However, it loses ground in the cost tests, with higher tread wear and above-average price-per-km, which drags down the overall result.
Strong: Subj. Comfort ·Weak: Dry Braking ·Winner: Hankook Ventus Evo
Every independent test of the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2, newest first
In 245/45 R19, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is projected to cost €25.60 per 1,000 km to buy and run - about €1,024 over 40,000 km - based on the price, wear and rolling resistance measured in the 2026 Autobild Summer Tyre Test.
Tyre purchase + fittingExtra fuel vs the most efficient tyrecost per 1,000 km
Assumes a typical car using 8 l/100km (with rolling resistance causing 20% of fuel use), fuel at €1.65 per litre and €70 fitting per set of four. Purchase prices are from the time of the 2026 test; financing costs are excluded.
Across the 31 wet-braking tests it has featured in, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 stops 4.9% longer than premium rivals, 0.3% longer than mid-range rivals and 7.1% shorter than budget rivals. It has a Tyre Reviews wet score of 83/100, and owners rate it 7.8/10 in the wet from 96 reviews.
How good is the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 in the dry?
Across the 30 dry-braking tests it has featured in, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 stops 1.8% longer than premium rivals, 1.3% shorter than mid-range rivals and 4.2% shorter than budget rivals. It has a Tyre Reviews dry score of 76/100, and owners rate it 8.3/10 in the dry from 96 reviews.
How fuel efficient is the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2?
Across the 15 tests measuring rolling resistance, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2's rolling resistance is 1.2% higher than premium rivals, 3.1% lower than mid-range rivals and 2.9% higher than budget rivals.
How many miles does the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 last?
Based on test and owner data, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is expected to last around 23,878 miles (38,428 km).
What treadwear rating and mileage warranty does the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 have?
In the US, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 carries UTQG treadwear grades of 240 to 300, depending on size, with traction AA and temperature A. UTQG treadwear is relative: a tyre graded 400 lasted four times as long as the reference tyre, graded 100, on the government test course. New tread depth is 9-10/32" (7.1-7.9 mm), depending on size.
More questions about the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2(11)
What do owners say about the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2?
Across 96 owner ratings the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 averages 76%. Owners rate Dry Grip highest at 8.3 out of 10 and Wear lowest at 7.5. 26 of those reviews come from owners past 10,000 miles. 70% of owners score it 70% or better.
How much does the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 cost to run?
In 245/45 R19, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is projected to cost €25.60 per 1,000 km to buy and run - about €1,024 over 40,000 km - based on the price, wear and rolling resistance measured in the 2026 Autobild Summer Tyre Test. The cheapest to run in that test is the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, at €19.89.
What is the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2's EU tyre label rating?
Across its range, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 most commonly carries EU label ratings of C for fuel efficiency, A for wet grip and 72 dB for noise.
How comfortable and quiet are the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2?
Owners rate the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 7.9 out of 10 for comfort and noise across 83 reviews.
How well do the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 wear, according to owners?
Owners rate the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 7.5 out of 10 for wear across 83 reviews. 26 of those reviews come from owners past 10,000 miles, and the typical review covers 4,500 miles.
Would owners buy the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 again?
64% of owners say they would buy the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 again, based on the 89 owner reviews that answered the question. 26% of them gave it the highest possible answer.
What do owners say about the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2's dry grip?
Of the 82 owner reviews analysed for the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2, 47 mention dry grip: 41 praise it (strong dry grip) and 6 criticise it (limited dry grip). One owner wrote: "the Dunlops gripped the road so well". Read those reviews
What do owners say about the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2's wet grip?
Of the 82 owner reviews analysed for the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2, 41 mention wet grip: 30 praise it (confident wet grip) and 11 criticise it (weak wet grip). One owner wrote: "confidence inspiring in the wet". Read those reviews
What do owners say about the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2's road noise?
Of the 82 owner reviews analysed for the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2, 28 mention road noise: 18 praise it (quiet) and 10 criticise it (noisy). Read those reviews
What does the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 replace?
The Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is the successor to the Dunlop SportMaxx RT in Dunlop's range.
What sizes does the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 come in?
The Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is available in 107 sizes, ranging from 205-285/30-60 R17-21.
