Overview
The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is an ultra-high performance all-season (UHP A/S) tire designed for drivers who want dynamic handling and responsive grip in both dry and wet conditions, while maintaining confidence through light winter weather. Targeted at sports sedans, coupes, and performance-oriented daily drivers, the RE980AS+ sits at the intersection of summer tire agility and all-season practicality. It’s a compelling choice for enthusiasts who demand year-round capability without switching to dedicated winter or summer sets, and for those who prioritize sharp steering, strong braking, and a balanced ride in changing US climates.
Key Specs
| Type | Ultra-High Performance All-Season |
|---|---|
| Available sizes range | 16″–20″ diameters, widths from 205mm to 285mm |
| Speed rating examples | W (168 mph), Y (186 mph) |
| Load index examples | 91 (1356 lbs), 98 (1653 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Asymmetric with large outboard shoulder blocks, full-depth sipes |
| Technology highlights | 3D full-depth sipes, high-silica compound, optimized contact patch, improved snow traction compared to predecessor |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the Potenza RE980AS+ delivers a driving experience that closely rivals dedicated summer tires. The tire’s stiff sidewalls and wide, continuous outboard shoulder blocks provide direct steering response and impressive lateral grip, allowing for confident cornering and rapid lane changes. Braking distances are short for an all-season, thanks to the high-silica tread compound and large tread blocks that maximize road contact. Enthusiasts will appreciate the tire’s responsive turn-in and overall precision, making it well-suited for spirited daily driving or occasional backroad runs. While not as razor-sharp as top-tier summer UHP tires, the RE980AS+ stands out for its balance between everyday comfort and engaging dynamics.
Performance: Wet
Wet traction is a highlight of the Potenza RE980AS+. The full-depth 3D sipes and circumferential grooves quickly evacuate water, minimizing hydroplaning risk even in heavy rain. The tire inspires confidence in the wet, with stable braking and predictable handling. Compared to many rivals, the RE980AS+ maintains its composure during aggressive maneuvers on damp roads, offering good traction during acceleration and cornering. Feedback through the steering remains direct, letting drivers modulate grip at the limit. While extreme standing water at highway speed can challenge any UHP all-season, this Bridgestone performs near the top of its class for wet safety and control.
Performance: Snow & Ice
For an ultra-high performance all-season tire, the RE980AS+ offers usable snow and ice capability, but expectations should be realistic. The high-density sipes and full-depth biting edges improve traction in light snow, and the compound remains flexible in near-freezing conditions. On plowed or lightly covered roads, starting, stopping, and cornering are manageable, making it a viable option for regions with occasional winter weather. However, as with most UHP all-seasons, deep snow and icy surfaces reveal its limits—traction decreases, and stopping distances grow compared to dedicated winter tires. For regular severe winter conditions, a true snow tire remains the safer choice.
Comfort & Noise
The Potenza RE980AS+ balances sporty intent with commendable ride comfort. Its sidewall design and optimized tread pattern help absorb smaller bumps and road imperfections, resulting in a firm yet compliant ride—firm enough to deliver feedback, but not punishing on rougher pavement. Road noise is well-controlled for the segment, with a subtle hum at highway speed that is less intrusive than some competitors. On coarse surfaces, a bit more tread noise is noticeable, but overall, the tire remains quiet enough for daily commutes and long drives, striking a fair compromise between performance and refinement.
Durability & Economy
Bridgestone rates the RE980AS+ with a UTQG of 500 AA A, indicating strong treadwear for its class. Many users report 30,000–40,000 miles of life in mixed driving, though aggressive driving can reduce longevity. The high-silica compound aids in even wear and helps preserve wet traction as the tire ages. Rolling resistance is moderate—higher than eco-focused or touring all-seasons, but competitive within the UHP category. Fuel efficiency is reasonable for a performance tire, typically resulting in minimal penalty compared to OE all-seasons. The treadwear warranty of 50,000 miles (for standard fitments) adds peace of mind for drivers seeking long-term value.
