Hey there, tire enthusiasts! I’ve been in the automotive industry for over two decades, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that not all tires are created equal. Last summer, I took a road trip in my trusty sedan fitted with Cooper GLS Touring tires. The experience? Smooth as butter, but with a couple of caveats. Stick around as we delve deep into this Cooper GLS Touring Review and see what makes these tires tick.
Key Takeaways
- All-Season Versatility: The Cooper GLS Touring is an all-season tire that performs well on both dry and wet surfaces.
- Affordable and Durable: With a starting price of around $95 and a 65,000-mile warranty, these tires offer excellent value for money.
- Comfort and Noise: These tires provide a quiet and comfortable ride, thanks to their optimized tread pattern.
- Winter Performance: While they offer moderate snow traction, they aren’t the best choice for heavy winter conditions.
- Fuel Efficiency: Due to their large contact patch, these tires may not be the most fuel-efficient option.
What Can We Learn From The Structure Of Its Design?
The Cooper GLS Touring tire features a computer-optimized tread pattern with three wide ribs in the center and large shoulder blocks. These design elements contribute to its excellent dry grip and handling capabilities. The tire also has four circumferential grooves that aid in water evacuation, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
Tires Traction On The Road
When it comes to dry and wet traction, the Cooper GLS Touring doesn’t disappoint. Its broad contact patch and semi-continuous ribs offer excellent rubber-to-road contact. However, the tire’s performance in snowy conditions is moderate at best. The lateral notches and 3D sipes do provide some snow biting, but the tire lacks a winter-optimized tread composition, making it less efficient in icy conditions.
What Is The On-Road Handling Of The Tire Like?
Handling is where this tire shines, especially on dry roads. The large shoulder blocks maintain consistent contact with the road during cornering, maximizing handling efficiency. On wet roads, the performance is moderate due to the overlapping blocks that limit aquaplaning resistance.
Tire’s Resistance To Hydroplaning
The Cooper GLS Touring does a commendable job in resisting hydroplaning. The circumferential grooves and 3D micro-gauge sipes effectively remove the water layer between the tread and the road. However, its resistance to hydroplaning while taking turns could be improved.
Is The Tire Fuel Efficient?
Fuel efficiency isn’t this tire’s strongest suit. The large contact patch increases rolling resistance, which in turn could lead to higher fuel consumption. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for you, you might want to consider other options.
Driving Comfort With This Tire
One of the standout features of this tire is its driving comfort. The optimized tread pattern minimizes noise production, making it one of the quieter tires on the market. On dry roads, the high traction due to the increased contact patch results in excellent stability, adding to the overall comfort.
How Long Is This Tire Going To Last?
Durability is another strong point for the Cooper GLS Touring. The tire is constructed with flexible and high-strength polyester cords, offering good chip and wear resistance. It also comes with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck.
FAQ
Are Cooper tires decent?
Absolutely, Cooper tires are known for their durability, comfort, and moderate pricing.
Are Cooper tires good in snow?
They offer moderate performance in snow but are not the best choice for heavy winter conditions.
Where do Cooper tires rank?
Cooper tires generally rank well in terms of durability and affordability but may lag in fuel efficiency and winter performance.
Which is better Goodyear or Cooper tires?
Both have their merits. Goodyear often excels in winter performance, while Cooper offers better affordability.
Is Cooper Tire owned by Michelin?
No, Cooper Tire is not owned by Michelin. It’s an independent company known for its range of budget-friendly, durable tires.
So there you have it, folks! The Cooper GLS Touring is a solid all-season tire that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and durability. While it may not be the best choice for heavy winter conditions or the most fuel-efficient option, it’s a reliable pick for those looking for an affordable and versatile tire. Until next time, drive safe!
