Overview
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is a summer ultra-high performance (UHP) tyre designed for drivers who demand precise handling, confident wet grip, and a comfortable ride. Suited for sporty sedans, coupes, and performance-oriented crossovers, the Asymmetric 6 targets both enthusiastic drivers and everyday commuters who want to elevate their car’s road manners in warm-weather conditions. Goodyear’s latest evolution in the Asymmetric series brings new compound technology and tread refinements aimed at maximizing grip and steering feel, while maintaining ride comfort and efficiency.
Key Specs
| Type | Summer Ultra-High Performance (UHP) |
| Available sizes range | 17″–21″ rim diameters, section widths 205–315 mm |
| Speed rating examples | W (168 mph), Y (186 mph) |
| Load index examples | 91–101 (1356–1819 lbs per tyre) |
| Tread pattern | Asymmetric, multi-rib with circumferential grooves |
| Technology highlights | Dry Contact Plus compound, adaptive tread, ActiveBraking, optimized pitch sequencing |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 impresses with its direct steering response and high cornering grip. The latest Dry Contact Plus compound ensures the contact patch remains stable even under hard acceleration or abrupt direction changes. In spirited driving, the tyre communicates confidently, providing clear feedback and progressive breakaway characteristics. Braking distances are among the shortest in its class, giving drivers peace of mind in emergency situations. For everyday commuting, the ride remains composed and stable—even at highway speeds. Compared to rivals like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 and Continental ExtremeContact Sport, the Goodyear holds its own, especially in lateral grip and steering precision.
Performance: Wet
Goodyear’s ActiveBraking and advanced silica compound deliver excellent wet-weather performance. The Asymmetric 6 resists hydroplaning impressively, thanks to its wide circumferential grooves and lateral sipes that quickly evacuate water. Wet braking is sharp, with the tyre maintaining stability even during hard stops on slick surfaces. Cornering grip in the rain remains above average for the segment, and steering response is only minimally muted compared to dry conditions. While the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 might edge ahead in outright wet grip, the Goodyear is notably consistent, making it a strong performer for drivers who encounter frequent summer storms.
Performance: Snow & Ice
N/A – As a dedicated summer tyre, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is not designed for snow, slush, or icy conditions. Use of this tyre in cold weather below 45°F (7°C), or on wintry roads, is not recommended due to reduced traction and increased wear. Drivers seeking year-round performance should consider a dedicated all-season or all-weather alternative.
Comfort & Noise
Despite its sporty intent, the Asymmetric 6 is tuned for comfort as well as performance. Goodyear’s optimized pitch sequencing and tread block arrangement help minimize road noise, resulting in a quieter cabin than many rivals in the UHP summer category. Over rough pavement and expansion joints, the tyre absorbs minor imperfections well, delivering a composed and refined ride. Some road texture does transmit through at higher speeds, a common trait in this segment, but overall comfort is a highlight. For drivers seeking a blend of dynamism and daily usability, this tyre strikes an excellent balance.
Durability & Economy
Summer UHP tyres are not known for maximum tread life, but the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 holds up well under normal driving. Goodyear’s compound resists irregular wear, and the robust construction maintains performance over time. In the US, the UTQG rating varies by size but typically falls around 300 AA A—typical for its class, indicating a focus on grip over longevity. Rolling resistance is modest for a UHP tyre, supporting decent fuel economy for the segment, though not matching eco-focused touring tyres. Compared to previous generations, this model offers incremental improvements in both tread life and fuel efficiency, but drivers covering high annual mileage may see faster wear than with grand touring options.
Sizes & Alternatives
The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is available in a wide range of sizes to fit most modern sporty sedans, coupes, and crossovers. Popular fitments in the US include:
- 225/45R17 (VW Golf GTI, Audi A3, BMW 3 Series)
- 245/40R18 (BMW 4 Series, Tesla Model 3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class)
- Other sizes: 235/40R18, 255/35R19, 275/30R20, etc.
Main competitors in the summer UHP segment include:
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4
- Continental ExtremeContact Sport
- Pirelli P Zero PZ4
- Bridgestone Potenza Sport
- Falken Azenis FK510
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding dry grip and handling precision
- Confident wet braking and aquaplaning resistance
- Refined ride comfort for a UHP tyre
- Low noise levels on most surfaces
- Wide size range for modern sport vehicles
Cons
- Not suitable for snow or ice
- Tread life lower than touring or all-season tyres
- Premium price point
- Some road feel transmitted over rough surfaces
- Rolling resistance higher than eco-oriented tyres
Verdict
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 stands out as a top-tier summer UHP tyre for drivers prioritizing sharp handling, strong wet and dry grip, and a refined daily driving experience. It’s especially well-suited to those with sporty sedans and coupes who value both weekend enjoyment and weekday comfort. While its tread life and winter usability can’t match all-season or touring alternatives, the Asymmetric 6 delivers the performance edge that enthusiasts demand. For drivers seeking an all-rounder strictly for the warmer months, and who are willing to pay a slight premium for advanced technology and balanced performance, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is one of the most compelling choices in 2025. Those needing winter traction should look to a dedicated all-season or switch to winter tyres seasonally.
