Promobil Summer Tyre Test 2026 (225/75 R16 C): Vredestein Comtrac 2+ Dominates for Motorhomes, Firestone and Barum Struggle on Wet Roads

Promobil tested 7 summer tyres in size 225/75 R16 C on a loaded Fiat Ducato Maxi simulating real motorhome weight distribution. The test weighted three categories: Wet (50%), Dry (40%), and Environment (10%). Any tyre scoring below 6 points in a safety-critical discipline receives a full point deduction in its overall rating.

The Vredestein Comtrac 2+ (★90) is the clear test winner with an outstanding 9.3/10, dominating in both wet and dry grip. The new Nokian Cargoproof C (★73) takes second place at 8.8/10 with near-identical wet braking to the winner. At the bottom, Firestone Vanhawk 3 and Barum Vanis 3 both earn only “conditionally recommended” ratings due to consistently weak wet performance.

Top 3 comparison

Full rankings

The dominant test winner excels in every safety-critical discipline. Shortest wet braking distance (27.0 m from 80 km/h) and shortest dry braking (41.1 m from 100 km/h, just 0.1 m behind Nokian). Outstanding cornering grip on both wet and dry surfaces with the highest handling scores across the board. Only drawback: high rolling resistance (7.3 kg/t) and above-average pass-by noise (72.0 dB). For motorhome owners who prioritize safety — which should be everyone — this is the tyre to buy.

The brand-new Nokian finds the perfect balance between performance and economy. Best dry braking in the test (41.0 m) and near-best wet braking (27.4 m). Above-average cornering ability on wet surfaces with a 9/10 handling score. Features Aramid Sidewall reinforcement for extra puncture protection — particularly valuable for motorhome use. Slightly reduced reserves at extreme steering angles and comparatively loud pass-by noise (71.7 dB) are the only areas to critique.

Continental delivers a compelling all-rounder that excels in efficiency and safety margins rather than outright grip. Outstanding rolling resistance (5.4 kg/t, tied best with Michelin) and quiet pass-by noise (70.9 dB). Excellent lane-change stability and steering response earn 9/10. The trade-off: slightly longer braking distances on both wet (30.6 m) and dry (44.0 m) surfaces. Better suited for vans and lighter campervans than heavy alcove motorhomes.

The Michelin scores a perfect 10.0/10 in the environment category — best rolling resistance (5.4 kg/t), quietest pass-by noise (70.7 dB), and best longitudinal aquaplaning protection (95.1 km/h float speed, far ahead of the field). Good ride comfort too. However, braking distances are mediocre on both wet (30.4 m) and dry (43.0 m). A tyre that prioritizes longevity and fuel economy over outright grip — better suited for commercial fleet use than motorhome safety demands.

The Goodyear impresses with sporty steering response (perfect 10/10) and safe understeer behavior on wet roads. Decent dry braking (42.5 m) and good fuel efficiency. However, aquaplaning protection is below average, and the tyre can feel somewhat nervous during fast lane changes with a narrow limit range. The pass-by noise level of 72.0 dB is the highest in the test together with Vredestein.

The budget-friendly Barum (155 EUR) offers good-natured handling and decent dry cornering reserves, plus excellent ride comfort (9/10). Unfortunately, it has the weakest braking performance on both wet (31.4 m) and dry (44.2 m) surfaces — the longest stopping distances in the test. Poor aquaplaning protection with a 6/10 score in both longitudinal and cross tests. A tyre that sacrifices safety for price.

The Firestone finishes last despite respectable dry braking (42.2 m, 3rd best) and very quiet pass-by noise (70.8 dB, second only to Michelin). The problem: consistently weak wet performance across all disciplines — braking, handling, cornering, and aquaplaning. Imprecise, indifferent steering feel compounds the issue. Very high rolling resistance (7.1 kg/t) and an audible humming in corners round out the negatives. Not recommended for motorhome use where wet safety is paramount.

Key takeaways for motorhome owners

Promobil emphasizes that braking performance should be the top priority for motorhome tyres. The difference between best and worst wet braking is over 4 meters from just 80 km/h — equivalent to hitting an obstacle at 30 km/h when the best tyres have already stopped. Rolling resistance differences, while measurable, are largely irrelevant for motorhomes where aerodynamic drag dominates fuel consumption above 70 km/h.

Owners of lighter Ducato models still running 215/70 R15 tyres should consider upgrading to the larger 225/75 R16 size. This provides 1,450 kg load capacity per tyre (vs 1,030 kg for the 15-inch size) — a significant safety margin especially with heavy rear loads. Aftermarket 16-inch alloy wheels like the Dezent KH can be fitted to both Light and Maxi Ducato variants without re-registration.