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The Vredestein Ultrac Pro grand touring summer tire earns a solid 78/100 in our rigorous track tests on a 2019 Audi A4. Excelling in dry and wet braking with just 107 ft and 135 ft stops from 60 mph, it's a strong choice for performance-oriented drivers seeking superior grip and control. Dive into detailed scores, pros, cons, and real-world advice.
Quick Pick
The Vredestein Ultrac Pro stands out as our top recommendation for grand touring summer tires, delivering exceptional dry and wet handling. Explore the best tires of 2024 for more options.
If you're in the market for a grand touring summer tire that prioritizes performance without sacrificing everyday usability, the Vredestein Ultrac Pro deserves a close look. In our comprehensive track evaluation using a 2019 Audi A4, this tire achieved an overall score of 78 out of 100. It shines brightest in critical areas like braking and handling, making it ideal for spirited drivers who demand precision on both dry pavement and slick roads.
We put the Ultrac Pro through a battery of standardized tests, measuring everything from stopping distances to noise levels and projected tread life. Whether you're navigating twisty backroads or commuting in variable summer conditions, this tire offers a compelling blend of sporty dynamics and practical efficiency. Let's break down the data and see how it stacks up.
To give you a quick snapshot, here's how the Vredestein Ultrac Pro performed across major categories compared to typical benchmarks for premium summer tires (based on our aggregated test data):
| Category | Vredestein Ultrac Pro | Typical Premium Summer Tire | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking (60-0 mph) | 107 ft (8 stops) | 112-120 ft | Very Good |
| Wet Braking (60-0 mph) | 135 ft (8 stops) | 140-150 ft | Very Good |
| Dry Handling (laps) | 59 | 55-60 | Very Good |
| Wet Handling (laps) | 62 | 58-65 | Very Good |
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 5.3 mph | 6-8 mph | Fair |
| Ride Comfort | 4.1/5 | 4.0-4.5 | Fair |
| Noise Level | 7.3/10 | 7.0-8.0 | Good |
| Rolling Resistance | 1.4 | 1.3-1.6 | Very Good |
| Projected Treadwear | 45,000 miles | 40,000-50,000 miles | Good |
| Overall Score | 78/100 | 70-80/100 | Strong |
This table highlights the Ultrac Pro's edge in braking and handling, where it consistently outperforms averages, while areas like hydroplaning and comfort are more middle-of-the-pack.
Braking is non-negotiable for safety, and the Vredestein Ultrac Pro delivers. From 60 mph, it required just 107 feet for dry stops—equivalent to 8 consistent repeats—earning a 'Very Good' rating. That's about 5-10 feet shorter than many competitors in the grand touring segment, giving you confidence in emergency maneuvers.
Wet performance is equally impressive at 135 feet, again with 8 repeatable stops. The tire's silica-enhanced compound grips wet asphalt effectively, resisting fade even after repeated trials. For context, this translates to real-world stopping power that's crucial during summer showers.
On our dry handling course, the Ultrac Pro clocked 59 laps, showcasing responsive steering and minimal sidewall flex. Wet handling was even stronger at 62 laps, proving its asymmetric tread pattern excels in maintaining cornering stability when traction is compromised.
Drivers will appreciate the predictable feedback, making it suitable for everything from canyon carving to highway merging.
Hydroplaning resistance scored 'Fair' at 5.3 mph threshold speed. While adequate for light rain, deeper standing water could challenge it more than ultra-high-performance alternatives. We recommend cautious speeds in heavy downpours.
Ride comfort rated 4.1 out of 5, feeling a bit firm over rough patches—typical for a performance-focused summer tire. It's not plush like touring options but prioritizes control.
Noise levels at 7.3 out of 10 mean a quiet cabin, with minimal road hum even at highway speeds. Rolling resistance of 1.4 keeps fuel economy respectable, potentially saving 2-3% over stickier track tires.
Treadwear projection of 45,000 miles under mixed driving conditions offers good value, assuming proper rotation every 5,000-7,000 miles and inflation to 32-35 PSI.
This tire is perfect for performance summer enthusiasts driving sedans, coupes, or light sports cars like the Audi A4. It's ideal if you prioritize grip and stopping power over ultimate wet-weather aquaplaning or pillow-soft comfort. Skip it if you frequently encounter flooded roads or prefer all-season versatility.
Pro Tip: Pair with aligned suspension and regular alignments for maximum lifespan. Maintain 32 PSI front / 30 PSI rear for optimal balance.
For broader options, check our best grand touring all-season tires 2024 if summer-only isn't feasible.
To get the most from your Ultrac Pro:
These habits can extend life beyond 45,000 miles.
No, it's a dedicated summer tire optimized for warm weather above 45°F. Switch to all-seasons for colder months to avoid cracking.
It trades some extreme dry grip for better wet braking and longevity, scoring 78/100 overall—strong for grand touring but not track-day focused.
Around 45,000 miles with proper care, outperforming many pure performance tires.
Yes, at 7.3/10, it's quieter than sportier options, ideal for long drives.
Best for sedans/coupes up to 3,500 lbs; check load ratings for your vehicle.
It's fair at 5.3 mph—drive conservatively in heavy rain.
Word count: 1,512 | Last updated: 2024
