Vienna – Drivers across Europe are increasingly focused on value as the cost of vehicle ownership rises, but a new tire test from the Austrian automobile club ÖAMTC suggests that cutting corners on safety could prove a costly mistake. The organization’s 2026 summer tire test, published February 24, 2026, revealed that three budget tire models – the Lassa Revola, the Leao Nova-Force Acro, and the Linglong Sport Master – received a “not recommended” rating, highlighting significant deficiencies in both safety and environmental performance. The findings underscore the importance of considering comprehensive tire performance, not just price, when making a purchase.
The ÖAMTC tested 16 tires in the commonly used 225/50 R17 size, suitable for popular mid-size vehicles like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and VW Sharan. While ten tires achieved a “satisfactory” rating, the three failing models demonstrated a worrying trend: lower prices often come at the expense of performance. This latest assessment builds on similar findings from the German automobile club ADAC, which also issued a “not recommended” rating for these same tires following its own 2026 summer tire test. Archyde reported on the ADAC findings on February 26, 2026.
Lassa and Leao Struggle with Core Performance
The Lassa Revola and Leao Nova-Force Acro tires shared similar weaknesses, according to the ÖAMTC report. Both models struggled with dry handling and exhibited excessive tread wear, raising concerns about their longevity and overall cost-effectiveness. The Leao Nova-Force Acro also performed poorly in wet conditions, further diminishing its safety profile. These shortcomings suggest a compromise in rubber compound quality and tread pattern design, impacting the tires’ ability to maintain grip and control in various driving scenarios.
Linglong Sport Master: A Case of Conflicting Strengths
The Linglong Sport Master presented a more complex picture. Remarkably, the tire achieved the best wet grip performance of any tire tested, rivaling the overall test winner. However, this single strength was dramatically undermined by abysmal dry handling, exceptionally high tread wear, and a shockingly low lifespan. As an ÖAMTC representative explained, the Sport Master exemplifies the difficult balancing act tire manufacturers face. “Der Sport Master hat die besten Nassgriffeigenschaften des ganzen Feldes – nur der Testsieger kann hier einigermaßen mithalten. Die Kehrseite der Medaille: Auf trockener Fahrbahn ist kein Testkandidat schwächer, die Laufleistung ist so gering, der Abrieb so hoch wie bei keinem anderen Modell,” – meaning, “The Sport Master has the best wet grip properties of the entire field – only the test winner can come close. The downside of the medal: On dry roads, no test candidate is weaker, the mileage is as low, and the abrasion as high as with no other model.”
This disparity highlights the challenges of optimizing tire performance across all conditions. While excellent wet grip is crucial for safety in rainy weather, poor dry handling can significantly increase the risk of accidents during normal driving conditions. The high tread wear also raises concerns about the tire’s long-term value, as drivers will necessitate to replace it more frequently, potentially negating any initial cost savings. Memesita also covered the ADAC’s assessment of the Linglong Sport Master’s performance.
Commercial Focus for Linglong
Linglong Tire, the Chinese manufacturer of the Sport Master, also produces the NOVA-FORCE VAN tire, described as a commercial tire with high grip performance and low rolling resistance for energy efficiency. According to Linglong’s website, the NOVA-FORCE VAN features improved grip and is designed for commercial applications.
Implications for Drivers and the Tire Industry
The ÖAMTC’s findings serve as a stark reminder that tire performance is a complex equation, and prioritizing price alone can have serious consequences. Drivers should carefully consider all aspects of tire performance – including dry and wet handling, tread wear, and fuel efficiency – when making a purchase. The results also underscore the need for tire manufacturers to prioritize safety and durability alongside affordability. The Continental PremiumContact 7, Pirelli Cinturato C3, and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 were the three tires to receive a “good” rating from ADAC, suggesting a higher standard of overall performance is achievable.
The ÖAMTC plans to publish a more detailed report on its 2026 summer tire test, including specific performance data for each tire model, in the coming weeks. Drivers can consult this report and other independent tire reviews to make informed decisions about their vehicle’s safety and performance. The next scheduled update from ÖAMTC regarding tire testing is expected in early March 2026, when they will release the full data set.
Have your own experiences with different tire brands? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with anyone considering new tires this season.
