When Toyo launched his Observe GSi-6 tire, it was emphatically stated that it was a performance tire. A tire that was clearly intended for the sports cars that enthusiasts drive even in winter. No skimping on grip then.
Sometimes chance or stubbornness can make things right. So we decided to put these new Toyo Observe GSi-6 tires to the test throughout the winter. But because we like to do things differently, our performance car will actually be… a Mazda5!
You read that right: A family vehicle, small in size, and not necessarily (if at all) designed for winter sports driving. Never mind, we want to know precisely what these Toyos are worth.
After all, they are also sold to be installed on vehicles of all kinds. They’re built for performance, but they should have exceptional grip and unique steering capability using the latest technology.
In short, tires that should do the job all winter long, including on our family vehicle. To test drive the mini-minivan, we’ll take the opportunity to sometimes borrow a family, who will also take the opportunity to test drive the vehicle. In their early thirties, two young adults, not particularly fond of sporty driving but rather of safety, and their two young children, will alternate with us at the wheel of this vehicle.
We will therefore know, somewhere in February, if the Toyo’s live up to its reputation! We’ll keep you posted!
The Toyo Observe GSi-6
These are Toyo’s latest generation tires. They benefit from Microbit technology, a unique way of using nut powder integrated into the tire tread to maximize grip. Of course, this powder is added to the traditional silica for a better temperature distribution on the tread.
Physically, the style of the tires is also adapted to all conditions. Tapered drainage grooves quickly evacuate water or slush from the center of the tire. Toyo’s three-dimensional corrugated siping enhances the tire’s performance, especially under braking, cornering and acceleration, and increases its life.
In short, very admirable qualities, at least according to Toyo. But at the time of writing, the tires have only been on our car for a few hours, and the road is warm and almost dry. So we’ll have to wait a few weeks to learn more about the real performance of the Toyo Observe GSi-6. Come back to Blackcircles.ca to learn more about our test drive!
