Goodyear Fortera HL Review: All-Season Touring Tire for Sedans, Minivans, Crossovers, and Small SUVs

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Are you in the market for a reliable, long-lasting tire that can handle various road conditions without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Goodyear Fortera HL. This popular all-season touring tire has been winning over drivers of sedans, minivans, and crossovers with its impressive blend of performance, comfort, and value.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes the Fortera HL stand out in the crowded tire market. We’ll explore its innovative design features, examine its performance across different driving conditions, and analyze feedback from both professional testers and everyday drivers.

Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend road-tripper, or somewhere in between, join us as we uncover why the Goodyear Fortera HL might be the perfect tire for your vehicle. Get ready to learn how this versatile tire strikes a balance between long-lasting durability, all-season traction, and wallet-friendly pricing.

What is the Goodyear Fortera HL Tire?

The Goodyear Fortera HL is an all-season touring tire designed for drivers of sedans, minivans, crossovers, and small SUVs who want a combination of a comfortable ride, good treadwear, and all-season traction. It sits in the standard touring tire category of Goodyear’s product lineup, representing a solid value option with affordable pricing.

The Fortera HL features an asymmetric tread pattern with independent tread blocks and high-density 3D siping for enhanced grip on wet roads. Its internal construction utilizes two steel belts reinforced with spirally wrapped nylon for increased durability and uniformity. Goodyear’s proprietary TredLock technology helps maintain tread block integrity for longer-lasting performance.

Intended as an original equipment tire for many popular models as well as a high-value replacement option, the Fortera HL caters to drivers seeking a long-lasting, dependable tire that can provide year-round traction without a significant premium price tag. Its blend of all-season capabilities and ride comfort make it a versatile choice for daily driving applications.

Fortera HL Design and Construction

The Goodyear Fortera HL features an advanced tread design engineered for enhanced traction and wear resistance. The symmetric tread pattern utilizes a combination of solid shoulder blocks and independent tread blocks to deliver reliable grip on both dry and wet surfaces. The tread compound incorporates a silica-enhanced rubber formulation, improving traction while promoting even wear.

Beneath the tread, the Fortera HL employs a twin-layer casing construction with two steel belts reinforced by spirally wrapped nylon for increased durability and improved high-speed capabilities. This robust internal structure enhances steering response and stability, while also contributing to the tire’s overall longevity.

Goodyear’s specialized manufacturing process ensures precise construction and uniform quality across each Fortera HL tire. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities employ advanced robotics and computer-controlled systems to maintain tight tolerances and consistency throughout the production cycle.

In terms of materials, the Fortera HL features a proprietary blend of synthetic and natural rubbers, optimized for a balanced combination of grip, wear resistance, and rolling resistance. The tire’s internal components, including the steel belts and nylon reinforcements, are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily driving while providing a comfortable and controlled ride.

Performance Benchmarks

The Goodyear Fortera HL delivers reliable all-season performance across a variety of driving conditions. In dry conditions, the tire’s advanced tread compound and symmetric pattern provide excellent grip and responsive handling. The solid center rib enhances stability and cornering precision, while the independent tread blocks promote even wear and traction.

When the roads are wet, the Fortera HL’s deep, circumferential grooves efficiently evacuate water from the tread area, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving wet traction. The tire’s specialized siping design also enhances grip on slippery surfaces, providing confidence in rainy conditions.

Handling and cornering grip are strengths of the Fortera HL, thanks to its optimized tread design and construction. The tire feels planted and responsive, delivering precise steering input and minimal body roll during spirited driving. Even at highway speeds, the Fortera HL maintains its composure, contributing to a comfortable and controlled ride.

While not designed as a dedicated touring tire, the Fortera HL strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The tire’s internal structure and reinforced casing help absorb road imperfections, resulting in a smooth and compliant ride quality, especially on well-maintained surfaces.

One area where the Fortera HL excels is its low noise levels. Goodyear’s engineers have implemented various noise-reducing technologies, such as specialized tread patterns and advanced tread polymers, to minimize tire roar and cabin noise. This results in a quieter and more enjoyable driving experience, especially on long highway journeys.

