Dunlop Sport Maxx RT tyre

Price: From £176.99 (205/50R17)

Contact: www.dunlop.eu

Dunlop has brought its racing technology to the road, with this all-new ultra-high-performance Sport Maxx RT tyre.

The newcomer replaces the 2008 Sport Maxx TT (seventh in our 2011 tyre test). RT stands for Racing Technology, and the design is ideal for sports cars. We tried it on smooth roads on the launch in Spain, and it felt comfortable and safe, if a little noisy. Then we hit the track to test it against a key rival.

First, we drove an Audi TTS around a wet track on both, then we compared performances in a slalom test in a rear-wheel-drive BMW Z4.

The RT’s large outside shoulder helped wet cornering, so we were able to push hard through tight apexes. Plus, the adaptive compound and short braking blocks coped well under pressure, too. However, the other tyre was more keen to turn in.

In the dry, we compared the Dunlop to its rival in an Audi S4, and were impressed with how the new RT resisted understeer. It also felt more planted and less slippery.

From launch there are more than 25 sizes on sale, ranging from 16 to 18 inches, with the cheapest in the range (a 17-inch 205/50) at £176.99. If you like track days, the Sport Maxx RT is a great buy, while the pricier Sport Maxx Race is exclusively for circuit use.

Verdict

Rating: ★★★★
What is it?
New ultra-high-performance Sport Maxx RT tyres from Dunlop.
What's good?
When it’s raining, the grip and braking are phenomenal. RT will be good for your fuel consumption, too.
What's bad?
Not as keen to turn into corners as rivals, and slightly noisy as well.