ADAC 2018 test of 205/55 R16 size summer tyres

Wondering what tyre model to choose for the new season? Manufacturers are already advertising new products with unique properties and your friends are recommending their favourite models but you still don’t know what to choose? Use the advice provided by ADAC, a German automobile club, which this year tested one of the most popular sizes of summer tyres: 205/55 R16.

ADAC tests may be helpful when choosing summer tyres.
 

205/55 R16

Tyres of this size are fitted on cars of well-known brands, including Škoda Octavia, Škoda Superb, Ford Mondeo, Škoda Yeti, Ford Focus, Hyundai i30, Ford C-Max, Citroën C4, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Sharan and many others.

What do the digits of this popular size mean and where can find them?

The string of characters is located on the tyre sidewall and means that the tyre has a width of 205 mm and a height of approximately 112.75 mm (55% of 205 mm). The second value is the ratio (in %) of tyre sidewall height to its width. The next symbol refers to the tyre structure. In this case, R means radial, i.e., composed of layers arranged radially (relative to the tyre front axis). The last digit (16) defines the tyre rim diameter expressed in inches. While the first two values allow for a small margin of tolerance, the last value has to be extremely precise to perfectly fit the tyre to the wheel.

To provide a perfect fit, it is possible to adapt the size a little, but within a specified range. To maintain controllability and safety, the difference should be within the range from +1.5% to -2%. To select an adequate replacement tyre for your vehicle, then use our calculator.

Without the basic knowledge (seen above) it is impossible to select proper, new tyres. Check this year's test, and its results.

ADAC tests 

ADAC tests are considered to be among the most prestigious, although sometimes their results arouse heated debates and controversies. Their unquestionable advantage is the fact that they are carried out every season and often check new products, known only from advertising, or not known to the wider public. They provide valuable information for users, verifying the efforts of marketing specialists and confirming the actual performance of tyres.

This year, the expert analysed 16 models of 205/55 R16 91 V summer tyres. They were evaluated for performance in dry and wet conditions, noise emitted, driving comfort, fuel efficiency and wear resistance.

General classification in the test

The best models in each category 

The best 205/55 R16 91V size summer tyres according to ADAC.

1. Michelin Primacy 3

The best ratings in this year's tests were received by Michelin Primacy 3, which was awarded as "good", obtaining an average of 2.1 points. This model was also the leader in 2015 and three years later it has returned in a big way.

Michelin Primacy 3

Michelin Primacy 3 received the best marks for: 

• Wear resistance (1.0) — in this category, the model is the undisputed leader. With its patented rubber compound and reinforced structure, the tyre is incredibly durable and reliable.

• Performance on dry roads (1.7) — optimally reduced braking distance, reliable cornering and improved manoeuvrability with an innovative, asymmetrical tread pattern.

• Low noise and driving comfort (3.1) — optimised structure and composition of the rubber compound (providing the tyre with adequate flexibility) minimise noise and vibration.

Michelin Man (Bibendum) is the most recognisable symbol in the tyre industry. This character was introduced in 1898, four years after the founders noticed that a stack of tyres resembles a human body. Why is he white? Because at that time tyres were of an ivory colour.

Michelin Primacy 3

2. Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo

Second place was awarded to Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo, which debuted in ADAC tests with a "good" grade and average of 2.3 points. This tyre is a part of tourist series introduced by the Japanese for long journeys.

Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo

Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo is especially recommended due to: 

• Performance on wet roads (2.0) — numerous cuts and deep central grooves efficiently remove water from under the tyre front and minimise the risk of skidding in the rain.

• Performance on dry roads (1.9) – optimised load-distribution points and the outer part of the tyre ensure a very good grip on dry roads, smooth cornering and shorter braking distance.

The company's name, Bridgestone, comes from the name of its founder Shojiro Ishibashi, which may be translated as Stone Bridge.

Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo

3. Continental ContiPremiumContact 5

Third place in these ratings was taken by Continental ContiPremiumContact 5, which has been present in the top three (in different sizes) of ADAC tests since 2012. This year, the model received exactly the same average rating as the winner of the second place: Bridgestone Turanza T001 Evo (2.3). It is undoubtedly a proven model which is worth a closer look.

Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 is worth your attention:

• Fuel efficiency (1.7) — optimised tread design combined with a lightweight and flexible rubber compound reduce rolling resistance, making your drive more economical.

• Balanced performance both on dry (2.2) and wet roads (2.2) — the asymmetric tread is divided into two parts. The outer part is responsible for the grip on dry roads, transfer of driver steering movements to the tyre and for rapid braking. The task of the inner part is effective removal of water from the face of the tyre and to prevent aquaplaning and skidding. Central grooves, solid blocks and numerous sipes enhance traction and manoeuvrability, regardless of weather conditions.

Continental were pioneers in professional tests for winter tyres. In 1953 the company organised a test for winter tyres in extreme conditions. Cars with Continental tyres for the first time in history conquered the alpine St. Gotthard Pass, maintaining their full properties even at 2112 meters above sea level.

Continental ContiPremiumContact 5

How are the tyres tested? 

The whole process of ADAC tests is quite complicated, but such strict standards provide meaningful results. Each model is tested several times to check various properties, and each category has an assigned importance. In the summer, the most important parameters are:

• performance on wet roads (40%)

• performance on dry roads (20%)

• durability (20%)

• generated noise/driving comfort (10%)

• fuel efficiency (10%)

What is ADAC?

ADAC is a German association of drivers and motor sport specialists with 18 regional offices in all federal states. It is the second largest automobile club in the world, with over 17 million members. The statutory activities of the association include monitoring and promoting road transport, motor sports and tourism, while protecting motorised road users and developing traffic solutions. The club has its own road assistance vehicles and performs various tests, including tyres and car seats for children.

An ADAC tow truck

What else should be considered before purchasing tyres?

This year's ADAC rating is an excellent summary that should help you to choose your summer tyres. To have a broader perspective, read the descriptions of manufacturers, EU labels and the opinions of other drivers. Also remember that it is obligatory to install identical tyres on the same vehicle axle and to observe the minimum tread depth. The law specifies a depth of 1.6 mm, but for summer tyres a  depth of approximately 3 mm is generally recommended. It will allow you to travel safely and comfortably.

Now you are ready for the new season. Have a safe journey!