Rolling resistance
Less rolling resistance means better MPG, we find out which of our tyres is best for the wallet and the environment
The test
For many of us worried about the cost of motoring, this is the most important test we do, as it relates directly to how much fuel a car uses.
In the lab, we measured to industry standards how much energy is needed to turn a tyre over fixed periods of time at different speeds. An increase of six per cent in rolling resistance will result in a one per cent rise in fuel consumption.
Easiest on your wallet is the Pirelli. The frugal Scorpion was way ahead of the rest here, with a one per cent economy advantage over all its rivals – a major attraction for high-mileage drivers.
Master of building fuel-efficient tyres, Michelin, was next up, heading a tightly packed group led by Hankook, then Continental and Kumho.
Goodyear struggled in this test, finishing two per cent behind the standard set by Pirelli.
Rolling resistance
Pirelli 100.0
Michelin 93.2
Hankook 92.3
Continental 91.5
Kumho 90.0
Goodyear 88.4
