Comparison: Maxxis Premitra AS AP3 vs. Toyo Celsius AS2

Maxxis Premitra AS AP3 and Toyo Celsius AS2 are mainstream all‑season options aimed at drivers seeking year‑round usability without the cost of seasonal swaps. The Maxxis (made in CN, all-round) targets value and solid dry-road manners, while the Toyo (made in JP, all-round) leans on efficiency and safety reserves. Neither tyre has been officially replaced by a newer model at the time of writing. Learn more about the brands at Maxxis and Toyo.

Overall ratings and positioning: In our aggregated scoring, the Toyo Celsius AS2 holds a slight edge with 54% versus the Maxxis Premitra AS AP3’s 49%. Across comparable tests, results are mixed: in ACE (9 tyres tested) the Maxxis finished 7/9 and outperformed the Toyo at 9/9, while in AutoBild (11 tyres tested) the Toyo ranked 9/11 ahead of the Maxxis at 10/11. This yields a near tie in head‑to‑head placements, with the Toyo pulling ahead on overall score and breadth of strengths.

What the tests say:

• ACE: Maxxis showed competence in lateral aquaplaning, supporting stability in heavy water. Toyo trailed overall in this test.


• AutoBild: Toyo’s highlights included aquaplaning resistance, comfort and low rolling resistance, whereas the Maxxis’ relative bright spot was wet circle cornering. Placement favored Toyo.


• AutoBild 2022 qualitative findings:
  
  
  
  • Maxxis AP3 — Pros: short dry braking, attractive price. Cons: weak winter performance; limited grip and understeer on ice/snow; extended wet braking.
  
  
  • Toyo AS2 — Pros: high mileage, very good price‑performance ratio, strong aquaplaning reserves. Cons: understeer and delayed steering on wet; extended wet braking.
  
  
  
  

Strengths and weaknesses at a glance:

• Maxxis Premitra AS AP3
  
  
  
  • Strengths: Compelling price point; short dry braking; capable in lateral aquaplaning; decent wet cornering balance.
  
  
  • Weaknesses: Noticeably weak on snow and ice with understeer; long wet braking distances that cap its wet‑safety performance.
  
  
  
  


• Toyo Celsius AS2
  
  
  
  • Strengths: High mileage and low rolling resistance for efficiency; good aquaplaning reserves; balanced comfort; strong overall score.
  
  
  • Weaknesses: Wet braking still on the long side; steering response can feel delayed on wet, with a tendency to understeer.
  
  
  
  

Verdict: Which tyre is better overall? The Toyo Celsius AS2 is the more rounded choice for most drivers thanks to its better overall rating, efficiency (rolling resistance and mileage), and aquaplaning safety. It also placed ahead in the larger AutoBild field. The Maxxis Premitra AS AP3 remains a good budget‑focused alternative if you prioritize dry braking and price, and it did beat the Toyo in the ACE comparison; however, its winter grip and wet braking limitations are more pronounced.

If you value running costs and wet‑weather security, pick the Toyo Celsius AS2 from Toyo. If upfront value and dry‑road stopping are your priorities and you drive in milder winters, the Maxxis Premitra AS AP3 from Maxxis is the wallet‑friendly pick.