Questions and Answers for the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2
Are the Dunlop RT2 run flat? Size is 255/45 R18 103 XL
October 10, 2022
I believe the RT2 is available in some runflat sizes, your tyre retailer will be able to advise you if your size is available in a runflat option.
Show all questions(10)
I have a mercedes clk 350 convertable with 225 40 18 on the front and 255 35 18 on the rear. Show moreI have a mercedes clk 350 convertable with 225 40 18 on the front and 255 35 18 on the rear. I am looking for maximum comfort and low noise as I use it as a tourer rather than a sports car. I have Pirelli P zero which are starting to crack between the treads so its time for a replacement. I was thinking of Dunlops RT2 going off peoples reviews. What are your thoughts. would you recomend another tyre over the dunlops. Show less
May 22, 2020
The Falken FK510 has higher levels of comfort than the RT2
Hi, I need to fit my old 2000 corvette cab with staggered size 245/45YR17 and 275/40YR18. The Dunlop RT2 and the Hankook S1, V12 are the one that I could find in… Show moreHi,
I need to fit my old 2000 corvette cab with staggered size 245/45YR17 and 275/40YR18. The Dunlop RT2 and the Hankook S1, V12 are the one that I could find in both size, given that I am only looking at major brands. I am focusing on touring if any. The Dunlop attracts me due to lower noise and good braking in the wet, which in sweden is a interesting point. The Hankook is similar in test result, except for the noise and recommended.
What is your take on this? Should I mix brand and model front and rear? Should I stay with same model? Dunlop or Hankook?
Thank you very much. Show less
April 12, 2019
I would avoid mixing front and rear where possible. I'd probably go for the Dunlops over the Hankooks if it's an earlier version of the S1. In turn, the S1 Evo 3 would probably be the smarter purchase as it's a newer tyre than the RT2.
Are these going to be available in 16" or shall I go with the maxx RT? I'm currently using Barum Bravuris 3HM, is the maxx rt's overall performance better than the… Show moreAre these going to be available in 16" or shall I go with the maxx RT? I'm currently using Barum Bravuris 3HM, is the maxx rt's overall performance better than the Barums? Is it worth to replace the Barums with maxx rt or rt 2 if it's going to be available in 16"? Show less
July 25, 2018
It is very unlikely Dunlop would develop this in a 16 inch as their focus is very much on 17 inch plus.
The only chance of it being developed in 16 inch is if Dunlop had an OE fitment request, which is again very unlikely.
Is there any significant difference between SportMaxx RT2 & Goodyear Asym. 3 in terms of feedback and comfort considering the fact Dunlop's parent company is… Show moreIs there any significant difference between SportMaxx RT2 & Goodyear Asym. 3 in terms of feedback and comfort considering the fact Dunlop's parent company is Goodyear? Show less
May 27, 2018
Not a huge amount! In theory the RT2 is slightly more sport focused than the Asymmetric 3, but I've not had chance to do the test back to back so can't confirm this. Both are excellent tyres.
Do these tyres have good alloy wheel protection ?
April 17, 2018
In certain sizes the SportMaxx RT2 has a raised flange to protect the wheel, you would need to check with your tyre dealer to see if your size does.
Hi, I have a 2016 Subaru WRX STI with the recommended 245/40 R18 Dunlop SportMaxx RT2 tyres. Show moreHi, I have a 2016 Subaru WRX STI with the recommended 245/40 R18 Dunlop SportMaxx RT2 tyres. Unfortunately, I find the ride excessively hard (I know this is a characteristic of the car). Is there a tyre of the same size that would help the ride comfort and smooth things out, without too greatly compromising the vehicle? Softer sidewalls? I see above you recommend Continental Premium Contact 6 as an excellent blend of comfort & performance, and I believe the Goodyear F1 AsymmetricaI 3 is also very good. I only drive at normal road speeds, and own the vehicle for it's AWD ability to operate in all conditions (dry, rain, mud, frost, sunny etc.) - I am not interested in maximum attack style track days!. Any help or suggestions greatly appreciated. Show less
December 19, 2017
For all its sporty credentials, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is actually a comfortable UUHP tyre. The Continental Premiumcontact 6 would be a good option, also the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance will be more comfortable than the Asymmetric 3 and RT 2.
