Overview
The Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus is a premium run-flat, all-season touring tire engineered for drivers who value safety, comfort, and year-round performance. Tailored for mainstream sedans, coupes, and crossovers, this tire is especially well-suited for owners who want the peace of mind of run-flat technology without sacrificing ride quality or longevity.
Designed for daily driving in a broad range of US climates, the DriveGuard Plus aims to blend reliable dry and wet road grip, confident light snow traction, and a quiet, refined ride. Its run-flat capability enables drivers to continue traveling up to 50 miles at up to 50 mph after a puncture—appealing to anyone who wants to avoid roadside tire changes or doesn’t have a spare.
Key Specs
| Type | All-season touring run-flat |
| Available sizes range | 16–19 inches (common: 205/55R16, 225/50R17) |
| Speed rating examples | H, V, W |
| Load index examples | 91 (1356 lbs), 94 (1477 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Asymmetric with full-depth 3D sipes and circumferential grooves |
| Technology highlights | Run-flat reinforced sidewalls, silica-rich all-season compound, optimized tread for comfort and wet grip |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the DriveGuard Plus delivers stable, predictable handling. Steering response is direct and linear, with good on-center feel—traits appreciated on highways and winding roads alike. Compared to older run-flat designs, the Plus generation features a more compliant sidewall, reducing the stiff, brittle sensation often associated with run-flats. Braking distances are respectably short for the segment, and lateral grip inspires confidence in everyday driving. While ultimate cornering performance won’t match dedicated summer or ultra-high performance tires, the DriveGuard Plus stands out for its balance between safety and comfort.
Performance: Wet
Wet road capability is a standout strength of the DriveGuard Plus. The silica-enriched tread compound, wide circumferential grooves, and high density of 3D sipes work together to evacuate water and maintain grip in rain. Hydroplaning resistance is very good, with the tread design efficiently channeling standing water away from the contact patch. Braking in the wet feels secure and progressive, and traction during acceleration and cornering remains reassuring even in heavy rain. For drivers in regions where wet weather is frequent, this tire is a reliable choice.
Performance: Snow & Ice
As an all-season tire, the DriveGuard Plus is designed for light snow and occasional winter weather. The full-depth sipes and all-season compound provide reasonable traction on cold, slushy roads and shallow snow. Starting and stopping on snow is competent for the category, and lateral stability is acceptable for a touring all-season. However, like most all-seasons, this tire is not a substitute for a dedicated winter tire in areas with frequent or heavy snow and ice. In icy conditions or deeper snow, performance will diminish, and drivers should consider a true winter tire if winter extremes are common.
Comfort & Noise
One of the traditional trade-offs of run-flat tires has been a firmer, noisier ride. With the DriveGuard Plus, Bridgestone has made significant improvements. The ride is noticeably more compliant than previous DriveGuard generations and most competing run-flats, soaking up bumps and road imperfections with poise. Noise levels are impressively subdued, with minimal pattern or road roar at highway speeds. The tread design and advanced compound contribute to a refined driving experience, and feedback from owners consistently highlights the tire’s quietness and ride comfort as major positives—an important consideration for those upgrading from OEM run-flats.
Durability & Economy
Longevity and value are crucial for touring tires. The DriveGuard Plus boasts a competitive treadwear warranty (up to 65,000 miles, depending on size), and its wear characteristics align with expectations for a premium all-season touring model. Even treadwear is aided by the robust construction, and the UTQG rating (often 640 A A, check specific size) reflects solid durability and heat resistance for US buyers. Rolling resistance is moderate for a run-flat—higher than standard tires but improved over older run-flat models—which means fuel economy doesn’t suffer excessively. As with most run-flats, slightly faster wear at the shoulders can occur if tire pressures are neglected, so regular checks are advised.
Sizes & Alternatives
The Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus is available in a wide range of sizes, targeting popular fitments for sedans, wagons, and crossovers. Two of the most common sizes in the US are:
- 205/55R16 (common for Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, VW Jetta, Mazda3)
- 225/50R17 (fits Toyota Camry, BMW 3 Series, Nissan Altima, Lexus ES)
Other available sizes span 16-inch to 19-inch wheel diameters, covering many OEM run-flat replacement needs.
Key Competitors
- Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP (Zero Pressure)
- Continental ContiProContact SSR
- Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat
- Goodyear Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat
- Hankook Kinergy PT (not run-flat, but often cross-shopped for comfort)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Run-flat capability for added safety and peace of mind
- Excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Much improved ride comfort and low noise vs. older run-flats
- Competitive treadwear warranty and good durability
- Wide range of sizes for popular US vehicles
Cons
- Higher price than non-run-flat touring tires
- Still firmer than top conventional (non-run-flat) models
- Winter performance not adequate for severe snow/ice
- Somewhat higher rolling resistance vs. standard all-seasons
- Potential for faster shoulder wear if not monitored
Verdict
The Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus stands out as a leading choice for drivers seeking run-flat assurance without giving up comfort or all-season versatility. It brings tangible improvements in ride quality, noise reduction, and wet weather grip, making it a strong option for family sedans, premium compacts, and crossovers that originally came with run-flats—or for those looking to upgrade from first-generation run-flat designs. While the price premium and modest winter capability are considerations, the DriveGuard Plus delivers everyday usability, peace of mind, and a balanced driving experience. For US drivers who value safety, convenience, and a refined ride, it’s one of the best run-flat touring all-seasons currently available.
I run a small delivery service and I’m curious about how the DriveGuard Plus performs when it comes to ride comfort for city drivers, especially compared to older run-flat tires you mentioned.
The DriveGuard Plus noticeably improves ride comfort over older run-flat designs. It uses a more flexible sidewall and advanced rubber compounds, so city driving feels smoother and less harsh, even over potholes or rough roads. Many drivers report less vibration and a ride that’s closer to standard tires, making stop-and-go city routes much more comfortable for you and your team.
I’m interested in the 205/55R16 version for my sedan. Is there any impact on fuel economy versus regular all-season tires due to the reinforced sidewalls?
The reinforced sidewalls in run-flat tires like the DriveGuard Plus can slightly increase rolling resistance compared to standard all-season tires. This might result in a small decrease in fuel economy, but for most drivers, the difference is minimal—typically less than 1-2 miles per gallon.
I noticed the article mentions confident light snow traction. Would you recommend the DriveGuard Plus for year-round use in a region like upstate New York, or would a dedicated winter tire still be safer?
The DriveGuard Plus performs well in light snow, making it suitable for occasional winter conditions. However, for upstate New York, where winters often bring heavy snow and ice, a dedicated winter tire would offer better safety and traction during the coldest months. If you drive regularly in severe winter weather, switching to winter tires is still the safer option.