Looking for a dependable all-season tire that balances comfort, longevity, and value? The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S might be just what you need. But how does it stack up against other standard touring options, and what should you consider before buying?
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S impresses with sharp dry road grip, and a smooth and quiet cabin experience, backed by a 7/10 overall rating. Yet, reduced cold-weather confidence and less confident rain performance may give some drivers pause.
Here, we break down everything you need to know about the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S. Along the way, we compare it to the high-end Michelin Defender2, the moderately priced Yokohama AVID Ascend LX, and the budget-conscious Firestone FR710. We’ll also highlight potential drawbacks and provide the key stats to guide your decision.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | Budget |
| Michelin Defender2 | Premium |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | Mid-Priced |
| Firestone FR710 | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | 7.7 | 7.6 |
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Firestone FR710 | 6.8 | 6.8 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | 8.1 | 8.6 | 8.2 |
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.4 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
| Firestone FR710 | 7.5 | 8.1 | 7.7 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | 6.9 | 6.0 | 5.8 |
| Michelin Defender2 | 8.7 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.2 | 7.6 | 7.1 |
| Firestone FR710 | 6.2 | 5.2 | 4.6 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | 8.3 | 8.0 |
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.3 | 9.0 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.9 | 8.6 |
| Firestone FR710 | 7.5 | 6.9 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Yokohama AVID TOURING-S | 7.8 |
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.4 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.7 |
| Firestone FR710 | 7.0 |
Detailed Review
Yokohama AVID TOURING-S
Customer Ratings
Overall Rating
7.0 of 10
Wet Weather
7.7 of 10
Winter Weather
6.2 of 10
Dry Weather
8.3 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.2 of 10
Tread Wear
7.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 520-620
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B-A
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 65,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 7.7 of 10
Wet Grip: 7.6 of 10
Cornering: 8.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 6.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 6.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 5.8 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 8.0 of 10
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is designed for drivers seeking reliable standard touring all-season performance. It offers a balanced combination of comfort, traction, and longevity for everyday driving conditions.
Dry Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S performs well on dry pavement with predictable handling and good traction. Steering response is confident, and the tire maintains composure through corners. Most drivers will find the dry performance more than adequate for daily driving. Within the category, this level of dry traction and handling is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Wet Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Wet performance is adequate but not a standout strength of this tire. While it handles light rain reasonably well, extra caution is advised in heavy downpours or standing water situations. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger wet traction and hydroplaning resistance than most of the competition.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S provides a comfortable ride for most drivers. However, some users have noticed that the tire produces a slightly higher level of road noise, especially on paved surfaces. While the ride remains smooth, this extra noise might be noticeable on longer highway trips. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger ride comfort and noise control than most of the competition.
Winter/Snow Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Winter performance is limited with this tire. While it can handle light dustings, it struggles in deeper snow and icy conditions. Drivers in areas with regular winter weather should consider dedicated snow tires or a more winter-capable all-season option. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger winter and snow traction than most of the competition.
Treadwear and Longevity
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Treadwear is respectable for this tire category. With proper maintenance including regular rotations and correct inflation, you can expect reasonable longevity. Driving style and road conditions will naturally affect how long the tires last. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger tread life and longevity than most of the competition.
Pros
- Balanced overall performance
- Good value for the category
- Reliable in varied conditions
- Backed by manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Slightly elevated road noise on paved surfaces
- Less effective traction in light snow and icy conditions
- Tread life may be shorter than touring alternatives
- May not suit all driving styles
Value Analysis
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S delivers outstanding value in the budget segment. Its performance ratings consistently exceed what you’d expect at this price point, and reasonable longevity when properly maintained adds to the long-term return on investment. For drivers seeking reliable standard touring all-season performance, this tire punches well above its weight.
The Verdict
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is a strong option if you value balanced performance and reliability. However, if you are sensitive to road noise or often drive in light snow and icy conditions, you might want to consider other alternatives. Overall, this tire is a worthy pick for those who need a reliable tire that performs well across a range of everyday conditions.
