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Summer tire Summer Tires Updated May 2026

Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050 review

The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050 receives highly polarized feedback, with many users expressing significant dissatisfaction regarding its performance as an Original Equipment (OE) tire. While a minority of drivers appreciate its dry-weather handling and value, a substantial number of owners report dangerous handling characteristics, poor wet-weather traction, and premature tread wear.

Relative score
68/100
tests + owners
Owner reviews
39/100
17 reviews
Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050
Scores

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

39.1%
Would buy again 33%
Dry
Overall dry
70%
Wet
Overall wet
57.1%
Snow & ice
Overall snow & ice
90%
Comfort
Overall comfort
58.2%
Noise
Overall noise
90%
Treadwear
Overall treadwear
57.4%
Handling
Overall handling
74%
By source
DriverReviews92%21 reviews Tyre Reviews63%5 reviews
From owners

What owners like and dislike

Themes extracted from 17 owner reviews across retailers and review sites.

The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050 receives highly polarized feedback, with many users expressing significant dissatisfaction regarding its performance as an Original Equipment (OE) tire. While a minority of drivers appreciate its dry-weather handling and value, a substantial number of owners report dangerous handling characteristics, poor wet-weather traction, and premature tread wear.

Pros

  • Satisfactory handling and steering feedback in dry conditions
  • Competitive pricing compared to premium aftermarket alternatives
  • Improved performance over certain budget-tier replacement tires

Cons

  • Severe lack of wet-weather grip and high hydroplaning risk
  • Poor directional stability, often described as 'tracking' or 'swerving' on grooved pavement
  • Rapid and premature tread wear
  • Excessive road noise and harsh ride quality

Worth knowing

  • Owners of premium sedans like the Lexus GS350 and Infiniti Red Sport frequently report that the tire's handling characteristics do not meet the performance expectations of their vehicles.
  • Users report that the tire's tendency to follow road grooves is particularly pronounced on high-performance or luxury chassis setups.
Where to buy

Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050 specs & sizes

Prices vary by size, so each one links out separately.

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