The Dunlop Sport Max RT 91W factory fitted front tyres on my Octavia estate(64 plate) are coming up to their limit after 25500 miles.( the back ones have lots of… Show moreThe Dunlop Sport Max RT 91W factory fitted front tyres on my Octavia estate(64 plate) are coming up to their limit after 25500 miles.( the back ones have lots of tread left) I am not a performance driver, preferring comfort and good mpg( 58 mpg over this mileage). What do I go for to replace them? Show less
I'm considering buying a set of these tyres but the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance tyres look good too. Show moreI'm considering buying a set of these tyres but the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance tyres look good too.
So my main question is, If both sets of these tyres were the same price (Dunlop Vs Goodyear), which set would you go for?
I currently drive a FWD Hyundai Coupe 1.6 ( A car which I find very heavy ) on Irish roads and need to upgrade my tyres immediately.
At present, the tyres on my car are Landsail items, and are utter rubbish. Between horrible handling, a hard ride and high noise levels, I have to contend with the fact that 4 separate tyre dealers in my area couldn't balance my wheels correctly, so I have to swap them asap for a quality set-up. Show less
November 2, 2016
That depends on your requirements from the tyre. The Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2 is intended as a performance tyre, whereas the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance is a touring tyre. As such, the Dunlop will have a more sporty feel, and the Goodyear will offer more comfort. Both are excellent tyres and will offer significant improvements over your current landsail tyres.
Across reviews, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 is most often described as a quiet, comfortable UHP tyre with strong all-round grip-especially in the wet-and good aquaplaning resistance, giving many drivers high confidence in everyday and motorway use. Wear is frequently reported as good to very good versus several competing premium tyres, and many consider it strong value for money. A notable minority, however, report overly soft or inconsistent sidewalls leading to vague/“wobbly” steering and reduced precision when cornering hard, and some users say grip (particularly in wet conditions) can fall off as the tyre wears.
What owners mention most counted across 82 reviews
Tap one to read only the reviews that mention it.
Owner ratings averaged from 96 ratings
Owner score76%
Dry Grip83%
Comfort79%
Wet Grip78%
Road Feedback77%
Handling76%
Wear75%
Featured reviews
Most helpful 70%
“A mixed bag these ones. I'll start with the positives: Survived two mixed weather track days. Although conditions meant pushing hard was never an option, most road tyres show some shoulder wear in track conditions, but...”
“I bought the Dunlop tyres after reading all the reviews and the different tyre tests. Anything other than warm dry roads and the grip is very disappointing. Wheel spinning in first and second gear on typical British...”
“Fitted to a 2018 skoda octavia 2.0 saloon 150bhp. Car is used 5 days a week average 250m per day heavily laden boot just driver they handle well little amount if aquaplaning good wet grip and braking these are original...”
garbage. no grip at dry, no grip at wet. probably good for a person who doesnt do "spirited" driving, or has less than 200hp. also even if has under 200hp, they do not stick to the ground very well at tighter turns. not recommending them.
Which tyres do you drive?
Researching the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2? Rate the tyres you actually drive - and help the next buyer choose.
A mixed bag these ones. I'll start with the positives:
Survived two mixed weather track days. Although conditions meant pushing hard was never an option, most road tyres show some shoulder wear in track conditions, but these held up well. In Cold / Greasy conditions, they clearly performed better than the same car on semi-slicks and the handling was predictable, consistent and controllable. Oversteer was progressive and correctable.
Next, in very very very heavy rain conditions on the motorway (and I mean, can't even see the car in front kinda wet), they performed very well. Very little if any aquaplaning, resistance to it was good. Felt calm and steady over standing water and in damp conditions it felt like the tyre was keyed into the road.
Lastly, country road driving in damp / changeable conditoins, also excellent, very reliable grip, even when pressing on.
So what about the downsides... well, theres a few:
1) very odd steering characteristics off centre and on / off throttle. The car changes direction slightly on and off throttle, a behaviour I've only seen when tyres were different brands, or one was hugely over / under inflated. It suggests that all four tyres may not be perfectly the same dimensionally. It lends an oddly floaty feeling just off centre when driving on roads.
