Dunlop SP Sport 01 review
The Dunlop SP Sport 01 receives highly polarized feedback, with users divided between those who value its predictable handling and longevity and those frustrated by significant road noise and inconsistent wet-weather performance. While many owners appreciate the tire's stiff sidewall for steering precision and cornering stability, a substantial number of reviewers report that noise levels increase dramatically as the tread wears down.
Two scoring systems, side by side
Owner scores come from reviews on retailer and review sites; road-test scores come from instrumented tests. Where they disagree, it is usually a discipline owners rarely push to the limit.
By owner reviews
68.1%What owners like and dislike
Themes extracted from 134 owner reviews across retailers and review sites.
The Dunlop SP Sport 01 receives highly polarized feedback, with users divided between those who value its predictable handling and longevity and those frustrated by significant road noise and inconsistent wet-weather performance. While many owners appreciate the tire's stiff sidewall for steering precision and cornering stability, a substantial number of reviewers report that noise levels increase dramatically as the tread wears down. Overall, it is viewed as a capable, long-lasting summer tire for daily driving, though it often falls short of expectations for high-performance vehicles.
Pros
- Excellent tread longevity and durability for many users
- Predictable, progressive handling and steering feedback
- Strong dry-weather grip and cornering stability
- Stiff sidewall construction provides a precise, 'on-rails' feel
Cons
- Significant and increasing road noise as the tire wears
- Inconsistent or poor wet-weather traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Harsh ride quality due to stiff sidewalls
- Performance drop-off once tread depth reaches 3-4mm
Worth knowing
- Users with heavy SUVs (e.g., Audi Q5, Skoda Yeti) often report high satisfaction with longevity and stability, though noise remains a common complaint.
- Owners of high-horsepower performance sedans (e.g., C63 AMG) frequently report that the tire struggles to manage torque, leading to excessive wheel spin and poor traction.
- BMW owners specifically noted that 'Star Rated' versions of this tire are essential for preventing drivetrain shuddering issues on certain X3 models.