Top 10 Best Tires for Fuel Economy 2023 – Tested And Rated
Even though we invest in servicing our vehicles regularly, the fuel efficiency we desire often gets compromised by our tires. However, by opting for low-rolling resistance tires, we can not only enhance our mileage but also embark on long trips without any concerns.
Based on my extensive experience, rigorous testing, thorough research, and valuable input from consumers and tire experts, I have compiled a list of the top tires for fuel economy. These tires not only excel in fuel efficiency but also are highly durable, making you save on both sides.
Best Overall
Continental True Contact Tour
Imagine the convenience of having low rolling resistance, high fuel-efficient tires that cater to every season, eliminating the need to switch from winter to summer tires and compromise on fuel efficiency. Well, here’s some good news! This comprehensive list of the best tires for fuel economy includes options for different seasons, allowing you to select tires based on your preferences, comfort, and specific requirements.
Whether you’re driving in snowy winter conditions, rainy spring weather, scorching summer temperatures, or unpredictable autumn landscapes, there are fuel-efficient tire choices available for each season. In this article highlighting the best tires for fuel economy, you’ll find a diverse selection of options to choose from. When making your decision, it’s important to consider various factors such as tread design, traction capabilities, wet and dry handling, and overall tire performance to find the perfect match for your needs.
Top 10 Best Tires For fuel economy
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Best Tires For Fuel Economy: Touring All Season
1. Continental TrueContact Tour
Best Overall
If you are looking for premium touring tires for daily drives and cross-country tours while also saving fuel, this might be a win-win for both the situation and the right choice for you.
The exceptional performance across different seasons, integration of additive technologies, affordability, and impressive mileage efficiency have elevated it to the best overall place in the best tire for fuel economy category. Its durability, added with a quiet ride and above-average snow traction, establishes it as a strong contender within the fuel economy segment.
While testing the Continental TrueContact Tour, covering more than 2500 miles and involving diverse conditions such as mountain roads, wet surfaces, and fluctuating temperatures, I was genuinely impressed by the performance of these tires. On dry roads, the tire exhibited precise control, resulting in a serene and seamless drive. The steering responsiveness was commendable, although it could have been slightly more effortless, but overall the performance was exceptional. While driving through uneven patches, one could occasionally sense slight disruptions accompanied by a subtle noise. However, in general, the tire was quietened and smooth.
The traction was excellent, and the acceleration and braking distances were adequate. Even if you are a spirited driver, you are going to enjoy being behind the wheel as the Continental True Contact Tour grips the road effectively. Whereas on wet tracks, the tire proved to be the best in its category, with more control and traction on the track.
Despite encountering mountainous elevations, the Continental True Contact Tour improved the mileage of the vehicle. Moreover, the road noise was pleasantly minimal, adding to the overall driving experience. Even while driving on snowy, steep hills with freshly covered few inches of snow, I was amazed as the tires maintained an exceptional grip throughout. Although it does not match the winter tire’s capabilities undeniably, this tire can resist a little more than light snow. Moreover, with slopes up to 45 degrees, the tires perform exceptionally well.
Continental has made significant improvements with the Continental TrueContact Tour, focusing on enhancing the tire’s wet performance compared to its predecessors. Notably, they have successfully achieved this objective by incorporating +Silane technology and wide grooves, which contribute to shorter wet braking distances, which sets it apart from its competitors in the category. Furthermore, the tire’s improved cornering abilities are attributed to its enhanced traction and efficient water channeling through the contact patch, helping in heightened resistance to hydroplaning.
Continental TrueContact Tour has been designed with EcoPlus™ Technology that boosts the mileage of the vehicle, whereas the temperature-activated functional polymers adapt to the changing of temperatures while providing high fuel efficiency.
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2. Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max
Best Durable Touring All Season Tire
This is an excellent tire choice for drivers seeking maximum fuel efficiency and tread life. It excels in both areas, allowing you to save on fuel costs and enjoy extended tire longevity. While it may not be the right choice for sports enthusiasts and performance sedan owners, this might not be the right choice.
Its performance, durability, and high fuel efficiency have made it secure this runner-up position. It not only met the commitment it has made of saving up to 2600mi over the lifespan of four tires, but it has also given a good performance.
