Overall Rating
Firestone Firehawk AS V2
Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Firestone Firehawk AS V2’s wet traction and braking are simply amazing. Albeit, its traction grade is based on a straight-ahead wet braking traction test and does not include a cornering traction test. This tire is not easily affected by overheating problems.
Irrespective of its high quality, the tire comes at a relatively cheap price. In fact, it is one of the cheapest in its category among other premium competitors.
You may not get the best in this tire if you subject it to snow levels higher than 3 inches. While this tire is generally outstanding, its poor performance in severe winter conditions is a major challenge. If you need performance tires with severe winter capabilities, alternative tires are available which we have mentioned at the end of this review.
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 is indeed an exceptional ultra high-performance tire in its class. This tire’s sporty grip and responsive handling are commendable. However, there are other tires in its category that are better than Firehawk AS V2.
Suitable for
Not Suitable for
What Do Drivers Say About Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tires?
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 has consistently received users’ high praise and positive ratings over time. They are satisfied with its performance, especially in wet conditions.
A couple of user reports revealed that the tire is unsuitable for winter driving. Although its sporty nature for dry/wet conditions is superb, this seemed to be a drawback.
After several months of use, first-hand feedback from drivers reveals that this tire is reliable and has minimal wear.
Pricing and Availability
Firestone tires are known for their low prices and premium quality. The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tires are available in the market from $145 to $270. The low price tag and dependable performance are a big reason for its popularity among enthusiast drivers.
Key Features and Benefits of Firestone Firehawk AS V2
- INDYCAR-inspired Tread Design provides sporty grip and top-notch responsive handling through corners.
- The large outboard tread blocks and interlocking lugs provide stability at high speeds.
- Three deep circumferential grooves provide the required hydroplaning resistance.
- Advanced Silica Compound delivers improved wear resistance and durability.
- Durable Construction engineered with reinforced sidewalls and steel belts.
Specifications
- Category: Ultra High-Performance All-Season
- UTQG: 500 AA
- Maximum Speed: Up to 168 MPH
- Treadwear Warranty: 50,000 Miles
- Workmanship & Materials Warranty: N/A
- Manufacturer’s Road Hazard Warranty: No
- Maximum Inflation Pressure: 44-51 psi
- Tread depth: 8/32″ – 10/32″
- Rim Width Range: The Rim width ranges from a minimum of 5.5 inches to a maximum of 11 inches based on different tire sizes
- Load Range: SL or XL
- Tire sizes: 43 tire sizes are available for 17 to 20-inch rim diameter
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) Rating: No
- Mud + Snow (M+S) Rating: Yes
Detailed Performance Analysis of Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire
Treadwear and Tread Life
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tire’s treadwear and tread life are simply amazing. The tire’s treadwear rating of 500 depicts a reliable long tread service life.
The Firehawk AS V2 performs well on debris and rough roads. Irrespective of its simple compound designs, the tire is strong against sharp objects. However, excessive use of this tire on rough roads is not recommended at all.
The treadwear warranty of 50,000 miles guarantees a reliable and extended service life. However, the given mileage warranty depends on your particular driving habits to attain its potential service life.
Dry Grip and Traction
The Firehawk AS V2’s dry grip and traction performance are good but not one of the best in its category.
The tire’s directional tread pattern delivers exceptional handling and confident stability when driving at high speeds. With this, you can joy predictable and highly responsive handling.
The Firehawk AS V2 tire’s high traction rating ranks higher than its other ultra-high-performance counterparts. During fast driving on dry roads, you can be sure of safety and confident control. This tire delivers effective handling in corners with minimal oversteer and understeer.
The tire is also built to maintain internal composure when engaging in long trips. It handles gravel and mountain passes commendably. The Firehawk AS V2 also maintains ground well against different road patterns.
Wet Grip and Hydroplaning Resistance
When it comes to wet grip and hydroplaning resistance, I personally think the Firhawk AS V2 should be respected.
