Skip to content
Summer tire Summer Touring tires Updated May 2026

Matador MP 42 Elite 2 review

The Matador MP 42 Elite 2 is widely recognized for its exceptional tread longevity, frequently cited as lasting upwards of 70,000 kilometers. However, this durability comes at the cost of performance, with significant user concerns regarding wet-weather safety, hardening of the rubber compound over time, and inconsistent braking performance during high-temperature conditions.

Relative score
68/100
tests + owners
Owner reviews
64/100
6 reviews
Matador MP 42 Elite 2
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

64%
Would buy again 40%
Dry
Overall dry
70%
Corner stability
62%
Dry traction
70%
Steering response
63%
Wet
Overall wet
55%
Wet traction
55%
Comfort
Overall comfort
73%
Treadwear
Overall treadwear
82%
Handling
Overall handling
62%
From owners

What owners like and dislike

Themes extracted from 6 owner reviews across retailers and review sites.

The Matador MP 42 Elite 2 is widely recognized for its exceptional tread longevity, frequently cited as lasting upwards of 70,000 kilometers. However, this durability comes at the cost of performance, with significant user concerns regarding wet-weather safety, hardening of the rubber compound over time, and inconsistent braking performance during high-temperature conditions.

Pros

  • Exceptional tread life and durability
  • Reliable performance in dry, moderate conditions
  • Cost-effective value for high-mileage drivers

Cons

  • Poor and potentially dangerous wet-weather traction
  • Rubber compound prone to hardening over time
  • Increased braking distances and premature ABS activation in hot weather
  • Reduced grip during aggressive acceleration

Worth knowing

  • Users reported high satisfaction with longevity when used as rear-axle tires on lighter passenger vehicles.
  • Drivers of Skoda Octavia models noted significant performance degradation in rainy, mountainous terrain.