Best Tires for Malaysia: In Malaysia, where the wet tropical weather & high humidity and temperatures is a common occurence, choosing the right tires for your vehicle is essential. The right set of tires can significantly improve your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency while ensuring a comfortable ride in Malaysia’s unique weather conditions. Tires play a crucial role in providing the necessary traction on wet roads, maintaining stability at high speeds, and delivering a smooth and quiet ride.
With a wide array of tire options available in the market, selecting the best ones for Malaysia’s climate can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the top tire choices tailored to suit different driving needs and preferences. We will cover Comfort, Touring, UHP (Ultra High Performance), UUHP (Ultra Ultra High Performance), and EV (Electric Vehicle) tire categories, introducing one ore more exceptional options in each segment. Read on to discover the best tire recommendations that can handle Malaysia’s climate with ease and enhance your driving experience.
Table of Contents
Comfort Tires
Comfort tires are designed with an emphasis on a smooth and quiet ride, making them ideal for everyday driving in various conditions. These tires are known for their soft ride quality and reduced noise levels. For drivers in Malaysia, two of the top comfort tire options suitable for the country’s climate are the Michelin XM2+ and the Continental ComfortContact CC7.
Michelin Energy XM2+
The Michelin XM2+ is a popular choice among drivers seeking a reliable and comfortable tire that performs exceptionally well in wet conditions. One of the standout features of the XM2+ is its superior wet braking performance. In fact, it ranks highly in wet braking, which is not surprising given that it is specifically designed for this purpose. Michelin’s claims of a shorter braking distance compared to its premium competitors has been widely made public. This makes the XM2+ a safe and dependable choice for the wet and humid climate in Malaysia.
- Wet Braking: B
- Key features: High focus on wet braking, shorter braking distance compared to premium competitors.
- Mileage: UTQG Tread Wear: 420 (feedback)
Energy XM2+
- Launch: 2019
- Strength: Best in class wet braking & mileage
Check out our detail head to head comparison of Energy XM2+ against its competitors.
- Energy XM2+ vs
Continental ComfortContact CC7
Continental’s ComfortContact series has been a favorite among drivers seeking a smooth and quiet ride. The latest addition, the ComfortContact CC7, is the successor to the ComfortContact CC6 and brings several improvements. According to internal tests conducted by Continental, the new CC7 offers a 7% improvement in wet braking distances and a 5% improvement in both handling and dry braking over its predecessor, the CC6.
- Wet Braking: +7% improvement over ComfortContact CC6
- Handling: +5% improvement over ComfortContact CC6
- Dry Braking: +5% improvement over ComfortContact CC6
- Noise & Comfort: Maintained at the same level as ComfortContact CC6
- Fuel Efficiency: +2% improvement in Rolling Resistance over ComfortContact CC6
- Mileage: UTQG Tread Wear: 400
The ComfortContact CC7 is a solid choice for drivers seeking a tire that offers a smoother drive, quiet ride, and long tire life.
ComfortContact CC7
- Launch: 2022
- Strength: Comfort & Noise
Check out our detail head to head comparison of ComfortContact CC7 against its competitors.
- ComfortContact CC7 vs
Both the Michelin XM2+ and the Continental ComfortContact CC7 are excellent options for drivers in Malaysia looking for comfortable and reliable tires that are well-suited for the country’s climate. Their impressive wet braking performance and other features make them top contenders in the comfort tire category.
Below are some of the most popular tire sizes for the comfort segment, along with the types of cars they are typically suitable for:
- 175/65R14 and 175/65R15: These sizes are commonly found on compact cars like Perodua Myvi and some smaller sedans such as the Honda Jazz.
- 185/55R15 and 185/55R16: Suitable for subcompact and compact cars like the Perodua Alza and Honda City.
To compare the prices of different tires, feel free to check out our Malaysia Tire Price Table here .
Touring Tires
Touring tires are known for their excellent wet & handling performances. Ideal for highway driving and road trips, they provide balanced performance in various driving conditions, with excellent wet and dry grip. Among the options available, one tire stands out as the top choice for touring enthusiasts.
Michelin Primacy 4ST
The Michelin Primacy 4ST, successor to the widely respected 3ST, has been consistently recommended by automotive magazines since its launch in 2017. It distinguishes itself in various categories based on the joint press test done by Zhihu and Auto Bild:
- Wet Braking: The Primacy 4ST excels in wet braking, stopping 2.5 meters shorter than other premium brands in tests, even surpassing the esteemed Michelin Pilot Sport 4.
- Wet Handling: It also shines in wet handling, recording the highest average speed in a circuit test conducted under wet conditions.