Durability and Treadlife

The Goodyear Fortera HL is designed to provide excellent treadlife and durability. Goodyear utilizes an advanced tread compound that balances long wear with all-season traction. The tire features a symmetric tread pattern with deep, solid shoulder blocks to resist irregular wear.

Goodyear backs the Fortera HL with a 65,000 mile treadwear warranty for V-speed rated models and 80,000 miles for T-speed rated tires. This warranty coverage is an indicator of the tire’s expected longevity under normal driving conditions.

Real-world owner reports suggest the Fortera HL delivers on its promised treadlife. Many drivers report getting 60,000-80,000 miles out of their Fortera HL tires before needing to replace them. Proper tire rotation, maintaining correct air pressure, and avoiding excessive speeds or aggressive driving help maximize tread life. Some owners have even reported getting over 100,000 miles on a set in ideal conditions.

The tire’s dual compound construction aids in resisting irregular wear patterns. However, a few owners have noted some cupping or chopping on the inner tread blocks at higher mileages. Overall, the Fortera HL demonstrates excellent durability and treadwear for an all-season touring tire, living up to Goodyear’s reputation for long tread life.

Fuel Efficiency Ratings

The Goodyear Fortera HL is designed with a focus on low rolling resistance, which translates to improved fuel efficiency for the vehicles it’s installed on. According to Goodyear’s internal testing, the Fortera HL delivers up to 4% better rolling efficiency compared to their previous generation of touring tires.

This improved rolling resistance is achieved through a combination of factors, including an optimized tread compound, advanced construction techniques, and a tire profile engineered for low rolling resistance. The tread compound uses a specialized polymer blend that helps reduce internal heat buildup, resulting in less energy lost to friction.

Independent testing organizations have also evaluated the Fortera HL’s rolling resistance. The tire has received excellent ratings from groups like Consumer Reports, which measure a tire’s impact on fuel economy through real-world driving tests. Their data suggests that vehicles equipped with the Fortera HL can see a noticeable improvement in gas mileage compared to higher rolling resistance tires.

For drivers, this improved fuel efficiency can translate into tangible savings at the pump over the life of the tires. Even a modest 2-3% improvement in gas mileage can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings for the average driver. And with fuel prices always fluctuating, any gain in efficiency is a welcome benefit.

Seasonal Performance

The Goodyear Fortera HL is designed as an all-season tire, engineered to provide reliable traction and grip in a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. While it excels in dry and wet conditions, its snow and ice traction capabilities are moderate at best.

During winter months with frequent snowfall or icy conditions, the Fortera HL may struggle to maintain optimal grip and traction. The tire’s tread compound is formulated for all-season use, which means it doesn’t have the specialized sipes and biting edges found in dedicated winter tires. As a result, drivers may experience reduced control and increased stopping distances on snow-covered or icy roads.

However, the Fortera HL does offer a relatively wide temperature flexibility range, allowing it to maintain its performance characteristics in both hot and cold climates. The tire’s internal construction and tread design help it remain pliable and responsive, even in sub-freezing temperatures.

For those who live in regions with mild winters and occasional light snow, the Fortera HL can provide acceptable traction with proper driving techniques and caution. However, for areas with frequent heavy snowfall or extended periods of icy conditions, dedicated winter tires may be a better choice for enhanced safety and control.

Sizing Options and Fitments

The Goodyear Fortera HL is available in a wide range of sizes to fit most passenger cars, minivans, and crossovers. Sizing starts at 15 inches and goes up to 20 inches in diameter. Multiple sidewall profiles are offered for each diameter to ensure a proper fit on various wheel widths and vehicle applications.

When selecting a tire size, it’s generally recommended to stay within the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications for optimal performance and safety. However, many drivers opt for plus-sizing or minus-sizing their tires to achieve a desired look or handling characteristic.

