When it comes to choosing mid-range summer tyres in the UK, two prominent contenders often surface in expert and consumer reviews: the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and the Hankook Ventus Prime 4. Both tyres are positioned in the mid-range premium category, offering an attractive balance between cost, performance, safety, and comfort.
This in-depth comparison explores various parameters including dry and wet grip, rolling resistance, noise levels, durability, and overall value to help UK drivers make an informed decision.
1. Overview of the Tyres
Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2
The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 is the successor to the original EfficientGrip Performance, and it brings significant improvements, especially in terms of mileage and wear resistance. Goodyear claims up to 50% more mileage than its predecessor, aiming to deliver long-lasting summer performance without compromising on safety or handling.
Hankook Ventus Prime 4
The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 is the latest in Hankook’s Ventus Prime series, designed for high performance in summer conditions. Building on the strengths of the Ventus Prime 3, the Prime 4 offers enhanced grip and improved stability, particularly under wet conditions. It aims to combine comfort with performance, targeting the growing mid-range summer tyre market in the UK.
2. Performance in Dry Conditions
When evaluating mid-range summer tyres in the UK, dry performance is one of the most critical factors.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: This tyre is widely praised for its responsive handling on dry roads. It delivers consistent traction even at higher speeds, with a well-balanced steering response. The tread pattern and compound are optimized for stability during acceleration and cornering.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: The Hankook Prime 4 also performs admirably in dry conditions, offering a firm grip and predictable braking. The tyre’s structure features a high-grip silica compound, which contributes to reduced stopping distances. However, in some comparative tests, it slightly lags behind Goodyear in high-speed cornering precision.
Verdict: The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 has a marginal advantage in dry road dynamics, especially for enthusiastic drivers who value feedback and control.
3. Performance in Wet Conditions
Wet weather is a common driving condition in the UK, making wet performance a key criterion for summer tyres.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: The tyre maintains impressive control in wet conditions thanks to Goodyear’s “Wet Braking Technology.” It features wide circumferential grooves that disperse water effectively, minimizing hydroplaning risk.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: Hankook has made significant strides in wet grip, and the Prime 4 shows excellent braking performance on wet roads. The tyre includes multi-tread radius technology and aqua hydro block design, which work to maintain contact with the road during rain or surface water conditions.
Verdict: Both tyres are strong performers, but the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 may have a slight edge in terms of aquaplaning resistance and short braking distances in wet conditions.
4. Comfort and Noise
Comfort and road noise are essential for UK drivers, especially those who spend a significant amount of time commuting or driving long distances.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: The tyre offers excellent comfort levels with low noise emissions. It utilizes Goodyear’s QuietTred Technology, which reduces pattern noise and ensures a smoother ride even on coarse UK tarmac.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: Hankook has also improved comfort with this model, but the Prime 4 is known to generate slightly more cabin noise at motorway speeds. That said, vibration dampening and ride smoothness remain very good.
Verdict: The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 scores slightly higher in terms of overall driving refinement.
5. Fuel Efficiency and Rolling Resistance
Fuel economy is another important factor, especially for eco-conscious UK drivers.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: This tyre is engineered for low rolling resistance, which translates into better fuel efficiency. The tread compound minimizes energy loss while maintaining grip, contributing to Goodyear’s reputation for eco-performance.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: While not as efficient as Goodyear in fuel economy tests, the Prime 4 still delivers respectable performance. It uses an optimized polymer blend to reduce rolling resistance but slightly lags behind the EfficientGrip in energy-saving capabilities.
Verdict: The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 is a better choice for drivers focused on minimizing fuel consumption.
6. Longevity and Mileage
Durability is crucial, particularly for drivers seeking long-term value from their mid-range summer tyres in the UK.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: One of the tyre’s standout features is its exceptional lifespan. Independent tests and user reviews confirm Goodyear’s claim of 50% more mileage compared to competitors in the same segment. This makes it a leading choice for cost-conscious motorists.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: The Prime 4 offers improved wear characteristics over the Prime 3, but it doesn’t quite match Goodyear’s benchmark mileage. Nevertheless, it still offers competitive tread life for the price point.
Verdict: In terms of durability and long-term value, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 takes the lead.
7. Value for Money
- Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: Though priced slightly higher than Hankook, Goodyear’s tyre offers superior performance, especially in longevity and fuel economy. This makes it a cost-effective choice over time.
- Hankook Ventus Prime 4: The Hankook offers excellent value for drivers who prioritize wet performance and a lower upfront price. It’s a smart choice for moderate UK driving conditions with shorter annual mileage.
Verdict: For drivers looking for all-round performance and durability, Goodyear is a better long-term investment, while Hankook suits those wanting strong wet performance at a lower initial cost.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Both the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and Hankook Ventus Prime 4 are outstanding options in the mid-range summer tyre category. Your choice will depend on your driving style and priorities:
- Choose Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 if you value:
- Long tread life
- Fuel efficiency
- Superior comfort and low noise
- Balanced dry and wet performance
- Choose Hankook Ventus Prime 4 if you want:
- Excellent wet grip
- Strong braking performance
- A slightly lower purchase price
- Reliable mid-range performance in UK weather
Where to Buy or Book Tyre Fitting in the UK
If you’ve decided on either of these tyres, here are a few recommended places where you can buy or book summer tyres in the UK:
- Blackcircles.com – A trusted online tyre retailer with UK-wide fitting partners.
- Tyre Shopper – Competitive prices on mid-range tyres and nationwide fitting.
Always ensure you check the tyre size and specifications that match your vehicle’s requirements before purchasing.