- Aquaplaning: Although aquaplaning is not its strongest suit, it still ranked fourth in tests, achieving a speed of 70.7 km/h with a 15% slip on an 8mm water layer.
- Dry Braking: In dry conditions, the Primacy 4ST performed exceptionally well, tying for first place with the Continental Max Contact 6 in dry braking tests.
- Rolling Resistance: With low rolling resistance, it contributes to improved fuel efficiency, only surpassed by the Landsail LS588, which had significantly poorer wet braking results.
- Wear: It offers reasonable wear performance with a UTQG rating of 340, on par with its predecessor, the Primacy 3ST.
Primacy 4ST
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 1/1
- Strength: One of the undisputed best touring segment tire Michelin has ever produced with excellent wet braking as its key strength
Check out our detail head to head comparison of Primacy 4ST against its competitors.
- Primacy 4ST vs
Overall, the Michelin Primacy 4ST stands out as a top-performing, reliable, and worthy investment for those seeking the best touring tires. Below are some of the most popular tire sizes for the touring segment, along with the types of cars they are typically suitable for:
- 225/45R17: This is the ultimate touring size with popular cars such as Audi A3 Sedan & Toyota Corolla carrying this size.
To compare the prices of different tires, feel free to check out our Malaysia Tire Price Table here .
Ultra High Performance (UHP) Tires
Ultra-high-performance tires are designed for drivers who prioritize speed, handling, and control. These tires are built to provide enhanced steering responsiveness and better grip, especially in high-speed scenarios. UHP tires are typically used in sports cars, high-performance sedans, and other vehicles engineered for spirited driving. Among the UHP tires available, two models are particularly noteworthy: the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5.
Michelin Pilot Sport 5
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is a highly regarded UHP tire known for its exceptional performance on both dry and wet roads. In the 2023 AutoBild UHP Summer Tyre Test, it showcased its impressive capabilities against 19 other tires by finishing in 2nd place with an impressive overall balance while having a 89,500 KM mileage results !
Overall the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is a sport tire known for its precise steering and excellent driving dynamics. It offers good resistance to aquaplaning and short braking distances in both wet and dry conditions. However, it comes at a high price.
Pilot Sport 5
- Launch: 2022
- Press test wins: 1/6
- Strength: Excellent wet handling & comfort.
Check out our detail head to head comparison of Pilot Sport 5 against its competitors.
- Pilot Sport 5 vs
- Bridgestone Turanza T005
- Bridgestone Turanza 6
- Bridgestone Potenza Sport
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
- Michelin Primacy 4+
- Michelin Pilot Sport 3 (OE)
- Continental PremiumContact 7
- Continental SportContact 7
- Continental Premium Contact 6
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
- Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3
- Pirelli P Zero PZ4
- Yokohama Advan Sport V107
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 is another UHP tire that consistently delivers excellent performance. In the 2019 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test, it proved its credentials by placing 2nd out of 20 participants. The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 is renowned for its outstanding wet handling capabilities, providing high steering precision and short braking distances. Its exceptional low wear ensures long tire life, making it an excellent choice for those looking for value in terms of price and performance. However, it does come with a higher upfront cost and offers average comfort. Despite these considerations, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 is highly recommended for its overall performance and longevity.
It’s noteworthy that the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 is currently available in Malaysia, while the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, with even better performance, is available in Europe. We eagerly await the arrival of the 6 in Malaysia.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5
- Launch: 2018
- Press test wins: 4/22
- Strength: Excellent dry handling & wear.
Check out our detail head to head comparison of Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 against its competitors.
- Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 vs
Below are some of the most popular tire sizes for the Ultra High Performance (UHP) Tires, along with the types of cars they are typically suitable for:
- 225/45R18 : A super global UHP tire size where cars such as Mercedes-Benz C 250 & Volkswagen Golf GTI uses.
To compare the prices of different tires, feel free to check out our Malaysia Tire Price Table here .
Ultra Ultra High Performance (UUHP) Tires
Ultra Ultra High Performance (UUHP) tires are the pinnacle of performance tire technology. They are designed for high-performance sports cars and supercars, offering an unparalleled combination of speed, handling, and control. These tires deliver exceptional grip and steering precision, making them the preferred choice for drivers seeking maximum performance. Two prominent UUHP tires are the Continental Sport Contact 7 and the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S.
