Imagine you’re at a crossroads with your trusty ride, pondering whether the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate tires are the upgrade your vehicle needs to tackle every twist and turn life throws at it. You’re curious, maybe even a bit skeptical, about whether these tires truly live up to the hype, especially with the myriad of options out there.
The Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate performs commendably well, holding its own against the leading competition in the high-performance all-season category. It excels in wet and dry conditions but faces challenges in deep snow and ice, making it a solid choice for drivers in milder climates.
In this article, we’ll tear down the rubber to the road, giving you the lowdown on how the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate stands up to everyday driving demands. From wet pavement performance to its grip on snowy streets, we’ve got the details you need to make an informed decision.
Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.0 of 10
Wet Weather
8.7 of 10
Winter Weather
6.4 of 10
Tread Wear
7.9 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 500
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 45,000 miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.6 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 6.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 6.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.0 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 8.1 of 10
The Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate marks its territory as a high-performance all-season tire, crafted for those who don’t want to compromise on their driving experience, no matter the season. Designed for sedans, sports coupes, and performance vehicles, this tire promises to deliver an exceptional blend of agility, road comfort, and year-long durability. Goodyear’s focus on innovative technology shines through with the Eagle Exhilarate, making it a strong contender in the high-performance all-season category.
When it comes to handling wet and dry roads, this tire steps up to the plate with confidence. It has a wet traction rating of 8.8 and a dry rating of 9.0, showcasing its ability to maintain control and stability, whether the road is parched or drenched. The design features of the tire, like its unique tread pattern, contribute to a firm grip on wet surfaces, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. On dry roads, drivers can expect precise steering and solid cornering, thanks to Goodyear’s attention to tread design and rubber compound.
Winter conditions are where the Eagle Exhilarate faces its challenges, with an overall winter rating of 6.4. It manages light snow with some confidence, but when it comes to deeper snow and ice, the tire’s performance is modest, suggesting a preference for milder winter environments.
Comfort and noise levels are areas for improvement. With a comfort rating of 8.2, the tire provides a reasonably smooth ride, but road noise, rated at 8.1, can be noticeable, especially at high speeds. Treadwear, sitting at a rating of 7.9, indicates that while the tire offers good immediate performance, its longevity may not match the very best in its class.
COMPARISON WITH LEADING COMPETITORS
- Wet Performance: Competes well with other tires in terms of hydroplaning resistance and wet traction, ensuring a reliable drive in the rain.
- Dry Performance: Provides solid stability, traction, and steering response, standing its ground against the competition.
- Winter Performance: Its capability in light snow is acceptable, but it falls short in handling deep snow and ice compared to the leaders.
- Comfort and Noise: Offers a ride that’s on the firmer side with noticeable road noise, making it less cozy than top competitors.
- Treadwear: Shows decent durability, but its longevity and even wear could be better.
PROS
- Reliable wet and dry traction
- Respectable performance in light snow
- Solid corner stability and steering response
CONS
- Winter performance in deep snow and ice could be improved
- Ride comfort and noise levels are not top-of-the-line
- Treadwear lags behind the best in the category
BOTTOMLINE
The Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate is a viable option for drivers seeking a high-performance all-season tire that can adeptly handle both wet and dry conditions.
While it offers a commendable driving experience in milder climates and shines in wet and dry performance, its capabilities in harsh winter conditions, comfort, and noise management are areas where it doesn’t quite reach the pinnacle of its category.
If your driving environment leans towards milder winters and you prioritize handling and stability, the Eagle Exhilarate could be a fitting choice. However, for those facing severe winter weather or desiring the quietest ride, exploring options might be worthwhile.
In essence, it’s a solid, middle-of-the-pack performer that does many things well, even if it doesn’t lead the pack in every category.
Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate Problems
When you’re eyeing the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate for your vehicle, it’s like considering a new gadget: you want to know the highs and the possible lows. Here’s the scoop on some bumps you might encounter with these tires, straight from the driver’s seat.
Noise on the Open Road
Ever been in a car that felt like you were in the middle of a rock concert? Some drivers have noted that the Eagle Exhilarate can be a bit of a chatterbox, especially at highway speeds. It seems the tire’s design, aimed at keeping you glued to the road in wet and dry conditions, might also invite some extra noise into the cabin.
The Comfort Quandary
Riding on Eagle Exhilarates can sometimes feel like you’re aware of every pebble and crack on the road. While they’re built to perform, a few folks have mentioned they trade a bit of that cushy ride comfort for responsiveness. It’s like choosing between a sporty pair of sneakers that let you feel the ground and a pair of plush running shoes that eat up the miles.
