Premium vs Budget tires: Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Goodtrip GM-5

Premium vs Budget tires: Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Goodtrip GM-5 –> When it comes to choosing the right tires for your vehicle, the debate often centers around the classic dilemma of premium quality versus budget-friendly options. Today, we delve into this topic by comparing two distinct contenders: the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5. This comparison isn’t just about performance and price; it’s about addressing the age-old question: are tires made in China actually good?

On one side of the ring, we have the Continental UltraContact UC7, a representation of premium craftsmanship. Known for its superior grip, durability, and performance, the UC7 is a testament to Continental’s commitment to quality and innovation in tire technology.

On the other side, we find the Goodtrip GM-5, one of the six brands under China’s Zhongce Rubber Group. The GM-5 enters the scene as a budget-friendly alternative, challenging the notion that lower prices equate to compromised quality. With its competitive pricing, the GM-5 is poised to shake up the market and offer a viable option for those looking to save without sacrificing safety and performance.

As we pit these two tires against each other, the question looms: Is the lower-priced Goodtrip GM-5 truly worth considering over the esteemed Continental UC7? Join us as we hype up this battle of the treads and unravel the mysteries behind the price tags. Stay tuned to find out if the Goodtrip GM-5 can hold its own in this clash of tire titans.

Results: Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Goodtrip GM-5 (Premium vs Budget tires)

Results below were taken from our own 2023 Top Tire Review APAC Touring Tire Test with a total of 6 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Goodtrip GM-5 based on the relevant performance category. The Continental UltraContact UC7 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.

For handling performances, the evaluation was done on the subjective evaluation and lap times. Note that for subjective evaluations, we consider 1 point to be equivalent to 10%. This means that if tire A receives a rating of 7 and tire B receives a rating of 8, tire B is deemed 10% better than tire A. For noise tests, an increase of 1 dB corresponds to a 10% change in rating. This reflects the logarithmic nature of decibel measurements. We centered our tire test on the BMW F30 equipped with brand-new 225/45 R18 tires, amidst the tropical setting of West Java, Indonesia, with temperatures ranging between 28-35°C.

Wet

In the realm of wet performance, both the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5 exhibit distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Continental UltraContact UC7 demonstrates its superiority in wet braking, stopping at 18.84 meters, whereas the Goodtrip GM-5 trails slightly behind, requiring 19.95 meters to come to a halt. This difference of about 1.1 meters in braking distance under wet conditions can be crucial in everyday driving, especially in emergency situations.

When it comes to subjective wet handling, the UltraContact UC7 scores a 7.5 out of 10, indicating a higher level of driver confidence and control compared to the GM-5, which scores a 7.0. This half-point difference suggests that drivers might feel more secure and in command with the UC7 during wet conditions.

Furthermore, objective measurements in wet handling, assessed through lap times, reveal that the UltraContact UC7 completes a lap in 27.7 seconds, outperforming the GM-5 which takes 28.2 seconds. This half-second difference, though seemingly small, is significant in the realm of tire performance, highlighting the UC7’s superior grip and handling in wet conditions.

In summary, while the Goodtrip GM-5 offers commendable performance, especially considering its budget-friendly nature, the Continental UltraContact UC7 edges ahead in wet conditions, offering shorter braking distances, better handling, and faster lap times, which collectively contribute to a safer and more responsive driving experience.

GM-5 :

• -6%in wet braking
• -5% in wet handling (subj)
• -2% in wet handling (lap time)
• -1% in aquaplaning

Dry

In dry conditions, the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Goodtrip GM-5 exhibit notable differences in performance. Focusing on dry braking, the UltraContact UC7 demonstrates a clear advantage, stopping at 36.07 meters. In contrast, the Goodtrip GM-5 requires a longer distance of 39.29 meters to come to a complete stop. This difference of approximately 3.22 meters ! is significant, especially in situations where every meter counts for safety.

Regarding subjective dry handling, the UltraContact UC7 scores a 7.4 out of 10, indicating a higher level of driver satisfaction in terms of control and responsiveness compared to the GM-5, which scores a 6.9. This suggests that drivers might perceive a more reliable and controlled driving experience with the UC7 in dry conditions.

When we turn to objective assessments of dry handling, measured through lap times, the UltraContact UC7 completes a circuit in 26.9 seconds, whereas the GM-5 takes longer, finishing in 28.9 seconds. This two-second gap in lap times underscores the UltraContact UC7’s superior performance in terms of grip and agility in dry conditions.

Overall, while the Goodtrip GM-5 presents a decent option in dry conditions, the Continental UltraContact UC7 stands out with shorter braking distances, more favorable driver handling impressions, and quicker lap times, all of which contribute to a more efficient and safer driving experience on dry roads.

GM-5 :

• -8% in dry braking
• -4% in dry handling (subj)
• -7% in dry handling (lap time)

NVH (Noise Vibration & Harshness)

The NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) performances of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5 reveal distinct differences, crucial for overall driving comfort and experience.

