This is a standard size for Alphard/Vellfire which are using a 18 inches rims as a standard.
My current tire is due to 'over-age'. My Alphard was installed with Bridgestone Potenza RE050 225/45R18 manufactured in 2008. Already 5 years worn. The condition of the tires :
1. The tread left - about 50%.
2. Many small cracked rubber all around.
3. Driving experience - felt 'hard bumping' and quite noisy
Need to change because worry it may be well exploded during cruising on the highway.
My hunting begins with:
1. FALKEN ZIEX 512
2. FALKEN AZENIS PT722
3. ACHILLES ATR SPORT 1
4. ACHILLES ATR SPORT 2
5. GT RADIAL CHAMPIRO HPY
Falken, Japan brand but manufactured in Thailand. Not recommended tires for MPV, especially Falken Ziex 512. Got many negative review from MPV owner (Estima & Alphard). Moreover, during my time in Japan, my japanese mechanic did not recommend the Falken for full size MPV.He said not comfortable in term of noise and performance in wet condition.
Achilles and GT Radial, both budget tyre under RM550, made in Indonesia. From observation, GT Radial is slightly expensive.
Finally decided to use Achilles ATR Sport 2. Priced at RM427.50/pc at one of the tire workshop in Batu Pahat. Need to order coz no stock at that time. One month after placing order, the tires finally reached at the workshop.
Achilles ATR Sport 2., manufactured code 0813. Means that the tires are manufactured on the 8th week of the year 2013.
After being fitted to my Alphard
So far, no complain. Compare to previous tires, quite stable in motion may be due to the widen tires and more comfortable. Previous tire, Bridgestone Potenza 225/45R18 is not suitable size for full size MPV in my opinion. Achilles so far is less noise compare to 5 year previous tire.
Below than RM500/pc this tires, the performance is suit its price. According to the online reviews, ATR Sport scored quite good comments.
