Bridgestone Turanza EV vs Continental ProContact RX (T1): The Epic Battle of EV-Optimized Titans! –> In the left corner, we have the newly launched titan of 2023 – Bridgestone’s Turanza EV. This Grand Touring All-Season tire is not just another tire; it’s a statement piece, especially curated for the sophisticated electric vehicle enthusiast. Bridgestone has meticulously crafted the Turanza EV to deliver a serene driving experience, ensuring EV drivers get the whisper-quiet luxury they desire. But it’s not just about the quiet ride. The Turanza EV boasts a remarkable wear life, promising long-lasting performance while being versatile enough to conquer all seasons, even tackling the unpredictability of light snow.
On the right, standing with time-tested reliability, is the Continental ProContact RX (T1). A tire that has been the trusty companion for many over the years. It epitomizes the harmonious blend of performance, safety, and longevity, a tire that has consistently delivered, regardless of the challenges it faced.
The stage is set. The question on everyone’s mind: Can the cutting-edge Bridgestone Turanza EV dethrone the long-reigning champion, the Continental ProContact RX (T1)? Buckle up and get ready for the ultimate tire showdown, where technology meets legacy. It’s the battle of the EV-optimized titans, and the roads will never be the same again!
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Results: Bridgestone Turanza EV vs Continental ProContact RX (T1)
Results below were taken from tire rack’s “Testing EV-Focused Grand Touring All-Season Tires 2023” test. A total of 2 tires were tested this time around. The graph below shows the comparison between Bridgestone Turanza EV vs Continental ProContact RX (T1) based on the relevant performance category. The Turanza EV was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are categorized as all season tires, Tire Rack has planned the snow & ice in its testing portfolio. A detailed testing on snow including acceleration, braking & handling will be available only at the end of the 2023 winter season. The tire size of interest is 235/40R19 which is a common tire size for Volvo V60 Recharge T8 & Lexus RC. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle for this tire test is an EV vehicle in the form of 2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance.
A Rain-soaked Duel on the Tarmac
As we all know, the evolution of electric vehicles has added new dimensions to tire performance. The power they unleash, the torque they produce, and their peculiar dynamics mean tire manufacturers must remain on their toes, especially when the rain pours and roads turn treacherous.
Wet Braking
In wet conditions, braking distances become the game-changer. They can be the thin line between a secure halt and an unfortunate incident. The Bridgestone Turanza EV, in testing, took a braking distance of 115.20 feet to come to a full stop. In contrast, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) showcased its prowess with an impressive 101.30 feet. That’s almost a 14-foot difference, which in the real world is a significant advantage, particularly in emergency situations.
Wet Handling (Subjective)
Handling in the rain isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the feel, the connection between the driver, car, and the road. On a subjective scale, the Turanza EV earned a respectable score of 6.13 out of 10. But the Continental ProContact RX (T1) outshone its competitor, securing a confident 6.88 out of 10. This suggests a higher level of driver confidence and a better sense of control with the Continental when navigating through wet terrains.
Wet Handling (Lap Time)
When the stopwatch is set, and every second counts, the performance differentiation becomes even more palpable. On a drenched lap, the Bridgestone Turanza EV posted a time of 31.70 seconds. Meanwhile, proving its superiority yet again, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) completed the lap in 30.98 seconds. While it might sound like a hair’s difference, in the world of racing and high-performance driving, such margins can be decisive.
Below are an in depth look on wet handling evaluation by the test drivers:
ProContact RX (T1) :
When our team tested the tires on the handling track, the measurable differences were evident in their driving experiences too. The ProContact RX (T1) gave a dependable grip in sharp turns and during the slalom, boosting our drivers’ confidence.
Test driver feedback on ProContact RX (T1)
Turanza EV :
On the other hand, with the Bridgestone’s Turanza EV, drivers had to be more deliberate during braking, adjusting their timing due to the added distance it took to decelerate and the reduced speeds required for turns. While the Turanza EV displayed a borderline grip, giving a sense of balance at its peak, this made navigating bends somewhat easier. However, this meant drivers exerted more effort, resulting in a slightly slower performance.
Test driver feedback on Turanza EV
Conclusion
Drawing the curtains on this rain-drenched comparison, it becomes abundantly clear that while both tires have their merits, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) exhibits a marked advantage in wet conditions. From braking distances to lap times, it consistently nudges ahead of the Turanza EV. And so, when the clouds gather and the roads get slippery, it’s a slam dunk victory for Continental!
ProContact RX (T1) :
- +14% in wet braking
- +4% in wet handling (subj)
- +2% in wet handling (lap time)
The High Noon Duel on Dry Asphalt
When the sun’s blazing and the roads radiate heat, the real mettle of a tire is tested. For electric vehicles, whose acceleration can often be breathtaking, how the rubber meets the road is paramount. Let’s explore the face-off between the Bridgestone Turanza EV and the Continental ProContact RX (T1) under the searing heat and dry tarmac.