Treadwear Tales
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Tread life on the Eagle Exhilarate can be like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get. Some drivers cruise for miles without a worry, while others see the tread bow out sooner than expected. Driving style and maintenance play big roles here, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Winter Woes
If you’re dreaming of a tire that’ll conquer the worst winter throws at you, the Eagle Exhilarate might not be the hero you’re looking for. It handles light snow like a champ, but when the going gets tough, its performance on ice and deep snow doesn’t quite hit the mark. For those living in Snowmageddon territory, it might be wise to look at winter-specific options.
Comparing Notes
Stacked against the heavy hitters in the high-performance all-season category, the Eagle Exhilarate holds its own in many arenas but might not take home the gold in every event. For drivers who weigh road noise and the plushness of their ride heavily, there might be other tires that strike a better balance for daily driving.
Knowing the full story behind the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate helps paint a clearer picture of what it’s like to live with these tires day in and day out. They’ve got a lot going for them, but like any choice, it’s about what fits your ride, your road, and your style.
Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate Alternatives
When it’s time to swap out your tires, and you’re hovering around the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate, it’s like standing at a crossroads. Do you take the path you know, or venture onto new roads? If you’re feeling adventurous, here are three top alternatives to the Eagle Exhilarate, each with their own set of skills to tackle the road ahead.
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
This tire is like the Swiss Army knife in your glove compartment – ready for anything. It excels in both wet and dry conditions, slightly edging out the Eagle Exhilarate with its superior handling and grip. When winter throws a curveball, it’s more than capable of keeping you on track. And for those long drives? It promises a ride that’s as smooth as your favorite jazz track, with noise levels that won’t drown out the sax solo.
- Wet and Dry Performance: Steps up the game with even better traction and stability.
- Winter Capability: Handles light snow with grace, giving you peace of mind.
- Comfort and Noise: Offers a quieter, more comfortable ride, making it a strong contender for those who value serenity on the road.
- Treadwear: Durable and reliable, ensuring you get miles of performance.
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
Imagine a tire that hugs the road like your grandma at Thanksgiving – that’s the ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus. It’s a match for the Eagle Exhilarate in wet and dry conditions, with a little extra magic when the snow starts to fall. It’s the kind of tire that doesn’t flinch at the sight of a snowflake, offering confidence when winter driving gets tricky.
- All-Season Performance: On par with the Eagle, but shines brighter in the snow.
- Ride Comfort: It’s like riding on air, with noise levels that let you hear your own thoughts.
- Durability: Built to last, giving you more bang for your buck in the long run.
Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
If your car is your castle, then the Potenza RE980AS+ is its trusty steed. Ready to charge into battle in any weather, it stands shoulder to shoulder with the Eagle Exhilarate, especially in handling the twists and turns of life’s roads. Where it makes its mark is in the realm of the wet and slippery, offering reassurance when the skies open up.
- Wet and Dry Mastery: Equally adept as the Eagle, with a flair for the dramatic in heavy rain.
- Snow and Ice: While it’s not a winter tire, it doesn’t shy away from a challenge, offering respectable performance in lighter snow conditions.
- Comfort Levels: A knight in shining armor, protecting you from the harshness of the road.
- Tread Life: Stands the test of time, proving its worth mile after mile.
Choosing between the Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate and its worthy adversaries boils down to what you want under the hood – or, more accurately, under the chassis. Whether it’s the Michelin’s all-around excellence, Continental’s snow savvy, or Bridgestone’s rain readiness, there’s a tire out there ready to meet your demands. So, take your pick, hit the road, and enjoy where it takes you.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate is like that reliable friend who’s always ready to hang out, rain or shine, but might think twice about a snowball fight. Its prowess on wet and dry roads is commendable, providing confidence behind the wheel when you’re cruising on a rainy day or taking a sharp corner under the sun. However, when winter rolls around with its snow and ice, the Exhilarate might not be the tire that leads the pack, hinting at a preference for climates where heavy winters are a rare guest rather than a regular visitor.
Treadwear and noise are other areas where the Eagle Exhilarate seeks middle ground. It doesn’t wear a cape in the longevity department, but it doesn’t fall short too soon either. The ride comfort and noise level, while not whisper-quiet, strike a balance between feeling the road and enjoying a peaceful drive.
Ultimately, if you’re in the market for a tire that offers a robust performance in wet and dry conditions with decent handling in light snow, the Eagle Exhilarate is worth considering. It may not claim the throne in the realm of high-performance all-season tires, but it certainly earns its place at the round table. For those facing mild winters and seeking a tire that keeps up with diverse driving conditions, it could be a match.
Good luck and happy motoring.
