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Choosing tyres2 min read

Budget or premium tyres: which should you choose?

Is an expensive tyre really better? We compare budget, mid-range and premium tyres on safety, lifespan and price.

For the same tyre size, prices can vary a lot. Is a more expensive tyre worth the money? It depends on how and how much you drive.

Premium tyres

The well-known top brands invest heavily in research. Their tyres usually score best on:

  • braking distance on a wet road,
  • stability at high speed,
  • lifespan.

Ideal for: high-mileage drivers, frequent motorway use, or heavy or powerful cars.

Mid-range

Often sub-brands of the big manufacturers, using the previous generation of premium technology.

Ideal for: most drivers. A good balance between price and performance.

Budget tyres

Cheaper to buy, but often with a longer wet braking distance and a shorter life.

Ideal for: low-mileage drivers, mostly in town, with a light car.

Look beyond the price

  • A tyre that lasts longer can be cheaper in the long run.
  • Check the EU tyre label, especially wet grip.
  • Look at independent tyre tests by motoring clubs.

What we never do

An axle always gets two identical tyres. So never combine a premium and a budget tyre on one axle.

Tell us how you drive and we'll suggest three options in different price ranges.