Plus-sizing involves fitting a larger diameter tire and wheel combination than the vehicle’s stock size. This can provide improved cornering stability, a more aggressive stance, and better hydroplaning resistance. Minus-sizing, on the other hand, involves downsizing to a smaller tire and wheel package, which can improve ride comfort, increase sidewall protection, and potentially enhance fuel efficiency.

To ensure proper fitment, Goodyear provides a comprehensive vehicle fitment guide on their website. This tool allows users to input their vehicle’s make, model, year, and trim level to see a list of compatible Fortera HL sizes. It’s essential to double-check clearances and load ratings before making any changes to your vehicle’s original equipment tire size.

Pricing and Value

The Goodyear Fortera HL is positioned as a premium all-season touring tire, and its pricing reflects this positioning. On a per-tire basis, the Fortera HL typically ranges from $120 to $200, depending on the size and retailer. This places it squarely in the higher mid-tier to premium price range for the all-season touring category.

Goodyear offers the Fortera HL in a wide range of sizes, from 15-inch fitments for compact cars all the way up to 20-inch diameters for larger SUVs and trucks. The larger sizes command a premium, with 18-inch and above sizes often exceeding $180 per tire.

While the upfront cost is higher than many entry-level or mid-range all-season tires, the Fortera HL aims to deliver long-term value through its impressive treadwear warranties and fuel efficiency. Goodyear backs the Fortera HL with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty for V/H/V speed ratings and 50,000 miles for W-rated sizes. This is among the longest warranties in its class.

Additionally, the Fortera HL’s low rolling resistance compound and tread design help optimize fuel economy. Over the life of the tires, the fuel savings can potentially offset some of the higher initial purchase price compared to less efficient rivals.

When you factor in the blend of dry/wet traction, comfort, treadlife, and fuel efficiency, the Goodyear Fortera HL presents a compelling value proposition for drivers seeking a premium all-season touring tire without the premium luxury pricing of top-tier grand touring models.

Professional Reviews and Ratings

The Goodyear Fortera HL has received positive reviews from several professional tire testing organizations and automotive publications. Major outlets have praised its impressive all-season capabilities, responsive handling, and long treadlife.

Tire Rack, a leading online tire retailer known for its rigorous testing, awarded the Fortera HL an impressive 9.2/10 overall rating. Their evaluation highlighted the tire’s strong hydroplaning resistance, excellent snow traction for an all-season model, and low noise levels. Testers were also impressed by the tire’s high mileage warranty and consistent wear characteristics.

Consumer Reports, the renowned consumer advocacy publication, rated the Fortera HL as one of the top all-season tires in its category. Their tests commended the tire’s dry and wet road grip, as well as its comfortable ride quality. While not a dedicated winter tire, the publication noted the Fortera HL’s respectable snow traction for drivers in areas with milder winters.

Auto publications like Car and Driver and Edmunds have also given the Fortera HL positive reviews. Car and Driver praised its responsive steering feel and cornering stability, while Edmunds highlighted the tire’s smooth ride and long treadwear warranty as standout features.

Overall, professional reviews consistently laud the Goodyear Fortera HL as an excellent all-season tire choice, delivering a well-rounded performance across various driving conditions while offering exceptional value through its extended treadlife and warranty coverage.

Owner Feedback and Experiences

The Goodyear Fortera HL has received a range of feedback from real-world owners. Many drivers praise the tire’s impressive treadlife and durability, reporting they’ve gotten 60,000+ miles out of a set before needing to replace them. The tire’s all-season traction capabilities are frequently highlighted, with owners noting confident performance in both dry and wet conditions, as well as reasonable snow traction for an all-season tire.

On the negative side, some owners have complained about increased road noise compared to premium touring tires. There are also reports of the Fortera HL feeling a bit harsh or firm on rougher road surfaces. A few owners have noted faster treadwear than expected, though this seems to be the minority experience.

Overall, the consensus from owners is that the Fortera HL delivers a good balance of treadlife, all-season capability, and value for the money spent. While it may not provide the ultimate luxury ride, the Fortera is praised as a capable, durable, and affordable touring tire for most drivers’ needs. With proper rotation and inflation, many owners have been able to get 4-5 years of service from a set.