While testing the tire on the dry track and the freeway, I was amazed by the tire’s responsiveness. I could feel its strong grip and traction without compromising towards achieving low rolling resistance. However, I did notice that the tires were slightly noisy on concrete terrains, causing a faint sound in the cabin. Nevertheless, it might fade away with time, and it is not something that would significantly bother you. The tire’s symmetric tread pattern bound with low rolling resistance provides balanced performance and wear, resulting in a low cost per mile.
Furthermore, in snowy conditions, the Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tire continued to leave a lasting impression on me as it effortlessly tackled torrential downpours on interstates and city roads alike; even driving over an ice storm on a highway felt seamless. But for wild and extreme winter conditions, I would suggest getting dedicated winter tires for that extra traction and safety and to keep the compound of the tire in good condition.
Fortunately, this tire doesn’t compromise its performance when it comes to wet terrains, and its ability to resist hydroplaning is quite impressive. While it may not deliver the highest level of performance in this regard, it still effectively channels the water away, ensuring that you stay safe and avoid slips on wet roads.
While the cornering abilities are adequate for average curves, there is room for improvement in order to exceed expectations and handle more challenging turns with confidence.
The Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max truly lives up to its name by delivering outstanding fuel efficiency and durability, surpassing its predecessors and many competitors in the category. The tire’s symmetric tread pattern bound with low rolling resistance provides balanced performance and wear, resulting in a low cost per mile.
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3. Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter
Best Budget Touring All Season Tire
For budget-conscious individuals who reside in mostly dry, wet areas and prioritise fuel efficiency while driving conservatively and adhering to speed limits, the Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter is a suitable option.
On testing the Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter, I felt the ample comfort and a noiseless drive on dry roads. Although it felt slightly heavy in terms of responsiveness, it excelled on tracks and competed exceptionally well with its rivals.
The Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter stands out with its exceptional tread life and enhanced fuel efficiency, thanks to its innovative fuel fighter technology that effectively reduces rolling resistance. Furthermore, the tire’s optimised footprint and incorporation of four grooves greatly assist in efficiently channeling water, resulting in superior traction on wet surfaces.
I’ve also found a slight uptick in the mileage, which should increase as the tires break in. While testing on the wet track, the Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter showcased impressive performance and provided reliable grip in all areas. I was specifically impressed with its consistent and solid performance. However, when pushed to its limit, the tire experienced some understeer while remaining stable.
On driving through Northern West Virginia to Columbus, I found that on light snow, the tire could not handle the grip of the road properly. With these tires on, you might have to sacrifice a little on the snow traction as they are not up to the mark until now. Moreover, while testing it on the track, the tire had the highest breaking distance compared to its competitors.
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Best Tires For Fuel Economy: Grand Touring All Season
4. Bridgestone Turanza Quiet Track
Best Grand Touring All Season Tire
Bridgestone has yet again come back with something you would not regret. Known for its class, the Bridgestone has launched the turanza quiet track as the premium grand touring tire and claimed it to last over 80k mileage. So does that mean saving on fuel and yet achieving high durability? Well, yes, you heard it right.
If you’re someone who drives over at least 20k miles a year, this might be the right one for you. As for those who drive around 10k or 15k, they would not be able to utilize them to their best as tires usually need to be replaced either by 2/32nds or 6 years.
While driving at 76mph on the local highway in Ohio, the road was kind of bumpy, but I couldn’t hear the tires make noise or vibrate as they were quiet and provided comfortable ride thanks to the rounded contact patch, which helped reduce the vibration and the optimised pitch, sequencing that was successful in reducing the airborne noise while also setting itself apart from majority of its competitors. Even the response was good.
The wet traction that the Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack provides is sufficient for grip and traction for everyday driving. Undoubtedly the wide circumferential grooves and shoulder slots have impressed me with their performance of bypassing water. Although it understeers a bit if pushed to its limits for cruising and daily commuters, it, without a blink of an eye, is one of the best options out there.
It withstands light snow without a doubt, and the traction is not compromised until you drive through the light snow, but it would not be able to take the place of a dedicated winter tire. Once the temperature falls to zero, you would feel to replace them.
If performance is your top priority and mileage is not a concern, I highly recommend opting for the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+. It is an exceptional tire that offers year-round traction and performance while delivering unmatched comfort without compromising on quality.
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5. Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3
Best Budget Grand Touring All Season Tire
The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 is a redesigned tire by Pirelli that excels as a grand touring tire, seamlessly blending comfort, performance, and durability. Elevating their commitment, the esteemed Italian tire maker has not only prioritised these aspects but has also achieved outstanding fuel efficiency, offering a range of features that allow you to fully embrace every moment.