In terms of pass-by noise, the UltraContact UC7 registers at 70.7 decibels, slightly quieter than the GM-5, which measures at 71.2 decibels. This difference of 0.5 decibels, though not substantial, can contribute to a slightly quieter environment for external observers.

Interior noise levels, experienced by passengers and the driver, show a more noticeable difference. The UltraContact UC7 generates 71.7 decibels of noise inside the vehicle, whereas the GM-5 is louder, with 73.2 decibels. This difference of 1.5 decibels in the interior noise level can significantly affect the cabin’s acoustic comfort, especially during long drives.

Subjectively, the UltraContact UC7 is rated at 7.05 out of 10 for comfort, indicating a higher level of perceived smoothness and cushioning compared to the GM-5, which scores 6.65. This difference reflects the UltraContact UC7’s better ability to absorb road imperfections and provide a smoother ride.

In terms of subjective noise evaluation, the UltraContact UC7 again leads with a score of 7.25 out of 10, compared to the GM-5’s 6.7. This suggests that the UltraContact UC7 is perceived as quieter, contributing to a more pleasant driving experience.

Overall, the Continental UltraContact UC7 outperforms the Goodtrip GM-5 in NVH characteristics, offering a quieter external and internal environment, alongside better subjective ratings in comfort and noise, culminating in a more serene and enjoyable driving experience.

GM-5 :

• -5%  in pass by noise (+0.5 dB)
• -13% in interior noise (+1.3 dB)
• -4% in subjective comfort
• -5% in subjective noise

Rolling Resistance

When comparing the rolling resistance of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5, a notable aspect emerges where the GM-5 slightly outperforms its competitor. Rolling resistance is a critical factor in determining a tire’s efficiency, as it directly impacts fuel consumption and vehicle emissions.

The Goodtrip GM-5 has a rolling resistance coefficient of 8.1 N/kN, which is marginally lower than the 8.3 N/kN exhibited by the Continental UltraContact UC7. This difference, although small, indicates that the GM-5 is slightly more efficient in terms of energy conservation, potentially leading to minor improvements in fuel efficiency and a reduced environmental impact.

This aspect of rolling resistance serves as a silver lining for the Goodtrip GM-5, providing it with a unique advantage in an otherwise dominantly Continental UltraContact UC7-favored comparison. While the differences in performance in other areas like wet and dry handling, braking, and NVH characteristics are tilted in favor of the UltraContact UC7, the GM-5’s lower rolling resistance coefficient suggests it has its strengths, particularly in the realm of fuel economy and sustainability.

GM-5 :

• +2% in rolling resistance

Price

When comparing the prices of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5 for the tire size 225/45 R18, there is a stark difference in cost, highlighting the considerable savings offered by the GM-5.

Tire size: 225/45 R18

• UltraContact UC7:  RM 580

• Goodtrip GM-5 : RM 230

Difference: -150% cheaper for Goodtrip GM-5

The UltraContact UC7 is priced at RM 580, which is significantly higher compared to the Goodtrip GM-5, priced at RM 230. This price difference is substantial, with the GM-5 being about 150% cheaper than the UC7. Such a large discrepancy in pricing underscores the Goodtrip GM-5 as a highly budget-friendly option, offering considerable cost savings for consumers. This price advantage may be particularly appealing to those looking for a more economical tire choice without necessarily needing the top-tier performance features of more expensive models like the UltraContact UC7.

Summary

As a tire expert, my analysis of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Goodtrip GM-5 leads to a clear conclusion: the UltraContact UC7 is unequivocally the superior tire in terms of performance. Expecting tires like the Goodtrip GM-5, which originate from China, to match the high standards set by established brands like Continental is currently not realistic.

The differences in key performance areas, particularly in wet and dry braking, are significant and warrant attention. The UltraContact UC7 outperforms the GM-5 notably in wet braking, stopping approximately 1.1 meters shorter. In dry conditions, this difference is even more pronounced, with the UltraContact UC7 requiring around 3.22 meters less to halt. These distances are not just numbers; they represent crucial moments where superior braking can mean the difference between safety and risk.

However, it’s impossible to overlook the attractive price point of the Goodtrip GM-5. Priced at nearly 150% cheaper than the UltraContact UC7, it poses a compelling option for those under budget constraints. This leads to an essential question that every tire buyer must consider: Can you live with the trade-offs?

Choosing a tire like the GM-5 means accepting compromises in critical performance areas for the sake of affordability. It’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, as tires play a pivotal role in vehicle safety and performance. Ultimately, while the allure of savings is strong, it’s crucial to weigh it against the potential risks and limitations in performance, especially in crucial aspects like braking and handling. As tire technology continues to evolve, perhaps the gap will narrow, but for now, the choice between premium and budget tires like the UltraContact UC7 and Goodtrip GM-5 is a matter of balancing cost with expectations in safety and performance.

Dr Edwin Pang