Continental EcoContact 6 vs Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: The Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 are top contenders in the summer tires segment, each promising enhanced driving experiences with their innovative features. The EcoContact 6 boasts remarkable fuel efficiency and longevity, thanks to Continental’s latest innovative compound. In contrast, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 impresses with its outstanding wet braking and longer tread life, ensuring safety and durability. As these two giants face off, expect a thrilling battle of technology, performance, and safety, making the choice between them an exciting challenge for drivers seeking the best in summer driving.
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Results: Continental EcoContact 6 vs Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2
The results below are from the 2022 Auto Bild Summer Tire Test, which included a total of 21 tires. The graph compares the Continental EcoContact 6 vs Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 based on relevant performance categories. The EcoContact 6 was used as a reference, set at the 100% mark.
The tire size of interest is 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Volkswagen Passat Variant B8.
Wet
In a wet performance comparison between the Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, both tires showcase unique strengths. When it comes to wet braking from 100-0 km/h, the EcoContact 6 takes a distance of 51.1 meters to come to a stop, while the EfficientGrip Performance 2 outperforms it slightly with a shorter stopping distance of 46.4 meters. For wet handling, which measures the average lap time speed, the EcoContact 6 reaches 67.7 Km/H, whereas the EfficientGrip Performance 2 takes the lead with a faster speed of 74.3 Km/H.
In terms of wet circle grip, measured in meters per second, the EcoContact 6 records a grip of 5.68 m/s, while the EfficientGrip Performance 2 demonstrates superior grip at 6.64 m/s. When assessing straight aquaplaning, or slipping speed, the EcoContact 6 achieves 81.5 Km/H, but the EfficientGrip Performance 2 again slightly surpasses it with a speed of 82.6 Km/H. Finally, in curved aquaplaning, which looks at lateral acceleration (max), the EcoContact 6 manages 3.75 m/sec², while the EfficientGrip Performance 2 shows a significant advantage with 4.54 m/sec².
Overall, its a total domination as the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 outperforms EcoContact 6 across various wet conditions, indicating its superior handling and safety in wet environments.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- +10% in wet braking
- +10% in wet handling (average lap speed)
- +17% in wet circle
- +1% in straight aquaplaning
- +21% in curved aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 both deliver strong performances, but with some noticeable differences. When it comes to dry braking from 100-0 km/h, the EcoContact 6 has a slight edge, stopping in 36.4 meters compared to the EfficientGrip Performance 2’s 36.8 meters, making it just 0.4 meters shorter in stopping distance.
For dry handling, which measures average lap time speed, the EcoContact 6 reaches a speed of 93.8 Km/H. The EfficientGrip Performance 2, however, outpaces it slightly with a higher speed of 95 Km/H. This indicates that while both tires perform well in dry conditions, the EcoContact 6 has a marginal advantage in braking, and the EfficientGrip Performance 2 leads in handling speed, providing a slightly quicker and more responsive driving experience.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- -1% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (average lap speed)
Noise
In terms of exterior noise performance, both the Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 aim to provide a quieter ride, but there is a distinct difference between them. The EcoContact 6 produces noise at 67.1 decibels, which is notably lower than the EfficientGrip Performance 2’s 68.8 decibels. This means that the EcoContact 6 is 1.7 decibels quieter, offering a slightly more peaceful and comfortable driving experience. In this aspect, while both tires work to minimize noise, the Continental EcoContact 6 has a clear advantage in providing a quieter ride.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.7 dB)
Wear
When examining wear performance, the Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 both offer impressive longevity, but the Goodyear tire takes a significant lead. The EcoContact 6 has a respectable wear life, lasting up to 41,480 kilometers. However, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 outshines it with an outstanding lifespan of 51,340 kilometers, lasting nearly 9,860 kilometers longer. This remarkable difference highlights the EfficientGrip Performance 2’s superior durability and longevity.
The crown jewel in wear testing, often conducted by reputable sources like Auto Bild, showcases the exceptional performance of the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, which ranked first among 21 competitors. This indicates that while both tires are durable, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 offers an exceptional balance, ensuring long mileage without compromising wet braking performance. For drivers seeking a tire that combines longevity with safety, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 stands out as a top choice.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- +24% in mileage
Rolling Resistance
In the rolling resistance comparison between Continental EcoContact 6 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, the EcoContact 6 leads with a lower resistance of 5.69 N/kN compared to the EfficientGrip’s 7.1 N/kN. This lower figure means the EcoContact 6 is more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. Although the EfficientGrip Performance 2 has commendable performance, the EcoContact 6’s superior efficiency makes it a top choice for those valuing fuel economy and reduced environmental impact.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- -20% in rolling resistance
Price
When comparing the prices of the 215/55 R17 models of the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and the Continental EcoContact 6, there’s hardly any difference between them. The EfficientGrip Performance 2 is priced at €151, while the EcoContact 6 is just a euro less at €150. This nominal difference places them roughly in the same price range, making cost a less significant factor in the decision-making process. Essentially, with only about a €1 difference, the choice between these two tires would likely be based more on their performance characteristics and personal preferences rather than price.
Tire size: 215/55 R17
- EfficientGrip Performance 2 : € 151
- EcoContact 6: € 150
Difference: ~ roughly the same price.
Summary
As a tire expert, I’ve closely analyzed the performances of both the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and the Continental EcoContact 6, and it’s clear to me that the EfficientGrip Performance 2 emerges as the superior choice. What truly sets it apart are its exceptional performances in wet conditions and mileage, areas that are often at odds in tire design.
The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 excels with shorter stopping distances in wet conditions and superior handling, providing drivers with safety and confidence. Notably, it also significantly outlasts the EcoContact 6 in mileage, offering exceptional longevity. This tire masterfully balances wet performance and durability, making it an outstanding choice for those seeking both safety and value. Despite the EcoContact 6’s merits, particularly in rolling resistance, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 is the clear frontrunner, delivering unparalleled wet performance and mileage.
Dr Edwin Pang