Continental Sport Contact 7
The Continental Sport Contact 7 is a newly released UUHP tire that sets a new benchmark in the performance tire segment. In the latest test, it showcased exceptional capabilities:
- Dry Braking: Ranked 1st
- Dry Handling: Ranked 1st
- Wet Braking: Ranked 1st
- Wet Handling: Ranked 1st,
- Aquaplaning: Ranked 8th in straight aquaplaning and 8th in curved aquaplaning
- Subjective Comfort: Ranked 6th
- Noise: Ranked 4th
- Rolling Resistance: Ranked 7th
The Continental Sport Contact 7 excels in wet braking and handling, demonstrating a considerable advantage over the competition. It is also the fastest tire in the dry with the shortest dry braking. However, it has some weaknesses in aquaplaning resistance and increased rolling resistance. Despite these drawbacks, it sets a new standard for the UUHP segment. It will be available in the Malaysia market by the end of 2023.
Sport Contact 7
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 8/10
- Strength: Best in class in wet & dry.
Check out our detail head to head comparison of Sport Contact 7 against its competitors.
- Sport Contact 7 vs
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S (PS4S) has long been a dominant force in the UUHP tire category. It has proven its mettle with exceptional grip in both dry and wet conditions, good aquaplaning resistance, low noise, and low rolling resistance. In the latest test, it demonstrated:
- Dry Braking: Ranked 2nd
- Dry Handling: Ranked 4th
- Wet Braking: Ranked 2nd
- Wet Handling: Ranked 3rd
- Aquaplaning: Ranked 3rd in straight aquaplaning and 3rd in curved aquaplaning
- Subjective Comfort: Ranked 4th
- Noise: Ranked 3rd
- Rolling Resistance: Ranked 2nd
The Pilot Sport 4 S continues to be a tire that excels in every test, with a range of abilities unrivaled by its competitors. It has slightly slower steering and less feedback than the best on test, but this trade-off brings levels of refinement that sportier tires cannot match. The Pilot Sport 4 S has been a legend in the UUHP tire segment, and with the launch of its successor anticipated in 2024, we are eagerly awaiting the next iteration of this outstanding tire.
Below are some of the most popular tire sizes for the Ultra Ultra High Performance (UHP) Tires, along with the types of cars they are typically suitable for:
- 275/35R20 : A common UUHP tire size where cars such as BMW M5 & Mercedes-Benz S 400 uses.
To compare the prices of different tires, feel free to check out our Malaysia Tire Price Table here .
EV Tires
The rapid rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the automotive landscape has spurred the development of specialized tires optimized for EV performance and efficiency. Among the latest entrants to the world of EV tires, the Hankook iON evo stands out with impressive attributes that defy conventional trade-offs, offering an optimal blend of performance and efficiency tailored for electric vehicles. In this section, we’ll explore the distinctive features of the Hankook iON evo, delve into its performance metrics, and assess how it fares against Michelin’s Pilot Sport 5, a highly-regarded standard summer tire.
Hankook iON evo: A New Star in EV Tires
The Hankook iON evo, launched in 2022, is a tire specifically designed for electric vehicles that challenges conventional trade-offs in tire performance. Skillfully crafted to combine both performance and efficiency, it is the first EV-specific tire to achieve a hat-trick in the EU Tyre label grade.
In a 2023 Auto Bild test with a Tesla Model S, the Hankook iON evo showcased its excellent wet performance, outperforming the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 in wet braking and handling. However, the Michelin tire demonstrated superior aquaplaning resistance. In dry conditions, the iON evo slightly outperformed the Pilot Sport 5 in braking, but both tires showed nearly identical handling capabilities. As a tire specifically designed for electric vehicles, the iON evo achieved a noteworthy rolling resistance, earning a top rating from the EU. In contrast, the Pilot Sport 5 had a higher rolling resistance. Additionally, the iON evo was quieter than the Pilot Sport 5 due to its low tread depth, although the latter offered more comfort. In summary, the iON evo excels in wet braking and rolling resistance, making it a great choice for electric vehicle owners who prioritize these features.
Hankook iON evo is one of the first few dedicated EV tires currently available in Malaysia.
iON evo
- Launch: 2022
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Superb rolling resistance rating without drawback in wet performances
Check out our detail head to head comparison of iON evo against its competitors.
- iON evo vs
Conclusion:
The choice of tires is crucial for optimizing vehicle performance, especially in a country like Malaysia with its unique climate conditions. As highlighted in this article, different tires offer distinct advantages, be it in terms of wet or dry performance, comfort, noise level, or rolling resistance. While the Hankook iON evo shines in wet performance and rolling resistance with superb target conflict management. Similarly, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 offers excellent wet handling and low wear, while the Continental Sport Contact 7 sets a new benchmark in dry and wet performance. Ultimately, the right tire choice should cater to the driver’s specific needs and preferences, taking into account factors such as driving style, road conditions, and weather patterns. By considering the featured tires, drivers in Malaysia can enjoy an optimal driving experience tailored to their unique requirements.