What is the difference between Goodyear EfficientGrip 1st and 2nd generation?

[LailaAnn]

Goodyear EfficientGrip 1st and 2nd generation differ in tread pattern design. Goodyear EfficientGrip: The Goodyear EfficientGrip 2nd generation is an upgraded version of the current EfficientGrip series, maintaining its positioning as a high-end comfort tire. Through adjustments in compound and internal structure, it enhances wet braking performance while effectively improving fuel efficiency. The advantages of Goodyear EfficientGrip tires include not only the aforementioned features but also excellent noise reduction and a robust carcass structure, making the tires safer. However, its drawbacks include relatively weak overall grip and slightly inferior wear resistance. Advantages of Goodyear EfficientGrip: Goodyear is a typical American brand, focusing on noise resistance. Its grip is second only to Pirelli, and its noise level is close to Pirelli. The advantages of Goodyear tires include wear resistance, durability due to their harder compound, and excellent grip and water drainage.

[DelLawson]

I've used Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance Gen 1 and Gen 2 for several years, and the main differences lie in performance improvements and actual driving experience. The Gen 2's optimized tread design provides significantly better wet grip - I once experienced wheel slip with Gen 1 on a rainy highway, but Gen 2 remains rock steady. Noise control has also improved substantially; while Gen 1 developed a noticeable cabin hum over time, Gen 2 stays virtually silent, making long drives much more comfortable. In terms of durability, Gen 1 wore faster, whereas Gen 2's more wear-resistant material lasts about six months longer. Fuel efficiency is another highlight - Gen 2's lower rolling resistance delivers approximately 5% better fuel economy than Gen 1. If budget allows, going straight for Gen 2 offers greater safety and peace of mind, as tires are your first line of defense for driving safety.

[HenryMarie]

From a technical perspective, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 represents detailed material upgrades over its predecessor. The 2nd generation features an updated tread compound formula with added silica to enhance wet traction, combined with ActiveBraking technology for shorter braking distances. Its internal structure has also been optimized to reduce vibration transmission, delivering noticeably quieter driving. While the 1st generation had higher rolling resistance, the 2nd generation improves fuel efficiency by approximately 8-10%. Additionally, deeper tread grooves accelerate water drainage post-rainfall, reducing hydroplaning risks. Test data confirms the 2nd generation's superior wet braking performance, along with greater eco-friendliness and energy efficiency. While average drivers may perceive minimal differences, the 2nd generation proves more reliable long-term.

[VonFrank]

Daily driving on Goodyear EfficientGrip, the main difference between the 1st and 2nd generations lies in everyday comfort. The 2nd generation shows significant improvement in noise control—tire noise is inaudible during city traffic jams, while the 1st generation is relatively noisier. The wet performance gap is particularly noticeable: occasional skidding occurs with the 1st generation on rainy days, whereas the 2nd generation remains stable. Durability is better with the 2nd generation, as the tread on the 1st generation wears out faster after two years. While there’s little change in cost-effectiveness, the enhanced quietness and grip make commuting much easier.