Dry Braking
Safety often starts with a tire’s ability to come to a stop. Dry braking distances bring to light the precision engineering behind each tire. The Bridgestone Turanza EV registers a braking distance of 95.50 feet. Quite commendable, but the Continental ProContact RX (T1) demonstrates its ace engineering with a shorter stopping distance of just 83.60 feet. That’s nearly a 12-foot advantage, which, in real-world scenarios, can be the distance between a routine stop and a near miss.
Dry Handling (Subjective)
Driving isn’t just about numbers; it’s an experience, a feeling. Subjective dry handling offers insight into this intangible connection between the driver and the road. The Turanza EV scores an impressive 6.56 out of 10, showcasing its competence. But once again, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) flexes its finesse, scoring a slightly higher 6.94 out of 10. This margin underscores the driver’s enhanced confidence and perceived control with the Continental on dry surfaces.
Dry Handling (Lap Time)
When the tarmac is dry, every split second counts. Racing against the clock, the Bridgestone Turanza EV logs a time of 30.04 seconds for the lap. Nipping closely at its heels, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) edges ahead, completing the lap in a slightly quicker 29.47 seconds. In the realm of high-performance, even this slender margin can dictate the victor.
Below are an in depth look on dry handling evaluation by the test drivers:
ProContact RX (T1) :
On the handling circuit, the ProContact RX (T1) consistently delivered sharp and exact steering, with every move translating to the anticipated shift in direction.
Test driver feedback on ProContact RX (T1)
Turanza EV :
Conversely, the Turanza EV responded with a bit of delay to steering commands, making it challenging to perfectly coordinate the turns.
Test driver feedback on Turanza EV
Conclusion
In this sunlit showdown, while the competition was fiercely tight, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) consistently displayed its slight yet noticeable edge over the Bridgestone Turanza EV. Whether it’s the braking, the feel, or the race against time, Continental, albeit closely, always managed to secure its lead. It’s evident – under the scorching sun and on dry roads, the Continental shows its clear strengths especially in dry braking.
ProContact RX (T1) :
- +14% in dry braking
- +2% in dry handling (subj)
- +2% in dry handling (lap time)
Noise/Comfort/Ride Quality
NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) is an acronym that’s music to an automotive enthusiast’s ears. When considering electric vehicles, with their inherent quietness, the tire’s contribution to NVH becomes even more crucial. Let’s gauge the performances of Bridgestone Turanza EV and the Continental ProContact RX (T1) on this very stage.
Ride Quality
A tire’s ability to absorb road imperfections and offer a plush ride is an art in itself. Bridgestone’s Turanza EV impresses with a score of 8, illustrating its meticulous engineering in ensuring optimal comfort. On the other hand, Continental’s ProContact RX (T1) comes close, with a score of 7.68. Both tires are commendable, but the Turanza EV takes a slight lead in cushioning passengers from the road’s whims.
Noise
Silence is golden, especially when you’re gliding on the road. Both the Turanza EV and the ProContact RX (T1) demonstrate their acumen in this domain, tying at an impressive 7.75 out of 10. Clearly, both tire manufacturers have invested deeply in minimizing road noise, ensuring passengers are cocooned in tranquility.
Steering and Road Handling
Feel and feedback from the road, especially through the steering wheel, can be a delicate balancing act. While the Turanza EV scores a 7, suggesting a good connection with the road, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) inches ahead with a 7.13. This implies a marginally superior sense of control and responsiveness with the Continental tire, ensuring drivers remain intimately connected with every twist and turn.
Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality (Average)
Taking an average of the aforementioned parameters provides a holistic perspective on the NVH performance. Bridgestone’s Turanza EV emerges with a score of 7.58, while the Continental ProContact RX (T1) closely trails at 7.52. The competition is neck-to-neck, showcasing the expertise both manufacturers bring to the table.
Conclusion
NVH is a symphony of design, engineering, and attention to detail. In this orchestration of quietude and comfort, both Bridgestone’s Turanza EV and Continental’s ProContact RX (T1) have showcased their maestros’ skills. While the results are incredibly close, the Turanza EV marginally outperforms in ride quality, whereas the ProContact RX (T1) slightly excels in steering and road handling. The overall NVH experience is almost indistinguishable, reflecting the tire industry’s pinnacle of innovation and dedication.
ProContact RX (T1) :
- 0% in average of Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality.
Bridgestone Turanza EV vs. Continental ProContact RX (T1): The Range Race!
Range anxiety is a term EV owners are all too familiar with. One of the biggest determinants of an electric vehicle’s practicality and usability is how far it can travel on a single charge. Tires play a significant role in this, influencing the overall efficiency of the vehicle. Let’s dive into how Bridgestone’s Turanza EV squares up against the Continental ProContact RX (T1) when it’s all about the miles.
