Discover ten of the best rain tires for 2025 according to the EU Label
Ten of the best 205/55R16 tires for rain: In this 2025 comparison, we have: Continental UltraContact, Michelin Primacy 5, Continental EcoContact 6, Kumho Ecsta HS52, Bridgestone Turanza T005, Continental PremiumContact 7, GT Radial FE2, among others.
Introduction
If you are looking for new tires in the 205/55R16 size and prioritize safety in rainy conditions, or if you live in a rainy area, this analysis will be useful to you.
We have compared several models in the 205/55R16 91V size, which meet the wet grip class A requirements, so you can make an informed decision.
This comparison is based on the values of the European Tire Label, effective since 2021, and to facilitate the search, we have selected tires with a market introduction date from 2019 onwards.
Comparison table of ten of the best rain tires in 205/55R16 91V for 2025
| Rank | Brand | Model | Size | LI / SI | Extra Load | Energy Efficiency | Wet Grip | Noise | Noise Value (dB) | Type Usage | Launch Year |
| 1 | Continental | UltraContact | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | B | A | B | 69 | Summer | 2022 |
| 2 | Michelin | Primacy 5 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | B | A | B | 70 | Summer | 2025 |
| 3 | Continental | EcoContact 6 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | A | A | B | 71 | Summer | 2022 |
| 4 | Kumho | Ecsta HS52 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | C | A | B | 71 | Summer | 2022 |
| 5 | Bridgestone | Turanza T005 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | A | A | B | 71 | Summer | 2019 |
| 6 | Continental | PremiumContact 6 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | C | A | B | 71 | Summer | 2019 |
| 7 | GT Radial | FE2 | 205/55R16 | 91V | — | C | A | B | 69 | Summer | 2021 |
| 8 | Continental | PremiumContact 7 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | C | A | B | 71 | Summer | 2022 |
| 9 | Maxxis | Premitra HP6 | 205/55R16 | 91V | SL | C | A | B | 70 | Summer | 2025 |
| 10 | Michelin | e.Primacy | 205/55R16 | 91V | — | A | B | B | 69 | Summer | 2021 |
Detailed comparison and analysis of the best rain tires in 205/55R16 91V according to the European Label
Characteristics of the 205/55R16 91V tire: Speed rating up to 240 km/h and load capacity of up to 615 kg/wheel
- Wet Grip: All tires in this comparison offer class A wet grip, meaning they provide excellent braking and handling on wet roads; however, the Michelin e.Primacy tire with class B wet grip has been included in this ranking due to its excellent fuel efficiency (A) and low noise level (69 dB).
- Energy Efficiency: The Continental EcoContact 6, the Michelin e.Primacy, or the Bridgestone Turanza T005 stand out with an energy class A, indicating lower fuel consumption compared to the others. On the opposite end are the Maxxis Premitra HP6 or the Kumho Ecsta HS52 with class C.
- Noise Level: The Continental UltraContact, the Michelin e.Primacy, and the GT Radial FE2 are the quietest on the list, with a noise level of 69 dB. The rest, except for the Maxxis Premitra HP6 (70 dB), reach 71 dB, which could be a factor to consider if you prioritize acoustic comfort.
- Extra Load: All tires indicate that they are standard load or SL, although Michelin tires do not explicitly state this.
- Season: All tires in the 205/55R16 comparison are for summer use.
- Design Age: The Bridgestone Turanza T005 and Continental PremiumContact 6 have older designs (production start year 2019) compared to newer models like the Michelin Primacy 5 (2025) or the Continental EcoContact 6 (2022). This does not necessarily mean they are inferior, but newer models often incorporate more advanced technologies.
The best brands and models of rain tires:
- Top brand: Continental has a wide range of tires that meet the class A rating criteria, ranging from the UltraContact to the PremiumContact 7. This offers various options within a single renowned brand.
- Other premium brands: Michelin also makes the list, as expected, with two tires: the Primacy 5 and the e.Primacy, both very well-balanced tires. Bridgestone is also present in the comparison, ranking 5th with the Turanza T005, a tire with some years but very balanced. This tire from the Japanese manufacturer was replaced by the Turanza 6.
- Mid-range tire brands in the ranking: Three brands with a very acceptable price-quality ratio made it into the final ranking of the ten best rain tires. The models are: Kumho Ecsta HS52, GT Radial FE2, and the Maxxis Premitra HP6.
Which cars are these tires for?
The 205/55R16 size with a load index of 91 (615 kg/wheel) and speed index V (240 km/h) is one of the most commonly used sizes for different types of cars. Below are some car models that typically use this size:
| Brands | Models |
| Volkswagen | Golf |
| Audi | A3 |
| Seat | León |
| Skoda | Octavia |
| Ford | Focus |
| BMW | 1 Series |
| Mercedes-Benz | A-Class |
Some conclusions:
Choosing the right tire depends on your priorities and driving style, as we have mentioned before.
If you are looking for the best energy efficiency, the Continental EcoContact 6 or the Bridgestone Turanza T005 are good options. If you prioritize silence and comfort on trips, the Continental UltraContact or the GT Radial FE2 might be the most suitable. Also consider the design age and the brand’s reputation when making your final decision for your next tire change. All offer excellent wet grip, so they will safely handle the rainy season.
We hope this information is helpful!