Yokohama AVID TOURING-S Problems
While the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is a capable tire, real-world feedback from drivers has highlighted a few areas of concern. These include faster than expected tread wear, challenges in light snow, ice, or slush, and a bit more road noise. It’s important to note that many of these issues are reported by a minority of owners and can often be mitigated with proper maintenance like keeping the right air pressure, regular rotations, and proper alignment.
Understanding these concerns can help you decide if this tire is the right choice for your driving needs.
Tread Wear Patterns
Rare
Occasional
Notable
Common
Several reviews mention faster than expected tread wear or uneven wear patterns on the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S. Some drivers report cupping or feathering, particularly when alignment or rotation schedules aren’t maintained.
Light Snow, Ice, and Slush Performance
Rare
Occasional
Notable
Common
Some drivers have noted that the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S can feel less confident in light snow, slush, or on icy surfaces. While deep snow traction is generally adequate, packed snow, slush, and glazed or black ice conditions can be more challenging compared to dedicated winter tires.
Road Noise
Typical
While many say the tire is quiet for its design, a few drivers have reported that it makes more road noise than factory tires or some premium options. This can be especially noticeable on paved roads.
Balancing and Installation Issues
Typical
A few reports mention problems during mounting or balancing the tire. Some drivers experienced vibrations or a wobbling feeling when the tires were new, which might require extra adjustments to get a smooth ride.
The Bottomline
While the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is a strong tire overall, it is not without its concerns. Issues such as shorter tread life, reduced traction in light snow, ice, or slush, higher road noise have been noted by some drivers. If these problems worry you, consider looking into our recommended alternatives.
Yokohama AVID TOURING-S Alternatives
While the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is a strong tire overall, some drivers have noted its extra road noise and lower performance in light snow or icy conditions. If these issues are a concern for you, consider these recommended alternatives.
Michelin Defender2
Michelin Defender2
Overall: A premium standard touring all-season tire known for its proven durability and high performance, the Michelin Defender2 is built for drivers who demand the best. It offers a robust performance package that can address some of the AVID TOURING-S’s concerns.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the AVID TOURING-S’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the AVID TOURING-S’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the AVID TOURING-S’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the AVID TOURING-S.
Yokohama AVID Ascend LX
Yokohama AVID Ascend LX
Overall: The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX is a well-balanced, average-priced tire that offers a good mix of performance and value. It delivers solid traction in most conditions and represents a strong alternative at its price point.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the AVID TOURING-S’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the AVID TOURING-S’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the AVID TOURING-S’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the AVID TOURING-S.
Firestone FR710
Firestone FR710
Overall: A budget-friendly option, the Firestone FR710 offers good value for drivers who want reliable performance without a high price tag. While it may not match the AVID TOURING-S in every area, it stands out as a strong performer for its cost.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Delivers adequate wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, though it doesn’t quite match the AVID TOURING-S’s exceptional wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Provides dependable dry traction and stable handling for everyday driving.
- Winter Performance: Offers adequate winter performance, though its snow and ice traction are lower than the AVID TOURING-S’s ratings.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Delivers a comfortable ride with solid treadwear, performing similarly to the AVID TOURING-S in day-to-day driving.
Each of these alternative tires brings its own strengths to the table.
- The Michelin Defender2 is a premium choice with proven durability and strong performance in many conditions.
- The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort at a solid average price.
- The Firestone FR710 is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Depending on your driving needs and what matters most to you, these tires can be great alternatives to the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Yokohama AVID TOURING-S is a solid all-season tire that offers great value with its balanced performance across categories. It is built for drivers who need a tire that performs well across varied conditions throughout the year.
However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks. Some drivers have also reported increased road noise Less reliable traction in light snow or on icy roads. While these issues are not widespread, they are worth considering if you have specific performance needs.
In the end, the Yokohama AVID TOURING-S offers a balanced mix of performance and value. If you want dependable all-season performance, it is a strong choice. But if you are concerned about the issues mentioned above, you might want to look at alternatives like the Michelin Defender2, Yokohama AVID Ascend LX, and the Firestone FR710. Your decision should reflect your driving style and priorities.
Good luck and happy motoring.