How does the wet grip of this tyre hold up after several thousand miles of use, given the new compound and tread technology?
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 maintains strong wet grip even after several thousand miles, thanks to its advanced compound and innovative tread design. Testers noted that while there is a slight drop in wet performance as the tread wears, the tyre still offers secure handling and braking in wet conditions compared to many competitors.
Does the Asymmetric 6’s Dry Contact Plus compound impact tire longevity, or should I expect similar wear rates to previous Asymmetric models?
The Dry Contact Plus compound in the Asymmetric 6 is designed to improve grip and handling, especially in dry conditions. While performance compounds can sometimes reduce tread life, Goodyear has engineered this version to offer wear rates similar to previous Asymmetric models. You should expect comparable longevity, assuming similar driving habits and conditions.
Are these tires suitable for driving through surprise heavy summer thunderstorms, or should I consider a different tire with even more focus on wet traction?
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 has been praised for its wet grip and handling, making it a solid choice for summer storms. However, if you frequently drive in extremely heavy rain or prioritize maximum wet traction above all else, you might want to look at tires specifically designed for enhanced wet performance.
Are there any significant differences in performance or road noise between the 225/45R17 and 245/40R18 sizes of this tire?
Both the 225/45R17 and 245/40R18 sizes of the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 deliver strong performance, but the 245/40R18 typically offers slightly better grip and handling due to its wider profile. However, the 245/40R18 may produce a bit more road noise and feel firmer over bumps compared to the 225/45R17, which tends to be a bit quieter and more comfortable.
For someone who drives a performance sedan but occasionally hits track days, would you recommend these over the Michelin Pilot Sport 4?
If you drive a performance sedan and enjoy occasional track days, both the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 are strong choices. The Goodyears excel in dry and wet road grip, with a comfortable ride and low noise. However, the Pilot Sport 4 tends to have a slight edge in track durability and steering feel. For spirited road driving with the odd track day, either would work, but the Michelin may offer a little more confidence under repeated hard use.
Considering the relatively high load index ratings, would these tires suit a heavier electric sedan, or are they primarily optimized for lighter sporty cars?
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 tires in the sizes tested do have higher load index ratings, making them a potential fit for heavier electric sedans. However, they are primarily engineered for sporty driving dynamics. If your electric sedan requires these sizes and load ratings, they can work, but always double-check your vehicle’s specific requirements for optimal safety and performance.
Does the Dry Contact Plus compound in the Asymmetric 6 affect tread life or maintenance needs compared to other UHP tyres?
The Dry Contact Plus compound in the Asymmetric 6 is designed to boost dry grip and handling, but it doesn’t cause unusual tread wear compared to other ultra-high-performance tyres. You can expect tread life and maintenance needs to be on par with similar UHP tyres, as long as you maintain proper alignment, pressure, and rotation intervals.
I run a small fleet of delivery cars and was wondering how the tread life of the Asymmetric 6 compares to previous versions, especially with the new Dry Contact Plus compound mentioned.
The Asymmetric 6 features the new Dry Contact Plus compound, which has been designed to improve both performance and tread wear. Compared to earlier versions like the Asymmetric 5, users and tests generally report slightly improved tread life, especially with regular rotation and correct pressures. For a delivery fleet, this could mean longer intervals between replacements while maintaining strong grip and safety.
The load index ranges mentioned go up to 101—would these be suitable for a performance-oriented crossover that sometimes tows a small trailer, or should I look for something with a higher rating?
A load index of 101 supports up to 825 kg per tyre, which covers many crossovers, even with occasional towing. However, if your crossover and trailer approach or exceed this combined weight per tyre, it’s safer to choose a higher load index. Check your vehicle’s manual for the recommended load rating to ensure you’re within the safe range.
For someone mostly commuting but occasionally hitting the track, would you suggest going with the 225/45R17 or stepping up to the 245/40R18 for all-around performance?
If commuting is your main use, sticking with the 225/45R17 is likely the better choice—it offers a smoother ride, lower cost, and more comfort for daily driving. The 245/40R18 provides slightly more grip and handling for track days, but it can be harsher and pricier. Unless track performance is a high priority, the 225/45R17 is more practical all around.
With the speed ratings being W and Y, would using these on regular American roads be overkill, or is there a safety or durability benefit?
Using tyres with W or Y speed ratings on regular American roads isn’t overkill, and can even offer benefits. These ratings simply indicate the tyre’s maximum safe speed capability, but they also reflect strong construction, better heat resistance, and enhanced high-speed stability. This often translates into added durability and safety margins in everyday driving, such as during sudden braking or emergency manoeuvres.