Yokohama dB Super E-Spec Tire Review & Rating
The dB Super E-Spec is Yokohama’s first tire that utilizes Orange Oil and other”green” materials to not only give it an eco-friendly makeup, but also better overall fuel efficiency. Designed for drivers of small hybrids and fuel efficient vehicles, this model is engineered for summer driving performance.
Yokohama has created what they call a Super Nano-Power Rubber tread compound that is derived from Orange Oil and other natural rubber materials that make it 80% petro chemical free. Its properties operate in two distinct modes. In “steady” mode the tread provides for a much lower rolling resistance, which increases gas mileage to save you money at the pump. In “active” mode the tread provides increased traction and grip on dry pavement as the materials in the tread heat up to enhance straight driving, cornering and braking performance.
Performance on wet road surfaces is handled by the tire’s four circumferential grooves that evacuate water from under the footprint and increase hydroplane resistance. Yokohama has also included siping around the tread to add even more traction, as well as reduce road noise. A twin rail stability rib provides added road stability and helps the tire maintain better contact.
An area that Yokohama has paid particular attention to is road noise and how to keep this tire as quiet as any in this class. They have added a five pitch tread block design that staggers the tread pattern to break up noise. A sound deflection sidewall further reduces road noise and makes for a more comfortable driving experience.
Inside the tire you will find two steel belts with nylon wrapped reinforcement for added strength and stability throughout the speed zone. Yokohama has made this tire more air-tight in order to retain tire inflation pressure by using their AirTex Advanced Liner system. This new liner is only 1/5 as thick as more conventional tire liners. The result is a tire that weighs less and has enhanced rolling resistance.
Pros
- Dry traction is very good
- Crisp steering response
- Higher fuel efficiency
- Tires rides comfortably and quietly
Cons
- Wet handling could be better
- Tread wear
Overall Thoughts
Note: Yokohama has discontinued making the dB Super E-spec since our review was written.
We have mixed feeling on the dB E-Spec. The environmentally friendly makeup of the tire and increased fuel efficiency is excellent. Yokohama has done an exceptional job and you should see some savings over time at the gas pump. Dry traction and steering response is another strong area for this model, as is the outstanding ride comfort. It is also one of the most quiet tires in this class.
We would like to see better wet road handling on this tire. You really have to use extra caution on wet surfaces. Naturally, winter weather driving is not advised as this is a summer tread design. Overall, we like what Yokohama is doing with this model and where they are going with it, but there are some improvements that need to be made.
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What Vehicles Will The Yokohama dB Super E-Spec Fit?
(This is not a complete list of ALL vehicles this tire will fit)
- Honda Civic
- Mercedes-Benz E320
- Mini Cooper
- Toyota Prius, Camry, Yaris
Tire Sizes
15″
185/65R-15 88H BSW
195/65R-15 91H BSW
16″
195/55R-16 87V BSW
215/60R-16 95V BSW
Price Range
Prices on the Yokohama dB range from approximately $129 and up. You may also find occasional rebates, discounts, coupons and special offers on this tire.
Click Here To Find Current Price On All Yokohama dB Super E-Spec Tire Sizes
Warranty
Yokohama includes a limited warranty on the dB E-Spec. Tire uniformity is guaranteed for the first 2/32 inch of wear. Materials and workmanship are warranted for 5-years and provide for free replacement during the first year or first 2/32 inch of wear. A prorated amount is given for the remaining time period or down to the final 2/32 inch of tread depth.
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