Sometimes Simplicity is Key: The Best Basic Tires for the Prius

With a name like “Energy Saver”, how could a Prius driver overlook these tires? Michelin touts the Energy Saver A/S as one of the most fuel efficient choices in the passenger all-season category, and there is little reason to doubt that claim. This tire proves what Michelin can do with their Green X technology, considering its ultra low rolling resistance and energy-optimized tread design. Don't expect summer tire performance out of the Energy Saver A/S. Rather, enjoy the smooth, quiet ride and long tread life.

If you have the latest Prius, go and check what tires are currently mounted on the wheels. Chances are, you have the Bridgestone Ecopia EP20. That's right, this tire is original equipment for the Prius, and also happens to be one of the better choices for the car.

This tire was developed specifically for the Prius, and it shows through the ultra low rolling resistance design. Traction levels are not very high, but will get the job done for most tasks that the Prius will be put up to. Unfortunately, this tire is not without its drawbacks.

The rate of tread wear is disappointing if you expect tires to last a while. Also, if you happen to own an older Prius, you'll have to purchase a new set of wheels to use these tires as they are only offered in one size: 195/65R15. On the flip side, these tires are downright affordable at around $86 each. If the tires on your Prius are worn out or need replacement, this is one case where it helps to stay with original equipment tires and select the Bridgestone Ecopia EP20.

The Continental ProContact EcoPlus all-season tires are designed to provide all-around performance while improving fuel economy due to their low rolling resistance and lighter weight. Although users report mixed results, these tires are nonetheless excellent tires overall.

The ProContact EcoPlus tires offer a quiet and comfortable ride, with confidence-inspiring handling in most weather conditions. Like any all-season tire, these are not nearly as capable of handling winter conditions as a dedicated winter tire, but in both wet and dry conditions they offer good steering response and traction. Tread life is also excellent, resulting in an overall solid tire that is good for general-purpose use.

The Bridgestone Turanza EL400-02 all-season tires offer low rolling resistance to allow for optimum fuel economy, while providing solid traction in both wet and dry conditions. These tires were designed for responsive handling and long tread life, while being relatively affordable to purchase.

Although the Turanza EL400-02 tires do tend to get quite noisy at higher speeds and as they age, these tires offer solid basic performance for those who don't prioritize sporty handling. The Turanza EL400-02 tires aren’t suited for ice and snow, like most all-season tires but overall these tires are a solid choice if your priorities are tread life, fuel economy, and affordability.

These basic all-season tires offer good value for money, with decent performance and a long tread life. The Yokohama AVID Touring-S might not win any performance awards, but these tires complement the Prius' primary mission of good fuel economy.

They offer solid traction and handling in both wet and dry conditions, although like most all-season tires they are not well-suited to winter conditions. The AVID Touring-S tires offer a smooth ride, good handling, and durability for a reasonable price. The long tread life does come somewhat at the expense of outright traction, but for normal driving these tires are adequate.