Pirelli is determined to challenge the prevailing stereotypes surrounding grand touring tires. While many of these tires traditionally compromise either performance or efficiency, Pirelli has set out to create a tire that excels in both aspects. Their commitment is evident in their latest offering, which not only delivers exceptional fuel efficiency but also boasts an extended lifespan.
Pirelli has a history of delivering outstanding traction on dry roads, which is why I had a feeling that the tire would not fail to impress me. While driving on the dry road Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3, I discovered that the tires were noiseless even while driving through the rough patches. The steering also responded smoothly. While the tires may not have set the fastest lap times, their performance was undeniably exceptional.
On wet roads, the performance of the Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 tires did not meet my initial expectations, as the grip seemed to be lower compared to dry conditions. However, I was relieved to find that the tire’s overall balance and drivability remained unaffected. While it may not be the ideal choice for track enthusiasts seeking ultimate wet road performance, for everyday driving purposes, the tires still provide a satisfactory and easy-to-handle experience.
The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 proves to be a strong competitor in light snow conditions. It performed exceptionally well in both acceleration and braking tests on snowy surfaces, offering excellent traction. Although it is not as specialised as dedicated snow tires, its tread compound is designed to handle light snow without any issues. Additionally, its performance on icy surfaces is outstanding, putting it ahead of its competitors.
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Best Tires For Fuel Economy: Summer
6. Michelin Primacy 4
Best Summer Touring Tire
If your place sees more of summer or you prefer travelling in summer. These might be your go-to for more fuel efficiency and that extra summer traction that we crave year-round. Innovation is an integral aspect of each upgraded model, well, but what has been upgraded in the Michelin Primacy 4 is that it has made it to the list.
Michelin has improved the Rolling Resistance of the Michelin Primacy 4 to a whopping 11% which is a huge upgrade that greatly appeals to fuel efficiency enthusiasts. This upgrade surpasses its predecessors, more specifically, the Michelin Primacy 3. It is a big step by Michelin towards a more sustainable future on the roads.
One aspect that truly stood out to me about the Michelin Primacy 4 is that it maintains its ride quality over an extended period of time, unlike most tires, and gradually decreases in performance over time. It is a tire designed to endure, providing long-lasting durability without compromising its impressive attributes.
To make the tires fuel efficient, there is a little compromise on the weight by making the tires a little softer, which, believe it or not, has its pros like the tire get away with the bumps without any jerks and it rides smoothly, but the downsides are that the cornering is a little sacrificed.
In order to enhance fuel efficiency, the Michelin Primacy 4 is designed with a slight compromise on weight, achieved by making them slightly softer. Surprisingly, this approach offers some benefits, such as a smoother ride that effectively absorbs bumps without causing jerks. However, there are also downsides to this trade-off, particularly in terms of cornering performance, which can be somewhat compromised.
Wet handling and braking are both improved. Even while pushing the tires to their limits, it displayed phenomenal resistance to aquaplaning. Even if you are an aggressive driver, this tire won’t fail to impress you.
Moreover, on dry terrains, the tire turned out to be reliable. It offers plenty of grip on the road and perfectly balances the vehicle. Breaking on dry track was a bit high compared to its competitors, with 104.8 seconds. Although this slight difference might not be readily noticeable in everyday driving scenarios, it showcases the tire’s impressive capabilities, particularly in demanding track conditions.
Moreover, to understand the tire’s overall strengths and weaknesses, I analysed the tire even on off-roading. While testing it out on the grass traction, its performance was really commendable, although, on gravel, it was a bit low.
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Best Tires For Fuel Economy: Winter
7. Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2
BEST WINTER TIRES
This tire is your perfect replacement for winter. You can be much more confident in the snow and comfortable at the same time while not compromising on mileage.
While driving the Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 on the snowy roads, even while turning at moderate speeds, the tires did not fishtail, and they handled it confidently. Undoubtedly the tire provides excellent fuel economy on ice and snow. The cornering traction and braking are both up to the mark and add up to its excellence. It also manages to be decent on dry pavements and dirt roads.
Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 is designed with Cross Z-Sipes and an independent shoulder that help the tire to face ice and snow terrain with improved traction and stability. Whereas the innovatory FleX-Ice technology allows the tire to maintain flexibility and grip in extremely low temperatures.
The Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 scored to be the best in its category thanks to its special x-ice compound that is formulated to maintain flexibility under the most extremely cold weather condition, including snow, slush, ice, wet making it an improved version from its predecessors. Its low rolling resistance adds the cherry on top, making it apart from most of its competitors.
Well, with all that said, you must be wondering will the tire be as comfortable as a grand touring tire should be. Undoubtedly the Comfort Control technology comes into play and guarantees high driving comfort levels.
The Total Performance technology effectively manages to improve fuel efficiency by combining compounds, tread designs, and internal structure. As a result, drivers experience reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, making the Michelin X-Ice series an environmentally conscious choice that doesn’t compromise performance.
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8. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
Best Budget Winter Tire
On testing the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5, I was honestly amazed by the performance of the tire. It drove smoothly over the cold tarmac. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 felt predictive, and the stability was good. It felt properly balanced, and the steering was in control even when driving through extreme piles of snow.
While off-roading on thick blocks of snow, it did resist properly, although it did spin a little, and I would go for a more rugged tire for off-roading, but overall for day-to-day use, I don’t think this is a bad option.
It is one of the most technological advanced tire that you will find. The Hakkapeliitta R5 comes with 40% more tread block time, and 10% more siping, making it better than its previous winter models.
This tire is built to keep the vehicle, driver and passenger safe. It provides the grip to conquer extreme winters, and the low rolling noise levels make the cabin feel very silent and comfortable.
Even while driving on dry roads at around 58mph, the tire gripped the road moderately. The mileage is efficient when it comes to snow, thanks to its 5.5 percent less rolling resistance, but I can see a bit of drop in the dry roads.
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Best Tires For Fuel Economy: All Season SUV Tires
9. Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II
Best All Season SUV Tires
On testing the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II on a wet track, it proved to be an impressive contender. Its braking distances were short, surpassing its competitors in the braking test.
On the dry track, it not only delivered a quiet ride but also demonstrated excellent handling, making corners easy to navigate with a strong grip. However, when tested on snowy tracks, it showed balanced handling and average traction, with a longer braking distance compared to the cross-contact lx25, which took first place. If you’re not someone who frequents the track, these differences might not be very noticeable.
When it comes to mileage, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II truly excels. In fact, its mileage performance is nothing short of phenomenal, outshining its competitors in this aspect. It achieved the highest mileage among its counterparts, making it a top choice for those seeking impressive fuel efficiency and long-lasting durability. Whether you’re on long road trips or simply commuting on a daily basis, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II will undoubtedly keep you going the extra mile.
Due to its tread pattern design, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II has a tendency to collect a high amount of small stones and debris. This can result in increased road noise and high wear and tear to the tire. But with regular inspection and cleaning, you can achieve long lasting durability.
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Best Truck Tires For Fuel Economy: All Season
10. Continental TerrainContact H/T
Best All-Season Truck Tires
Highway-touring tires have been introduced by various tire manufacturers over the years, each trying to bring about an evolutionary shift through constant modifications. These tire manufacturers, one after another, have strived to enhance the performance and comfort of highway touring tires.
If you’re looking for the best tires for fuel economy on trucks then you search definatey ends here. Continental TerrainContact H/T has been manufactured and designed to not just give the aesthetic look but also live up to the truck demands.
Highway tires are built to withstand the challenges they encounter as they traverse the diverse terrain of the road. The German tire maker has this time introduced its tire with an approach to attract highway truck commuters and long-distance drivers.
You might be wondering what’s so unique in the Continental TerrainContact H/T that it made it to my list. Well, it has a robust look that most truck owners crave. Apart from the aesthetic looks, it also provides that off-road satisfaction without which trucks are incomplete. Moreover, it also provides long tread life and high fuel efficiency.
While driving on the dry roads, the tire felt luxurious and noiseless. The steering response was light and felt like OEM. Even on the rough patches, the tires maintained their nature and prevented the shocks with ease. While on wet tracks, the tire had good balance and grip as it secured the top position in breaking distance against its rivalries.
I was truly impressed by the tire’s performance on snow, as it not only excelled in dry and wet conditions but also proved to be exceptional in snowy terrains. I had expected the tire to lean more towards favouring dry and wet surfaces, but to my surprise, it performed exceptionally well in the snow, giving tough competition to its rivals. The traction it provided in light snow was impressive, effortlessly accompanying the truck without encountering any obstacles.