2) very very very firm. For a road tyre, the carcass stiffness is significant. These are actually about as stiff as a set of Nankang AR1 track tyres, and significantly harder than the likes of a classic P zero. For a road tyre this makes it quite uncomfortable. It certainly feels "sporty" but over all but perfect roads, its quite uncomfortable.
3) I have no data yet on how these will perform under hard driving in dry conditions, so will need to report back once I've had a chance to do so.
Without a doubt, after so many years of fitting all kinds of brands, this is the worst purchase ever made. Two of the four tyres are deformed, since they were new. The brand does not respond and neither does the workshop. Both produce parasitic movements. When driving, the sensations at the wheel are of turning the steering wheel, the tyre twisting, leaning and starting to turn. In a storm, any boat at sea has less movement than these tyres. It is awful. Of course, they grip well both in dry and wet conditions, but what it conveys is that you are driving a van tyre. I would not buy it again, nor would I accept it as a gift. In itself, nothing from the Goodyear company will be fitted in my cars/motorbikes in the future.
I've had several sets of these on my car now as they have proven to be reliable and confidence inspiring in the wet. They've survived pot holes, debris, and the odd curb. I've never found myself wishing for more grip in the dry. The response is perhaps slightly muted compared to more expensive tyres, but personally don't have an issue as my driving is 90% motorway/major A roads.
In the wet the car feels stable in the rain at motorway speeds up until about 3mm tread depth, at which point the front started to feel nervous. Braking has been fine in the wet but pulling away briskly in anything other than a straight line will set off the traction control. Hard to say if this would be reduced with a more expensive tyre.
Front tyres have lasted about 11k miles before reaching the wear line after. Rears are over 20k and still have a while to go.
83%
Member
Skoda
225/45 R17
40,000 miles
A Combination of Roads
Easy Going
Just replaced 2 fronts at 40k miles with 2mm remaining. A very good tyre that has served the car well in all weather conditions including torrential rain and at all UK legal speeds. I have not experienced any loss of grip when pushed hard and only a slight degree of vagueness in spirited cornering. A quiet riding tyre at speed but which does not soak up bumps at low speed. Was tempted replace with the same but instead opted for Continental Premium Contact 7 due to good reviews.
Price-performance is OK as the tire is mostly cheap. Grip is good, but steering behavior and load changes are spongy because the sidewall is too soft for a UHP tire, especially for heavier vehicles. As the tires become more worn, they become louder and begin to “sing,” which becomes annoying, especially at higher speeds on the highway.
I recently bought a first gen TT that already had these tires installed (note they were 2 years old so my experience isn't as valid). The car has sport maxx RT on the front and sport maxx RT2 on the rear, it's not a bad tire for its money but it's not the kind of tire I would fit in such car. The back of the car starts shaking at a "slowly-developed 90° turn" at around 130km/h, the front of the car doesn't really mind, the setup is an oversteer setup so the front tires aren't bad as long as you're are hitting the gas. Note that it is a fwd and not the quattro version which shares the weight better. So in general they aren't a bad tire for their money, it must have been a lot better when it was first bought but I wouldn't fit these tires again (front-RT). They are solid tires, but I can feel it is holding back the true potential of the car. Would definitely not buy again but I can't say I'm disappointed either.
I have the tires for 2 summer seasons, the car cannot put the power on the road, the ESP lights up every time I accelerate to a power greater than 30%.
In curves, when accelerating, the rear quickly loses grip. they are weak on braking, but the feedback is good.
On a wet road they are very weak both on acceleration/braking/curves.
On the front pair, long cracks appeared between the central profiles.
I just replaced the winter ones (Pirelli Sotto Zero) because of the warm weather, but with Pirelli at 20 degrees Celsius outside I had no grip problems.
All in all, I do not recommend, at least not on this car.
Replaced my rear michelin pilot tyres for these dunlop maxx rt2. They have alot softer sidewalls compared to the michelin. Car felt "wobbly" in the rear when cornering and doing quick overtakes at higher speeds. Otherwise a good tire but i would not buy again.
Solid tyre. 12k miles done. Back 5.6, front 5.9
Mercedes 350 265/45/18 rear 245/50/18 front.
Can't fault them. Will go for another set. Traction perfect, drives like a train. No skids, no aquaplaning so far. Wear ok/even. Average driving style. Got me out of trouble once... Hard breaking ABS on... Avoided dropped container.
