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The Continental SportContact 7 delivers the best overall summer performance for Audi owners, achieving 96% dry grip and 92% wet grip ratings from owner reviews—the highest scores in independent testing[1]. For maximum value without sacrificing performance, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 offers exceptional wet grip, lowest noise levels, and typically costs 10-15% less than Michelin alternatives[2]. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S remains the benchmark for ultra-high performance, though newer competitors now match or exceed its capabilities in specific metrics[3].
Summer Tire Comparison for Audi
| Tire | Type | Dry Grip | Wet Grip | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continental SportContact 7 | Max Performance | 96%[1] | 92%[1] | Ultimate performance | $200-$280 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | Max Performance | 93%[1] | 87%[1] | Proven benchmark | $220-$300 |
| Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 | UHP Summer | 94%[1] | 91%[1] | Best value | $180-$260 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 5 | UHP Summer | 91%[1] | 92%[1] | Balanced performance | $200-$280 |
| Pirelli P Zero PZ4 | Max Performance | 87%[4] | 76%[4] | OEM replacement | $220-$320 |
| Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 | Max Performance | 94%[3] | 90%[3] | Track days | $180-$250 |
| Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS | Extreme Performance | 99%[1] | 81%[1] | Track focused | $200-$280 |
| Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601 | UHP Summer | 92%[1] | 81%[1] | Spirited driving | $170-$240 |
| Vredestein Ultrac Vorti | UHP Summer | 93%[1] | 83%[1] | European touring | $160-$220 |
| Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3 | UHP Summer | 90%[5] | 85%[5] | Audi OEM option | $150-$200 |
For year-round options, see our guides on best all-season tires for Audi and best winter tires for Audi.
Best Overall: Continental SportContact 7
The Continental SportContact 7 has outperformed all competitors in every major tire test conducted since its release[2]. Continental’s Black Chili rubber compound delivers exceptional grip for acceleration, cornering, and braking across varying conditions.
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 96%
- Wet grip rating: 92%
- Treadwear: 67% (trade-off for grip)
- Comfort: 76%
- Best fit: Audi S4, S5, RS3, RS5, RS6
The SportContact 7 excels in braking power with the shortest stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces[6]. In direct testing against the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, the Continental showed +3% advantage in dry braking and +0.4% in dry handling[7].
Pros:
- Best-in-class dry and wet braking
- Precise steering response
- Exceptional cornering grip
- 17% improved treadwear over predecessor[7]
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Slightly louder than competitors (68-72 dB)[7]
- Shorter tread life than touring alternatives
Performance Benchmark: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S remains the established king of the ultra-high performance summer tire segment[8]. Despite newer competition, it continues delivering supremely responsive handling and incomparable grip levels.
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 93%
- Wet grip rating: 87%
- Treadwear: 80%
- Comfort: 85%
- Best fit: Audi A4, A5, A6, S-line models
Michelin’s Dynamic Response Technology ensures the tire adapts fluidly to road conditions, providing ultra-precise steering, remarkable cornering power, and tread life that exceeds expectations for a summer tire[9]. The premium touch finish and deep rim protector add aesthetic appeal with practical protection.
Pros:
- Proven track record
- Excellent tread life for performance tire
- Refined ride quality
- Wide size availability
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Wet performance slightly behind newer rivals[3]
- OEM version differs from aftermarket
Best Value: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 finished second in the 2025 Tire Rack UUHP Summer Tire Test, offering exceptional wet grip, precise steering, and strong dry traction at prices 10-15% below Michelin and Continental[2].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 94%
- Wet grip rating: 91%
- Treadwear: 73%
- Noise level: Quietest in tests[10]
- Best fit: Audi A3, A4, A5, Q3, Q5
Goodyear’s Wet Braking Pro Technology increases micro-contact between tire and road, resulting in improved traction and shorter braking distances in rain[6]. The Dry Stability Plus Technology enhances grip during sharp maneuvers and high-speed driving.
Pros:
- Outstanding wet performance
- Lowest noise levels in segment[7]
- Better fuel economy than competitors[7]
- Excellent value proposition
Cons:
- Slightly behind in dry braking vs. SportContact 7
- Minor room for improvement in front-end bite[3]
- Less aggressive appearance
Balanced Choice: Michelin Pilot Sport 5
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 delivers the best balance between performance and everyday usability, achieving 91% dry grip with class-leading 92% wet grip[1].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 91%
- Wet grip rating: 92%
- Treadwear: 84%
- Comfort: 85%
- Best fit: Audi A4, A6, Q5 (daily drivers)
For Audi owners wanting summer tire performance without track-focused compromises, the Pilot Sport 5 offers exceptional longevity while maintaining engaging handling characteristics[11].
