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The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S all-season tire shines in dry and wet braking on a Mazda CX-5, earning a solid 74 overall score. But how does it stack up in snow, ice, and longevity? Get detailed test data, pros/cons, and buying advice to decide if it's right for your drive.
Quick Pick
Falken Ziex CT60 A/S (235/60R18)
Top choice for grand touring all-season performance with excellent dry/wet braking and comfort. Ideal for highway commuters. See our Best Automotive picks
The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S is a versatile grand touring all-season tire designed for everyday drivers who prioritize a smooth ride, solid handling, and year-round usability. We evaluated it in the popular 235/60R18 size fitted to a Mazda CX-5, a midsize SUV known for its balanced handling and family-friendly appeal. Achieving an overall score of 74 out of 100, this tire delivers where it counts most for most drivers—dry and wet roads—while falling short in harsher winter conditions.
Grand touring tires like the Ziex CT60 A/S emphasize long-distance comfort, low noise, and predictable grip across varied conditions. Whether you're cruising highways or navigating city streets, this tire aims to provide confidence without sacrificing efficiency. In our deep dive, we'll break down the test metrics, compare it against benchmarks, highlight pros and cons, and guide you on whether it's the right fit for your vehicle.
Independent testing revealed standout results in braking and aquaplaning resistance, making it a reliable option for rain-soaked commutes. Here's a detailed look at the numbers from the Mazda CX-5 evaluation:
| Metric | Falken Ziex CT60 A/S | Expected Benchmark | Difference | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking | 102 feet | 113 feet | 11 feet better | Excellent |
| Wet Braking | 142 feet | 152 feet | 10 feet better | Very Good |
| Hydroplaning | 6.0 | 6.1 | 0.1 below | Good |
| Snow Traction | 3.5 | 3.9 | 0.4 below | Fair |
| Ice Braking | 2.0 | 2.3 | 0.3 below | Poor |
| Ride Comfort | 4/5 | N/A | - | Good |
| Noise | 4/5 | N/A | - | Good |
| Rolling Resistance | 3/5 | N/A | - | Average |
| Treadwear | 2/5 (40,000 miles projected) | N/A | - | Below Average |
Dry and wet braking lead the pack. Stopping 11 feet shorter than expected on dry pavement and 10 feet on wet surfaces, the Ziex CT60 A/S demonstrates responsive siping and a silica-enhanced compound that bites into road surfaces effectively. Hydroplaning resistance is nearly on par with expectations, thanks to its wide circumferential grooves that channel water away efficiently.
Winter performance lags, with snow traction and ice braking noticeably weaker. This positions it as a mild-weather specialist rather than a true all-weather warrior. Ride comfort and noise levels score well at 4/5, delivering a plush, quiet experience ideal for long trips. However, rolling resistance at 3/5 suggests slightly higher fuel consumption, and the projected 40,000-mile tread life (rated 2/5) means more frequent replacements.
This tire excels for drivers in temperate regions who log high highway miles. Mazda CX-5 owners, minivan drivers, or anyone seeking a do-it-all tire for 80% dry/wet/commute use will appreciate its balance. It's less suited for off-road adventures, heavy towing, or severe winters—consider dedicated snow tires for those scenarios.
Real-world scenario: On a 500-mile road trip in mixed rain, you'd benefit from the short braking distances and quiet cabin. Pair it with regular maintenance: rotate every 6,000 miles, maintain 35 PSI (check your CX-5 door sticker), and monitor tread depth.
For optimal upkeep, grab a reliable AstroAI Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor. Its digital gauge and 9.8-foot cord make roadside checks effortless—perfect for keeping your Ziex CT60 A/S at peak performance. Check current price.
Falken offers a diverse lineup for different needs. The Ziex CT60 A/S focuses on touring comfort, while summer-oriented models push grip further.
Read our Falken Aklimate Tire Review for better snow performance, or the Falken Azenis FK460 A/S for budget UHP summer fun. The Falken Azenis FK510 dominates dry tracks but skips all-season versatility.
View all Best Automotive of 2026 for expert-tested options.
Shop for the 235/60R18 size to match Mazda CX-5 specs (confirm via tire sidewall or manual). Expect to pay $150-200 per tire, with a 50,000-mile warranty (actual life may vary). Install in sets of four for balanced handling.
Pro tip: Use a torque wrench at 80-90 ft-lbs during install. Track wear with the built-in tread indicators—replace at 2/32-inch depth.
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No, its snow traction scores 3.5 (below the 3.9 benchmark), making it suitable only for light flurries. Switch to winter tires for heavy snow.
Projected at 40,000 miles with proper care, but real-world results depend on driving style—aggressive acceleration shortens it.
Excellent, stopping 10 feet shorter than expected (142 ft vs. 152 ft), thanks to effective water evacuation grooves.
Average, with a 3/5 rolling resistance rating. You might see a slight MPG dip compared to low-resistance touring tires.
Yes, available in many sizes for sedans, crossovers, and SUVs—check compatibility via tire size calculator.
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