If you drive an SUV and want a sportier tire that will keep you snugly on the road, the Continental ContiSportContact 5 SSR SUV tires are a great option to consider. While priced right in line with what you would expect for an SUV tire, they are a higher performance option.
Quick Facts
- Type: Sport Summer Tire
- Sizes: 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
- Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG): 240AAA
- Speed Rating: H, W
- Warranty: 1 Year Uniformity Warranty + 6 Year Workmanship Warranty
- Price: $$$
What Sets It Apart
Most sports tires are made specifically for cars rather than larger SUVs, which makes sense. Many people who prefer driving the larger vehicles, however, also want the improved performance that comes with a sports inspired tire. A good sport tire even makes sense with an SUV since they have a higher roll risk when taking turns fast than a sportscar, which has the lower center of gravity. The added traction and control offered by the Continental ContiSportContact 5 SSR SUV tire is definitely the biggest thing that sets these apart from the crowd.
The other important thing that sets these tires apart is the SSR technology that is used. This is the run flat technology from Continental, which means if you run over a nail or other object and puncture the tire, you can keep driving until you reach somewhere to get it fixed.
Comfort and Performance
The balance between comfort and performance on these tires definitely leans heavily in the performance direction. While for many people this is going to be a good thing, others might complain about the added road noise that is generated. The tires are not extremely loud, but for those who are used to a good quality touring tire, it will be a noticeable difference.
In addition to providing great control around corners, these tires will really handle higher speeds quite well. You can get these tires with either a H or a W speed rating, which means they are able to withstand speeds of 130mph or 168mph, respectively. Of course, you are not going to want to push those limits unless you happen to have access to a racetrack. Knowing that speed will not be a concern for all normal driving, however, is something many will appreciate.
Safety and Durability
These tires will provide you with a very safe overall driving experience. They maintain great traction on both wet and dry pavement and will keep you firmly in control even with aggressive driving. For more day-to-day driving, you will also have no trouble getting where you are going.
Another great safety feature of these tires is that they use the Continental ride flat technology, which allows you to drive on them for up to 50 miles after a puncture. This will help keep you off the side of the road and allow you to get the tires fixed or replaced without needing a tow.
As with most sports tires, and especially summer sports tires, you should not expect them to last as long as a good touring model. You do not get any type of mileage warranty either, which is pretty common for sports tires since people generally drive on them more aggressively. The tread life and overall life of the tire is going to be pretty much average compared to other similar options.
Who Its For
These tires will be great for anyone who likes to have fun while driving, but doesn’t want to give up the convenience and comfort of an SUV or other large vehicle. You will really feel the difference when accelerating, taking turns, or driving at highway speeds (or faster!), even if you are comparing them to a higher quality touring model.
Of course, you should only get these tires if you either live in an area that gets no snow, or you are willing to swap them out for an all-season option before winter hits. These tires will not perform well at all in the snow or ice. As long as you understand these limitations, however, you will be happy with the great performance and reasonable price for these Continental ContiSportContact 5 SSR SUV tires.