Pros:
- Best wet performance in class
- Excellent tread life
- Comfortable ride quality
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Not as sharp as PS4S in dry handling
- Premium pricing
- Less aggressive for performance enthusiasts
OEM Choice: Pirelli P Zero PZ4
Pirelli P Zero tires serve as original equipment on many performance Audi models, offering a tire specifically engineered for the vehicle’s suspension geometry and handling characteristics[4].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 87%
- Wet grip rating: 76%
- Treadwear: 57%
- Best fit: Audi RS models, S-line (OEM replacement)
The P Zero’s asymmetric tread pattern optimizes grip in both dry and wet conditions while the nano-composite compound delivers uniform tread wear essential for sports driving[4]. Customer reviews consistently praise dry traction with ratings in the 9-10 range.
Pros:
- Excellent dry grip
- Precise handling
- Short braking distances
- Designed for performance Audis
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Shorter tread life than competitors[4]
- Wet performance trails newer tires
- Firmer ride than touring alternatives
For budget alternatives, see our guide on cheapest tires for Audi.
Track-Ready: Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02
The Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 achieved the best wet braking in Tire Rack’s 2025 UUHP test, stopping from 60 mph in just 39.6 meters—10 meters shorter than budget alternatives[3].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 94%
- Wet grip rating: 90%
- Treadwear: 75%
- Best fit: Audi S3, S4, TT, track day enthusiasts
The ECS02 showcases commendable performance managing high temperatures and wear, making it ideal for spirited driving sessions and track days[9]. It demonstrates improved responsiveness and handling under vigorous driving conditions.
Pros:
- Best wet braking performance
- Excellent heat management
- Strong track durability
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Slightly less refined than PS4S on street
- Noise levels above average
- Limited size availability
Maximum Grip: Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS
The Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS delivers the highest dry grip rating at 99%—effectively the maximum achievable in street-legal tires[1]. This tire targets serious track enthusiasts.
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 99%
- Wet grip rating: 81%
- Treadwear: 52%
- Comfort: 41%
- Best fit: Audi RS3, TTRS, track-focused builds
In wet testing, the RE-71RS showed clear advantages in traction and drivability, stopping from 60 mph in just 155 feet—15-20 feet shorter than most competition[12].
Pros:
- Absolute maximum dry grip
- Exceptional braking performance
- Track-proven compound
- Predictable at the limit
Cons:
- Very short tread life
- Poor ride comfort
- High road noise
- Not practical for daily driving
Spirited Driving: Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601
The Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601 offers 92% dry grip at pricing below premium European brands, making it attractive for performance-oriented Audi owners seeking value[1].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 92%
- Wet grip rating: 81%
- Treadwear: 65%
- Comfort: 75%
- Best fit: Audi A4, A5, TT
Yokohama’s motorsports heritage translates to genuine driving engagement with precise feedback through the steering wheel.
Pros:
- Strong dry performance
- Competitive pricing
- Precise steering feel
- Good tread life for performance tire
Cons:
- Wet performance trails leaders
- Less refined ride
- Limited size options
European Touring: Vredestein Ultrac Vorti
The Vredestein Ultrac Vorti combines 93% dry grip with 85% comfort ratings, delivering the European grand touring experience Audi owners expect[1].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 93%
- Wet grip rating: 83%
- Treadwear: 84%
- Comfort: 85%
- Best fit: Audi A6, A7, A8
Italian design heritage (Vredestein is now owned by Apollo) brings aesthetic appeal alongside genuine performance capability.
Pros:
- Excellent comfort-to-performance balance
- Strong tread life
- Refined ride quality
- Attractive sidewall design
Cons:
- Less aggressive than track-focused options
- Limited US dealer network
- Wet performance behind segment leaders
OEM Budget: Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3
Hankook supplies original equipment tires for Audi A4 and S4 models, making the Ventus S1 Evo 3 a cost-effective OEM replacement[5].
Key specifications:
- Dry grip rating: 90%
- Wet grip rating: 85%
- Treadwear: 78%
- Best fit: Audi A4, S4 (OEM sizes)
As an Audi-approved OEM supplier, Hankook tires maintain proper fitment and performance characteristics at lower cost than premium European alternatives.