Sizes & Alternatives
Popular sizes:
- 225/45R17 (common for sporty sedans, e.g., BMW 3 Series, Honda Accord Sport)
- 245/40R18 (fitment for larger sedans/coupes, e.g., Audi A4, Ford Mustang)
- Other sizes from 205/50R16 up to 285/35R20 for a range of vehicles
Key competitors:
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
- Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
- Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate
- Yokohama ADVAN Sport A/S+
- Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus
Each of these rivals brings unique strengths; the RE980AS+ stands out for its dry handling and balanced all-season performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent dry and wet grip for an all-season
- Sharp, responsive steering and handling
- Usable light snow traction for the class
- Good treadwear warranty and UTQG rating
- Wide range of sizes for many sporty vehicles
Cons
- Not as quiet or smooth as pure touring tires
- Performance drops in deep snow or ice
- Can feel firm over rough roads
- Rolling resistance slightly higher than standard all-seasons
- Premium pricing compared to some alternatives
Verdict
The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ proves itself as a top-tier ultra-high performance all-season tire for US drivers who crave year-round capability without sacrificing driving engagement. Its blend of sharp handling, strong wet performance, and credible light snow traction makes it especially appealing for sports sedan and coupe owners who face varied weather but want to avoid seasonal tire changes. While it can’t match the comfort of touring tires or the snow grip of true winters, the RE980AS+ shines for drivers who value balance and confidence in every season. If spirited driving is part of your daily routine and you need a tire that won’t let you down when the weather shifts, this Bridgestone deserves a spot on your short list—just be mindful of its firmer ride and premium cost.
If I rotate these tires every 5,000 miles like recommended, what kind of tread life should I realistically expect given the aggressive tread pattern?
With regular 5,000-mile rotations, you can typically expect around 40,000 to 50,000 miles of tread life from the Potenza RE980AS+. The aggressive tread pattern might reduce longevity slightly if you drive very hard, but proper rotation helps maximize lifespan.
For my small delivery fleet, I’m wondering if the load index of 91 to 98 is sufficient for cars that are sometimes fully loaded—should I look for a higher load rating or will these be reliable?
The load index of 91 to 98 covers a range from about 1,356 to 1,653 pounds per tire. To be sure these tires are suitable, check your vehicles’ gross axle weight rating (GAWR) or the recommended tire load index in your owner’s manual. If your cars frequently carry heavy loads, you may want to consider a higher load index for added safety and durability.
Since the RE980AS+ is designed with stiff sidewalls for responsive handling, have you noticed any trade-offs in ride comfort or increased road noise during daily commutes?
Yes, the stiffer sidewalls on the RE980AS+ do make the ride feel a bit firmer compared to standard touring tires, especially over rough pavement or potholes. Some drivers also report a slight uptick in road noise, though it’s not excessive. Overall, most users find the enhanced handling worth these minor trade-offs for daily driving.
For a daily driver in the Midwest, do you think the improved snow traction versus the previous generation is enough, or is a dedicated winter tire still recommended?
While the Potenza RE980AS+ offers noticeable improvements in light snow traction compared to the previous generation, Midwest winters can still bring substantial snow and ice. If you often face heavy snow or icy roads, a dedicated winter tire is strongly recommended for optimal safety and control. The RE980AS+ is great for occasional light snow, but winter tires will always outperform in severe conditions.
How do the snow traction improvements in the RE980AS+ compare to its predecessor when driving in light winter conditions, especially for a car like a performance sedan?
The RE980AS+ offers noticeably better snow traction than its predecessor, especially in light winter conditions. For a performance sedan, you’ll experience improved grip and stability during light snow or slush, making winter drives safer and more predictable. While it’s still not a substitute for dedicated winter tires, the updates mean you’ll feel more confident handling occasional snowy days.
For someone who values tire longevity on a daily-driven sports sedan, how does the RE980AS+ tread life hold up compared to other options in its class?
The RE980AS+ is known for above-average tread life among ultra-high performance all-season tires. While it may not last quite as long as some less performance-oriented competitors, it generally outperforms many direct rivals in its class when it comes to longevity, especially with regular rotations and proper maintenance.