If you are also looking for tires that can navigate through light snow, the Continental TerrainContact H/T is undoubtedly the ideal choice. Although, the tire’s performance felt slightly compromised when it came to corners, indicating room for improvement in that aspect. Typically, trucks struggle on icy terrains, but even during rigorous testing on ice, the truck exhibited flawless performance without any noticeable flaws.
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Things to consider when choosing fuel efficient tires
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance refers to the force or resistance experienced by a tire as it rotates on a surface. High-rolling resistance tires require more energy to rotate, resulting in increased fuel consumption.
On the other hand, low-rolling resistance tires require less energy to keep rotating, which leads to improved fuel efficiency. By minimising the energy loss due to rolling resistance, these tires can contribute to more economical and environmentally friendly driving.
Rolling resistance percentages can vary among different tires, but fuel-efficient tires typically aim for a rolling resistance of around 5%. Several factors contribute to rolling resistance, with prominent ones being tire design, tread pattern, road surface conditions, and driving style and conditions.
Tread Pattern Design
The design of the tire’s surface, or tread pattern, is essential for many performance factors, like stopping the tire from skidding on wet roads, gripping in snow, and making the tire last longer. This pattern is also a key factor that influences how fuel efficient the tire is.
Most fuel efficient tires do not have very deep lines (grooves) in them as this particular design helps in saving more fuel. The blocks of rubber on the tire should be made and arranged to save energy. Try to find tires made from special materials that don’t get too hot and roll easily to help save fuel.
Quality and Durability
While fuel efficiency is often a top priority, it’s essential not to overlook the aspect of tire durability. Lack of durability may lead to frequent replacements, potentially resulting in greater expenses over time, outweighing the benefits of fuel economy.
The durability of best fuel efficient tires can typically be discerned from its design and the reputation of the brand. A well-constructed tire from a reputable brand often signifies robustness and longevity.
Most significantly, the warranty offered by the brand can also serve as an indicator of the tire’s durability. This assurance from the manufacturer speaks volumes about the confidence they have in their product’s ability.
Noise and Comfort
Spending money on new tires can feel like a constant burden, more so if you’re someone who frequently tackles varied or rough roads. But if these investments don’t lead to comfortable and noise-free rides, it certainly makes you wonder about their worth.
Noise reduction and ride comfort are important aspects that manufacturers take into account when designing tires. While the primary function of a tire is undeniably to offer adequate traction, grip, and responsiveness. But noise suppression and comfort are often the main elements that justify a higher price point.
As such, these characteristics should be prioritised when selecting tires. A serene, smooth ride not only guarantees a return on your investment but also enables your vehicle to deliver the utmost performance it was designed for.
Sidewall Construction
Best tires for gas mileage have sidewalls that are usually made with materials that can withhold the tire in all possible terrains. Lighter materials not only make the tires weigh light but also reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, henceforth increasing fuel efficiency.
Tires that have harder sides don’t change shape much when they roll, so they don’t use a lot of energy. This can help save fuel. But the downside is they might make your ride feel a bit bumpier.
On the other hand, tires that have softer sides can change shape more easily as they roll. This might give you a smoother ride, but they can use more energy, which could end up using more fuel.
Eco Friendly Materials
Eco friendly tires not only result in savings over time due to increased fuel efficiency, but they also contribute to lower carbon emissions, helping to reduce your overall carbon footprint.
Numerous companies have now taken this initiative seriously, evolving their manufacturing processes to incorporate more renewable and recycled materials in their tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
When seeking the best tires for fuel economy, it’s important to consider factors such as traction, safety, grip, durability, and comfort. A tire that excels in all these areas while also being fuel efficient is the ideal choice that will leave you completely satisfied.
Good brands just don’t offer you fuel saving tires or best mpg tires, but they also take care of your comfort, safety, and the durability of the tire. If you’re willing to save up on the mileage, fuel efficient tires are definitely worth it.
Many modern tires are designed using advanced materials and innovative technologies to reduce rolling resistance, which directly improves fuel efficiency. Selecting the right tire pressure and performing regular maintenance can also help enhance both the longevity and performance of your tires.
Whether you are looking for the best car tires for fuel economy or comfortable performance on different road conditions, it’s important to consider various factors such as tread design, tire composition, and rolling resistance.
In this article, I have addressed a common problem faced by both daily commuters and long driving enthusiasts. Not only does this article guide you through the best tires for fuel economy, but it also provides valuable insights into how these tires have been designed to excel in both efficiency and comfort.
