Skip to content
Summer tire Summer Max Performance tires Updated May 2026

Dunlop SP Sport Maxx review

The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx is a polarizing ultra-high-performance tire that excels in dry-weather handling and steering responsiveness but faces significant criticism regarding tread longevity and noise levels. While many users praise its initial grip and stability, a substantial portion of the user base reports inconsistent performance in wet conditions and premature wear, leading to a mixed overall consensus.

Relative score
72/100
tests + owners
Owner reviews
67/100
180 reviews
Dunlop SP Sport Maxx
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

66.8%
Would buy again 52%
Dry
Overall dry
79.9%
Corner stability
76.5%
Dry traction
84%
Steering response
78%
Wet
Overall wet
70.2%
Hydroplaning resistance
82%
Wet traction
76%
Snow & ice
Overall snow & ice
70%
Comfort
Overall comfort
65.7%
Ride comfort
79%
Noise
Overall noise
95%
Treadwear
Overall treadwear
63.7%
Handling
Overall handling
67%
From owners

What owners like and dislike

Themes extracted from 180 owner reviews across retailers and review sites.

The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx is a polarizing ultra-high-performance tire that excels in dry-weather handling and steering responsiveness but faces significant criticism regarding tread longevity and noise levels. While many users praise its initial grip and stability, a substantial portion of the user base reports inconsistent performance in wet conditions and premature wear, leading to a mixed overall consensus.

Pros

  • Strong dry-weather grip and cornering stability
  • High level of steering feedback and precision
  • Effective rim protection design
  • Good aquaplaning resistance in straight lines

Cons

  • Rapid and often uneven tread wear
  • High levels of road noise, particularly as the tire ages
  • Inconsistent or poor wet-weather traction
  • Susceptibility to sidewall cracking and bubbling

Worth knowing

  • Owners of high-torque, rear-wheel-drive vehicles frequently report excessive wheel spin and poor traction off the line.
  • Drivers of heavier luxury sedans and SUVs often note that the tire's stiff sidewall provides good handling but can lead to a harsh ride and increased cabin noise.
  • Users with high-performance hatchbacks frequently report 'sawtoothing' wear patterns, resulting in significant humming noises.
Where to buy

Dunlop SP Sport Maxx specs & sizes

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

Specifications
Tread depth10/32″
SidewallBlackwall
SizeRetailer
245/35 R20 Amazon

TireWheelGuide may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.

Head-to-head

Dunlop SP Sport Maxx compared

Compare any two