The tire’s wet handling is top-notch due to its full-depth 3D interlocking sipes and multi-directional siping.
This tire delivers consistent feedback with minimal changes even when driving at higher speeds on wet roads. It is very suitable for fundamental driving situations such as cornering and lane shifting.
This tire features circumferential grooves that help to channel water effectively, thereby enhancing hydroplaning resistance. The tire’s wide shoulder blocks supported by the circumferential grooves enhance short braking distances.
Noise and Comfort
The tire produced very low road noise at normal speed and high speed. Its comfort edge sidewall helps to absorb road bumps, thereby providing a comfortable ride. The Firehawk delivers comfort at high speeds but with some vibrations and controlled jostles. I also noticed tire screeching when driving, especially when turning and in wet/snow road conditions. However, it is not distracting at all.
Winter Performance (Snow and Ice)
When it comes to winter performance, the Firehawk delivers an adequate performance. But I do not think its winter performance is exceptional.
The Firhawk is only compatible with light winter conditions and is not recommended for severe snow. It was built with some improvements in light snow over its predecessors. Its light snow performance all through its service life is a function of the 3D full-depth sipes.
Unfortunately, this tire struggles hard in snow levels above 3 inches. The Firehawk AS V2’s performance on icy roads is very poor as it experiences slippage and hydroplaning. However, these drawbacks are not unnatural for all-season performance tires. They are not built for use on ice.
Comparison with Competitor Tires
The Firehawk AS V2 is relatively behind in many aspects when compared to some of its premium counterparts. For example, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 outperforms the Firehawk AS V2. Whether in dry and wet traction, handling, grip, and snow traction, the AS4 outshines the AS V2.
However, the Firehawk AS V2’s tread life is significantly higher than the Pilot Sport All Season 4. The road noise level and comfort of the two tires are almost similar. But the Michelin seems to possess a slight advantage. Another area where the Firehawk AS V2 has an advantage is in pricing as it is relatively cheaper.
When we compared the Firehawk to its other competitor, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus, the results were similar. However, the ExtremeContact DWS06 possesses a slight advantage in snow traction. Nevertheless, the Firestone beats the ExtremeContact in pricing.
Some Notable Alternatives
1st Alternative
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season offers excellent dry and wet traction. Its wet and snow performance is significantly better. Although slightly pricier.
Read our full Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 Review
2nd Alternative
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is better in terms of snow traction. Handling, stability, and steering response are quite similar.
3rd Alternative
Falken Azenis FK460 A/S
Falken Azenis FK460 A/S has a similar price range as Firestone Firehawk AS V2 but slightly better overall performance. High-grip chamfer delivers excellent dry traction and handling.
Can I Use Firestone Firehawk AS V2 for Off-Road Driving?
No. The manufacturer does not design the Firehawk AS V2 for off-road driving. I think you should consider the following key points:
- Tire Design: The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 is a high-performance all-season tire. The tire’s design and tread pattern are engineered for pavement.
- Off-Road Limitations: When engaging off-road terrains, you need tires with a rugged and aggressive tread pattern. The tires must also feature a robust sidewall construction, as well as higher durability. This helps to handle rough terrain, mud, rocks, and other tough off-road conditions. Frankly, the Firehawk AS V2 does not possess these specialized capabilities.
- Compromised Performance: Engaging off-road terrains with the Firehawk AS V2 can lead to a significant decline in its tread life.
You’ll also face the risk of tire damage such as sidewall tears or punctures. This will eventually result in the absence of safety as you drive and I do not encourage such adventure.
How We Review the Tires?
There is a lot of work behind our detailed tire reviews. We adopt a multi-dimensional approach and our reviews are the collective wisdom of many users.
Before reviewing, we undertake extensive market research, meticulously examine the specifications of each tire, and carry out a very thorough analysis of user reviews from top retailers. Finally, our keen tire experts apply their experience and expertise and provide a well-rounded assessment of tires. Read our detailed review process.
