Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. They keep you safe and help your car run smoothly. But not all tires are created equal. A recent study by Consumer Reports highlights just how different tire brands can be when it comes to owner satisfaction.
The study covered several tire types: all-season, all-terrain, winter/snow, and summer. Unfortunately for Sumitomo, it came in last overall. It finished at the bottom for all-terrain and summer tires. Plus, it ranked second-to-last for all-season and winter/snow tires.
Sumitomo tires often fell short in important areas that matter to drivers. Key issues included poor handling, lack of grip on wet roads, and shorter lifespan. Their models—like the HTR A/S P03 (all-season) and HTR Z5 (summer)—received some of the lowest satisfaction ratings.
It’s worth noting that Sumitomo isn’t alone in the losing category. Dunlop, another brand under Sumitomo Rubber Industries, also got low marks across all four tire categories. This acquisition by Sumitomo in 2025 for $701 million included both brands, leading to concerns about overall quality for their consumers.
GT Radial matched Sumitomo in disappointing ratings. Other brands that struggled include Uniroyal and Ironman, which appeared near the bottom in multiple categories, especially in all-season and all-terrain tires.
But it’s not all bleak news for tire buyers. Michelin and Vredestein topped the all-season category, and Michelin also led in all-terrain tires. Brands like Bridgestone and Nokian were on top for winter/snow and summer tires as well. In fact, a report from Tire Rack indicated that high-quality tires can improve fuel efficiency and provide better handling, making them a wise investment.
In today’s world, where vehicle performance and safety are paramount, the tire you choose can make all the difference. Consumers are becoming more vocal, sharing opinions on social media about their tire experiences. Online forums are buzzing with discussions about tire brands, and many drivers are now prioritizing reliability and performance over price alone.
So, if you’re in the market for new tires, do your research. Check out ratings and driver feedback to ensure you’re making a smart choice for your vehicle and your safety.
