ACE 2026 tested ten 225/40 R18 XL summer tyres on three Volkswagen Golf VIIIs. The first four scored at least 135 out of 170 points and received the highest recommendation, while the remaining six were also recommended.
Michelin won by one point
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S scored 141 points, just ahead of Continental SportContact 7 at 140. Michelin offered the best handling and strong braking. Continental was even better in wet braking, but weaker in lateral aquaplaning.
Bridgestone strongest on dry pavement
Third-placed Bridgestone Potenza Sport Evo scored 138 overall and led the dry section with 55 out of 60 points. Falken Azenis FK520 finished fourth with 135 points and stood out in aquaplaning tests.
A good middle ground between the price and the result
In the 2026-08-07 catalogue snapshot, Kumho Ecsta Sport PS72 XL cost 80,10 € and took seventh place, maintaining even wet and dry scores. This is a more rational compromise than the cheapest Linglong, whose 61,87 € price is accompanied by weaker dry pavement and economy results.
The cheapest model is not the weakest in the rain
Linglong Sport Master finished joint eighth overall, but its 68 points placed it among the two best wet performers. Its compromises appeared on dry roads and in economy, so the wet score alone cannot determine the overall conclusion.
Which choice is more suitable for whom?
- Michelin - when the best overall result and precise control are important.
- Continental – for strong braking and very close to the leader's result.
- Bridgestone - more for dry driving and appreciating stable handling.
- Falken or Pirelli – when aquaplaning resistance is important.
- Kumho - Looking for an even middle ground at a lower price.
- Linglong - only by consciously accepting the compromises of dry road and economy.
The limit of XL and the specific variant is important
ACE listed the 225/40 R18 XL grade, but the direct model and size reference is a place to shop, not proof that the speed, load, OEM, RunFlat, or specific tread revision tags match the tested kit. If the exact model is not found, the neutral direction of the catalogue is displayed.
Frequently asked questions
Who won ACE's 2026 test of 225/40 R18 XL summer tyres?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S won with 141 out of 170 points, one point ahead of Continental SportContact 7.
Which tyre was best on dry roads?
Bridgestone Potenza Sport Evo led the dry section with 55 out of 60 points and finished third overall.
Was the cheapest tyre the worst?
No. Linglong Sport Master was the cheapest exact model found in stock and shared eighth place. Nexen N'Fera Sport finished last.
Were all models recommended?
Yes. The top four were highly recommended and the other six were recommended.