Overview
The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 is a premium all-season touring tyre designed for drivers who put a high value on quietness, comfort, and dependable year-round performance. Targeted at midsize sedans, family cars, and crossovers, this tyre aims to deliver a composed and refined ride while handling the diverse weather conditions found across the US. Pirelli’s focus with the P7 AS Plus 3 is to blend strong dry and wet road abilities with best-in-class noise reduction, making it particularly appealing for commuters and anyone sensitive to road noise.
Key Specs
| Type | All-Season Touring |
|---|---|
| Available sizes range | 16″ – 20″ diameters; 195/65R15 to 245/45R20 (US focus: 215/55R17, 225/60R17) |
| Speed rating examples | H, V, W |
| Load index examples | 94V (1477 lbs), 99V (1709 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Asymmetric, optimized for quietness and water evacuation |
| Technology highlights | Pirelli Noise Canceling System, advanced silica compound, 3D sipes, optimized pitch sequencing |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the P7 AS Plus 3 delivers a stable, predictable experience. The tyre’s advanced tread design provides responsive steering and confident straight-line tracking, which is especially evident during highway cruising and quick lane changes. Braking performance is strong for its segment, with progressive pedal feel and short stopping distances in independent tests. While it doesn’t match the outright grip of a summer performance tyre, it offers more than enough traction for brisk everyday driving. Turn-in is precise for a touring tyre, and grip during cornering inspires confidence without feeling overly stiff or sporty.
Performance: Wet
Wet road performance is a standout strength for the P7 AS Plus 3. Wide circumferential grooves and high-dispersion silica in the compound efficiently channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning even during heavy downpours. The tyre remains composed during sudden maneuvers and maintains strong lateral grip in the wet. Braking distances remain competitive, and feedback through the steering wheel is reassuringly consistent. For most drivers, the wet-weather confidence will be a highlight compared to older-generation all-season tyres, especially in the most popular mid-size sedan and crossover fitments.
Performance: Snow & Ice
As an all-season tyre, the P7 AS Plus 3 is designed to handle light to moderate winter conditions but is not a replacement for dedicated snow tyres. In light snow, the tyre’s 3D sipes and flexible tread compound provide enough bite to get you moving and maintain safe control. Traction in slushy or lightly icy conditions is serviceable, with the tyre remaining manageable during gentle braking and steering inputs. However, in deep snow or on hard-packed ice, performance is limited, and caution is advised. For drivers in regions with frequent or severe winter weather, switching to a true winter tyre for the coldest months is still recommended.
Comfort & Noise
Comfort and low noise are where the P7 AS Plus 3 truly excels. Pirelli’s Noise Canceling System and optimized pitch sequencing work together to minimize pattern and road noise, resulting in a hushed cabin even at highway speeds. On various road surfaces, including rough asphalt, the tyre suppresses harshness and vibration, contributing to a plush, refined ride. Comfort over bumps is well controlled, with the sidewall providing enough flex to absorb impacts without feeling mushy or vague. For drivers who prioritize a quiet ride—whether for long commutes, family trips, or simply to enjoy a more relaxing drive—this tyre is among the quietest in its class.
Durability & Economy
Pirelli rates the P7 AS Plus 3 with a 70,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, reflecting its focus on longevity. The tyre’s tread compound is engineered for slow, even wear, and owners routinely report strong mileage potential in real-world use. Rolling resistance is moderate for the segment, supporting good fuel economy for both gasoline-powered and hybrid vehicles. The UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) is typically 800 A A for common sizes, indicating high treadwear and top marks for traction and temperature resistance. While not the absolute lowest rolling resistance tyre, the P7 AS Plus 3 strikes a practical balance between efficiency, grip, and comfort.
Sizes & Alternatives
The P7 AS Plus 3 is widely available in sizes suitable for sedans, wagons, and crossovers—most notably in 215/55R17 and 225/60R17, both popular choices for midsize cars and SUVs like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Subaru Outback, and Ford Escape. Other available sizes extend up to 20-inch fitments for some crossovers and luxury vehicles.
Key alternatives to consider in the same segment include:
- Michelin Primacy Tour A/S
- Continental PureContact LS
- Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
- Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive
- Yokohama AVID Ascend GT
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptionally quiet ride, even at highway speeds
- Comfortable and compliant over bumps
- Strong wet weather grip and hydroplaning resistance
- Long tread life and high UTQG rating
- Reliable dry handling for everyday driving
Cons
- Limited performance in deep snow or ice (not a winter tyre)
- Not as sporty or responsive as ultra-high performance tyres
- Rolling resistance could be lower for maximum fuel economy
- Premium pricing compared to budget all-seasons
Verdict
The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 stands out as a top-tier choice for drivers seeking a quiet, comfortable, and dependable all-season touring tyre. Its refinement and noise suppression make it a favorite for those who log serious miles or simply want a less fatiguing, more enjoyable drive. Wet and dry road performance is fully up to the demands of modern sedans and crossovers, while tread life and warranty support long-term value. The main caveat is its modest performance in deep snow or icy conditions—drivers in northern states with harsh winters will want to consider a dedicated winter option for cold months. Otherwise, for most US drivers, the P7 AS Plus 3 offers a compelling mix of comfort, quietness, and all-season versatility.
We get occasional snow in our area. How well does this tyre handle light winter conditions, or would you recommend a dedicated winter tyre?
The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 offers good grip and control in light snow and cold conditions, thanks to its all-season tread. However, if you regularly encounter heavier snowfall or icy roads, a dedicated winter tyre will provide noticeably better traction and safety during those conditions.
How does the P7 AS Plus 3 compare to the Michelin CrossClimate 2 in terms of noise level and comfort on Midwest highways?
The P7 AS Plus 3 is notably quiet and smooth on Midwest highways, making it a top pick for noise-sensitive drivers. Compared to the Michelin CrossClimate 2, the P7 AS Plus 3 generally produces less road noise and feels more cushioned over bumps, while the CrossClimate 2 tends to be slightly firmer and a bit noisier on rough pavement.
If my current tires are 215/55R17 but I sometimes carry heavy loads for family trips, would the 99V load rating option be better, or is it overkill for daily use?
Choosing the 99V load rating gives you a higher load capacity, which is helpful when carrying heavy loads, especially on family trips. For everyday driving, it’s not overkill and won’t negatively affect performance. It can actually offer extra peace of mind if you occasionally load your vehicle more heavily.
For someone living in an area with frequent rain, how does the wet grip of the P7 AS Plus 3 hold up over time as the tread wears down?
The P7 AS Plus 3 performs well in wet conditions when new, thanks to its advanced tread compounds and design. As the tread wears over time, wet grip can gradually decrease like with most all-season tyres, but this model is engineered to maintain good traction throughout much of its lifespan. Regularly checking tread depth and rotating your tyres will help ensure consistent wet-weather performance.