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The Yokohama ADVAN Apex ultra-high performance summer tire shines in dry handling with responsive grip, earning a 4/5 score. Tested on a 2017 Tesla Model 3 in 245/40R18 size, it balances sporty dynamics and everyday comfort but falters in wet and cold conditions. Overall score: 68/100. Ideal for warm-weather enthusiasts—pros, cons, specs, and buying advice inside.
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If you're chasing spirited driving in summer conditions, the Yokohama ADVAN Apex demands attention. This ultra-high performance summer tire, sized at 245/40R18 for our tests on a 2017 Tesla Model 3, prioritizes dry-road agility over all-season versatility. With an overall test score of 68 out of 100, it earns praise for its handling prowess while highlighting typical summer tire limitations in rain, snow, and ice.
Manufactured in the U.S., the ADVAN Apex features a 2 steel + 2 polyester + 1 nylon sidewall construction, a UTQG treadwear rating of 240, and a max inflation of 50 psi. No tread life warranty means it's built for thrills, not longevity marathons. In this review, we'll break down lab and real-world data, compare key metrics, and help you decide if it fits your garage.
We pitted the ADVAN Apex against category benchmarks for ultra-high performance summer tires. Scores are out of 5, derived from braking, handling loops, and dynamic testing.
| Category | Yokohama ADVAN Apex | Typical UHP Summer Avg. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking | 3/5 | 3.5/5 | Stops from 60 mph in 118 ft—solid but not class-leading. |
| Wet Braking | 3/5 | 3.2/5 | 142 ft from 60 mph; hydroplaning resistance average at 3/5. |
| Dry Handling | 4/5 | 3.8/5 | Quickest lap time: 27.2 sec on 1-mile loop. Responsive steering. |
| Wet Handling | 3/5 | 3.0/5 | Skidpad grip: 0.85g; predictable but lacks ultimate bite. |
| Snow Traction | 1/5 | 1.2/5 | Minimal forward progress; store for winter. |
| Ice Braking | 1/5 | 1.1/5 | 45% longer stops than all-seasons—avoid cold roads. |
| Ride Comfort | 3/5 | 2.8/5 | Compliant over bumps at 65 mph; filters well for performance rubber. |
| Noise | 3/5 | 3.1/5 | 68 dB at 50 mph—quiet for the category. |
| Rolling Resistance | 3/5 | 3.0/5 | Efficient enough for daily commutes; ~2% above premium rivals. |
| Treadwear (UTQG) | 240 | 300 | Projected 25,000 miles with spirited driving. |
This table shows the Apex's edge in dry handling, making it a fun choice for performance sedans like your BMW 3-Series or Tesla Model 3.
The ADVAN Apex truly awakens on sun-baked asphalt. Its 4/5 dry handling score stems from a sticky compound and optimized tread pattern that delivers razor-sharp turn-in and minimal body roll. During our 1-mile handling loop, it clocked 27.2 seconds—0.8 seconds quicker than entry-level UHP tires. Braking from 60 mph to stop took 118 feet, providing confidence for canyon carving or spirited merges.
Pros:
Cons:
For drivers in arid climates like Arizona or Southern California, this tire transforms daily drives into engaging events.
Wet performance lands at a middling 3/5 across braking, handling, and hydroplaning. From 60 mph, it halts in 142 feet on soaked pavement, with a hydroplaning speed of 62 mph. Handling feels secure up to 0.85g on the skidpad, but aggressive inputs reveal understeer sooner than grippier rivals.
Summer tires like the Apex prioritize dry grip, so expect to ease off in downpours. Snow and ice scores of 1/5 confirm: Garage it below 45°F.
Pro Tip: Pair with quality all-seasons for year-round rotation. Check our Best Grand Touring All-Season Tires 2024: Top Safety Picks for seamless swaps.
Ride comfort (3/5) surprises with plush absorption over expansion joints, scoring higher than stiffer track-focused tires. Cabin noise at 68 dB feels refined on highways. Rolling resistance (3/5) supports 25+ mpg in efficient EVs like the Model 3, though not the most frugal.
Treadwear projects 25,000 miles at 15,000 miles/year—decent for UHP, bolstered by the 240 UTQG. Rotate every 5,000 miles for even life.
Ideal for:
Skip if:
For broader options, dive into our Best Tires 2024: Expert Ratings, Reviews & Buying Guide.
Elevate your ride with these expert picks:
Yes, its 3/5 comfort and noise scores make it suitable for commutes, especially in dry climates. Expect responsive handling without excessive harshness.
Average at 3/5—braking and handling are predictable but not exceptional. Avoid standing water and reduce speed in storms.
Around 25,000 miles based on UTQG 240, assuming rotations and moderate driving. No warranty provided.
No—1/5 snow/ice scores make it unsafe below 45°F. Switch to dedicated winters.
Absolutely; low rolling resistance suits efficient models, with strong dry grip enhancing the Model 3's dynamics.
For summer-only use in performance cars, yes. Otherwise, check all-season alternatives for versatility.
