Tyre test 2023: Yokohama Advan Apex V601

Michelin, Goodyear, and Continental are the default ultra-high-performance summer tyre manufacturers in the English-speaking world – but the Japanese know a thing or two about sticky rubber.

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Yokohama’s Neova semi-slick tyres are praised for their consistent grip and communication, so the Japanese tyremaker has ported its learnings into a sexy, broad-shouldered, road-focused tyre that ships standard on the GR Corolla in a 235/40 ZR18 size.

First impressions are positive with a firm sidewall and rubber compound that stood up to (admittedly damp) track abuse.

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The Advan Apex’s best attribute was great communication, which let me confidently press on in the wet.

Outright grip levels are not as high as a Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, or Continental SportContact 6. It’s also a very noisy tyre.

VERDICT

A solid all-rounder

The Yokohama Advan Apex V601 should be considered a strong-value, solid all-round alternative for those looking at new tyres for their hot hatch or performance sedan.