Estimated Range at 100% Charge
Every mile matters, especially when you’re on the open road. The Bridgestone Turanza EV, when fully juiced up, promises to deliver an estimated range of 250 miles. A commendable figure, suggesting a harmony of design, efficiency, and performance.
However, in this marathon of mileage, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) seems to have an extra spring in its step. Offering an impressive estimated range of 294 miles on a full charge, the ProContact RX (T1) goes that extra mile (or in this case, an extra 44 miles) to ensure you’re cruising longer between charges.
Conclusion
While both tires showcase their prowess in optimizing EV efficiency, the numbers speak for themselves. The Continental ProContact RX (T1) takes the crown in this range race, providing a longer stretch of road on a single charge. The difference, though not monumental, is significant enough for those looking to squeeze out every possible mile from their EVs. In the world of electric vehicles, where every mile counts, Continental shows its range dominance.
ProContact RX (T1) :
- 100% @ Turanza EV
- 118% @ ProContact RX (T1)
Navigating the UTQG
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system is crucial for informed decision-making among vehicle enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. It provides a glimpse into a tire’s projected performance in tread wear, traction, and temperature resistance. Let’s delve into the UTQG ratings of the Bridgestone Turanza EV and the Continental ProContact RX (T1) and see how they align with the mileage warranties offered by both.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone | Turanza EV | All | 500 | A | A |
| Continental | ProContact RX (T1) | All | 400 | A | A |
Tread Wear
Tread wear is a primary determinant of a tire’s longevity. The higher the number, the longer the tire’s projected lifespan. Bridgestone’s Turanza EV boasts a tread wear grade of 500, suggesting it’s built for the long haul. This aligns well with its generous mileage warranty of 50,000 miles.
On the other hand, Continental’s ProContact RX (T1) comes with a tread wear rating of 400. Though slightly lower than its counterpart, this grade is in harmony with its mileage warranty, which stands at 40,000 miles. Both products have their UTQG tread wear ratings aptly reflecting their respective mileage warranties.
Mileage warranty:
- Turanza EV: 50,000 miles
- ProContact RX (T1): 40,000 miles
Traction & Temperature
In terms of traction and temperature, both tires showcase uniformity, scoring an ‘A’ grade. This indicates that both the Turanza EV and ProContact RX (T1) provide excellent traction in varied conditions and have a commendable ability to dissipate heat, ensuring durability and performance consistency.
Conclusion
The UTQG ratings provide a window into the expected performance and durability of a tire. Both Bridgestone’s Turanza EV and Continental’s ProContact RX (T1) have their tread wear ratings perfectly mirroring the mileage warranties, showcasing transparency and alignment between the projected lifespan and the actual warranty offered. In essence, both brands ensure that their customers receive not only a product but also a promise that stands the test of time (and miles!).
Price
Bridgestone Turanza EV vs. Continental ProContact RX (T1): Pricing & Pedigree
When considering tire options, pricing becomes a crucial factor for many buyers. But along with the price tag, it’s also essential to understand the value and lineage the tire brings. Let’s juxtapose the costs of Bridgestone’s Turanza EV and the Continental ProContact RX (T1), especially in the context of their association with iconic cars.
Tire Pricing
For the specific tire size of 235/40R19:
- Turanza EV: $286
- ProContact RX (T1) : $311
Difference: +8% more expensive for ProContact RX (T1).
Historical Pedigree
It’s essential to note that the ProContact RX (T1) isn’t just another tire. It carries a badge of honor, being one of the OEM suppliers for the Tesla Model 3, a benchmark in the electric vehicle industry. This association with Tesla bestows upon it a legacy of quality, performance, and trust. Often, such OEM affiliations justify the additional cost, as they speak volumes about the rigorous testing and quality standards the tire must have met to be chosen by leading automakers.
Conclusion
While the Bridgestone Turanza EV offers a competitive price point, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) comes with a slightly higher cost but brings along a rich pedigree of being associated with Tesla. For many, this might justify the 8% premium, knowing that the tire has been deemed fit for one of the world’s leading EVs. The final choice will always hinge on individual priorities: whether it’s pure price consideration or the value and legacy a product carries with it.
Summary
As a seasoned tire expert, having analyzed countless tires over the years, I must say the ProContact RX (T1) truly shines when it comes to summer performances, particularly in wet conditions. It exhibits a dominance that’s hard to overlook. However, as we often see in the tire industry, there’s no such thing as a perfect tire. The ProContact RX (T1) comes with its trade-offs, notably a 20% reduction in mileage when compared to some competitors.
We’re still awaiting winter performance data, which could paint a more comprehensive picture. But, based on the results in hand, the Continental ProContact RX (T1) is decisively our top pick!
Dr Edwin Pang