Back in 2009, Linglong made headlines for the wrong reasons. In Autocar’s 2009 tyre test, a Linglong tyre failed so badly in wet braking that the test car was still moving at 45 km/h when the leading tyre had already stopped. Fast forward to 2025, and Linglong is no longer a punchline. It’s a contender.
🌧️ Wet Performance
The Linglong Sport Master delivered one of the best wet braking distances in Auto Bild’s 2025 UHP test, stopping within 0.1 meters of the best-performing tyre. That’s not just improvement — that’s transformation. Wet handling is now confident, with strong lateral grip. Aquaplaning resistance is mid-pack but stable, showing no unsafe tendencies.
☀️ Dry Performance
Dry braking was equally solid — around 1.5 meters behind the class leader, and dry handling was described as “balanced and predictable.” It may lack the razor-edge of pricier tyres but for normal driving, Linglong no longer trails far behind.
🎧 Comfort & Noise
Linglong has made strides here too, but there’s still room to grow. The Sport Master scored middle of the pack in subjective comfort and was slightly louder than average at 73.1 dB. Still, it’s a far cry from the harsh, noisy ride of older models.
⚡ Rolling Resistance
This is where Linglong falls behind. In 2025 tests, it had one of the worst rolling resistance values among finalists. It may save you money upfront but will cost a bit more at the fuel pump over time.
⏳ Mileage / Treadwear
Unfortunately, Linglong still struggles here. In Auto Bild’s treadwear test, the Sport Master was dead last, with just ~22,570 km projected lifespan. While it delivers performance, it burns through tread quickly.
📊 Verdict
Linglong’s rise is undeniable. From one of the worst wet performers ever tested to a top wet braker in 2025, this brand has made serious engineering progress. Its tyres are now safe and well-rounded for budget-conscious drivers. But if you’re chasing long mileage or top fuel economy, you might want to look elsewhere.
Stay tuned for Part 3: Giti Tire — the quiet achiever bridging the gap between China and mid-tier Europe.