Pros:
- OEM-approved for Audi
- Competitive pricing
- Good all-around performance
- Wide size availability
Cons:
- Less prestigious than European brands
- Performance trails segment leaders
- Average wet braking
How to Choose Summer Tires for Your Audi
By Driving Style
Daily commuting with occasional spirited driving:
- Michelin Pilot Sport 5
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
Performance driving with track days:
- Continental SportContact 7
- Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02
Dedicated track use:
- Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS
- Yokohama ADVAN A052
By Audi Model
- A3, A4, A5 (standard): Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 or Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3
- S3, S4, S5: Continental SportContact 7 or Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
- RS3, RS5, RS6, RS7: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Continental SportContact 7
- Q5, Q7 SUV: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
For SUV-specific options, see our best tires for Audi Q5 guide.
Key Takeaways
- Continental SportContact 7 leads all testing with 96% dry grip and 92% wet grip ratings[1]
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 offers best value with top-tier performance at 10-15% lower prices[2]
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S remains the proven benchmark, though newer tires now match specific metrics[3]
- OEM Pirelli P Zero delivers excellent dry grip but trails in wet performance and tread life[4]
- Choose tire compound based on primary use: daily driving (Pilot Sport 5), spirited driving (SportContact 7), or track days (RE-71RS)
Frequently Asked Questions
What summer tires come factory on Audi?
Audi uses Goodyear, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Michelin, Dunlop, Continental, and Hankook as original equipment depending on model and trim level[5]. Performance models typically receive Pirelli P Zero or Continental SportContact tires. The OEM tire compound may differ slightly from aftermarket versions of the same model.
Are summer tires worth it for Audi?
Summer tires significantly outperform all-season tires in warm weather, offering shorter braking distances (up to 20 feet from 60 mph), improved cornering grip, and more responsive handling[3]. For Audi owners in climates with consistent warm seasons who prioritize driving dynamics, dedicated summer tires extract maximum performance from Audi’s chassis engineering.
How long do summer tires last on an Audi?
Summer tires typically last 20,000-40,000 miles depending on driving style, tire compound, and vehicle weight[4]. Performance-focused tires like the Bridgestone RE-71RS may last only 10,000-15,000 miles with aggressive driving, while touring-oriented summer tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 often exceed 30,000 miles.
Can I use summer tires year-round?
Summer tires should not be used when temperatures consistently drop below 45°F (7°C). The rubber compound hardens in cold weather, dramatically reducing grip and increasing stopping distances. For year-round capability, consider all-season or all-weather alternatives from our all-season tire guide.
References
- Tyre Reviews. (2024). Audi S4 Tyres – Tyre Reviews And Ratings. https://www.tyrereviews.com/Tyres_For/Audi/S4.htm
- Reddit r/TyreReviews. (2025). Recommendation for summer tires Audi A4 Quattro.
Recommendation for summer tires Audi A4 Quattro
byu/Allure34 inTyreReviews - Tyre Reviews. (2025). 2025 Tire Rack UUHP Summer Tyre Test. https://www.tyrereviews.com/Tyre-Tests/2025-Tyre-Rack-UUHP-Summer-Tyre-Test.htm
- SimpleTire. (2025). Pirelli P Zero Tire Reviews & Ratings. https://simpletire.com/brands/pirelli-tires/p-zero/reviews
- OR24. (2025). Original Audi A4 S4 B9 8W 19 inch summer tires. https://www.or24.de/en/audi/original-audi-a4-s4-b9-8w-19-inch-summer-tires-8w0601025es-rims-silver/a-36048/
- Blackcircles. (2024). Continental SportContact 7 vs Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. https://www.blackcircles.com/news/continental-sportcontact-7-vs-goodyear-eagle-f1-asymmetric-6
- PitStopArabia. (2025). SportContact 7 vs Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. https://www.pitstoparabia.com/en/news/sportcontact-7-vs-eagle-f1-asymmetric-6
- YouTube. (2023). Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 – In Depth Review.
- Wheel Set Go. (2025). Head-to-Head: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs. Continental ExtremeContact Sport. https://www.wheelsetgo.com/blog/head-to-head-michelin-pilot-sport-4s-vs-continental-extremecontact-sport/
- Tire Reviews. (2025). Best Performance Summer Tires For 2025. https://www.tire-reviews.com/Tire-Tests/Best-Performance-Summer-Tires-For-2025.htm
- Michelin Australia. (2024). Search the right tyre for your AUDI S4 2024. https://www.michelin.com.au/auto/browse-tyres/by-vehicle/audi/2024/a4/s4/3.0-v6-tdi-347
- Tire Rack. (2025). Extreme Performance Summer Tire Real-World Ride & Drive Report. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/extreme-performance-summer-tire-real-world-ride-drive-report?ttid=343
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
