The first round of AUTO BILD’s Summer Tire Test 2025 has turned more than a few heads with its focus on braking performance in both wet and dry conditions. Using a VW Golf GTD as the test vehicle, 52 different tire models in size 225/40 R18 went head-to-head, and while it was no shock to see Bridgestone’s Potenza Sport leading the field, the presence of several mid-range and budget brands near the top was a genuine surprise.
read more about this tire: AUTO BILD Summer Tire Braking Test 2025: Tight Competition with Surprising StandoutsAgenda: Best value in test Better than average value Worse than average value Worst value in test
Above you can see the results of the Autobild 2025 225/40 R18 test performed by Autobild on a VW Golf GTD in 2025. This test was performed in 225/40 R18, but is applicable to other similar sizes, especially in the same tyre width (225). Bridgestone Potenza Sport is the best of 52 tested tyres according to tested properties (Stopping distance on dry, Stopping distance on wet, ). Other featured tyres include Michelin Pilot Sport 5, Hankook Ventus Evo, Kumho Ecsta PS71; Some tyres weren't included in the test, such as Kumho Ecsta Sport (PS72), Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 K127.
Tests usually don't cover the whole market - here is our selection what not to miss when shopping for tyres in this size.