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DunlopDirezza ZIII
  • DunlopDirezza ZIII
  • DunlopDirezza ZIII
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The Direzza ZIII is Dunlop's Extreme Performance Summer tire designed for the drivers of sports cars, performance sedans and track day vehicles who are looking for near motorsports levels of traction and handling in a tire that can be driven on the street, in addition to autocross, drifting and track day events. Tuned for maximum performance in warm, dry and damp conditions, the Direzza ZIII is not intended to be serviced, stored, nor driven in near- and below-freezing temperatures, through snow or on ice.

Continuing the evolution of Dunlop's Extreme Performance Summer tire line, the Direzza ZIII utilizes the company's latest high-performance compound, which features motorsports-derived polymers that accomplish the normally conflicting goals of enhanced grip and enhanced wear characteristics. The updated tread pattern features a wider center rib and lower void ratio to put more rubber on the ground in the contact patch, and the reshaped tread profile changes the shape of the footprint to ensure more uniform contact pressure while turning, aiding grip and improving wear. The two main, circumferential grooves allow water to flow through the footprint to resist hydroplaning, but heavy rain and standing water may still present challenges to longitudinal and lateral hydroplaning resistance, so drivers should take care and drive cautiously at reduced speeds in these conditions.

The internal construction of the Direzza ZIII is designed for optimized durability and maximum handling response. The two-ply polyester casing sits beneath two wide, high-strength steel belts, which help stabilize the footprint. Two polyamide cap plies provide reinforcement for enhanced control of the contact patch and high-speed durability.

Note: Tires exposed to temperatures of 20 degrees F (-7 degrees C) or lower must be permitted to gradually return to temperatures of at least 40 degrees F (5 degrees C) for at least 24 hours before they are flexed in any manner, such as by adjusting inflation pressures, mounting them on wheels, or using them to support, roll or drive a vehicle.

Flexing of the specialized rubber compounds used in Extreme Performance Summer tires during cold-weather use can result in irreversible compound cracking. Compound cracking occurs as the result of improper use or storage, and Dunlop's warranty specifically excludes tires exhibiting this condition from coverage. Any tires exhibiting compound cracking must be replaced.

Tire Rack Test Results Dunlop Direzza ZIII

Tire Rack Road Course Test: Extreme Performance Summer Tires 2022 (11:17)

Tire Rack’s testing program has provided expert advice on tires since 1995. In 2022, we added a new element to our annual calendar – testing on a 2.1-mile road course in southwest Michigan! So, sit back and enjoy the first of many Tire Rack track tests, this time, with customer favorite, Extreme Performance Summer tires.

Read the Full Test Report

Ratings Charts & Reviews DunlopDirezza ZIII

Tire Category: Extreme Performance Summer

Consumer Surveys

 
Best in Category
Miles Reported
Recommended
Treadwear
Dunlop Direzza ZIII
Good
96%
517K
8.6 - Excellent
7.1 - Good
7.0 Hydroplaning Resistance
7.2 Wet Traction
9.3 - Excellent
9.4 Corner Stability
9.4 Dry Traction
9.3 Steering Response
N/A
N/A Light Snow Traction
N/A Deep Snow Traction
N/A Ice Traction
7.6 - Good
7.8 Ride Quality
7.4 Noise
7.2 - Good

Customers Say

Feedback patterns show the Dunlop Sport Maxx RT delivers excellent dry traction with scores often reaching 9-10, paired with strong wet performance highlighted by reliable hydroplaning resistance. Comfort receives high marks for ride smoothness, though some note inconsistent noise levels. Treadwear ratings vary widely, with many praising longevity in spirited driving scenarios but others reporting rapid wear under aggressive use. As a max performance summer tire, it excels in its intended conditions, balancing precise handling and grip while maintaining acceptable comfort for most drivers.

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Customers Like:

81 customers mention "Wet Traction"

  • 72 positive
  • 9 negative

Most customers give the Dunlop Sport Maxx RT wet traction scores of 8-10, praising its confident grip and hydroplaning resistance. While a few lower scores note challenges in heavy rain, performance remains strong for a Max Performance Summer tire.

July 27, 2014 (Verified Purchase)

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

...Wet performance is really good, I have driven the car in extremely heavy rain storms and had no issues maintaining traction and did not experience any hydroplaning at and above highway speeds.

These tires came on my new 2015 STi and, while they are my first summer performance tire, they are a fantastic tire. They provide a great amount of grip in the dry at/above highway speeds and while carving down windy back roads.

Wet performance is also really good, I have driven the car in two extremely heavy rain storms and had no issues maintaining traction and did not experience any hydroplaning at and above highway speeds.

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru WRX STi
Miles Driven on Tires: 3,600
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: GAINESVILLE, VA
Driving Style: Spirited
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November 07, 2017 (Verified Purchase)

3.9 out of 5 Star Rating
3.9 out of 5

...Great in rain, no grip issues, very confident in the wet...

These came standard on my 2017 WRX.

/Pros/
-Fantastic cornering performance and grip
My car and these tires have seen a good amount of spirited runs in the hills , the grip is amazing for stock tires.
-Great sidewalls and response
- Great in rain, no grip issues, very confident in the wet.

/Cons/
-Loud
Maybe it's just my experience but these tires are very loud on highway
-wear
17k miles on mine and I will need a replacement in a few thousand. Take in mind these do see lots of hard driving.

Vehicle: 2017 Subaru WRX
Miles Driven on Tires: 17,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: BIGFORK, MT
Driving Style: Spirited
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88 customers mention "Dry Traction"

  • 83 positive
  • 5 negative

Most customers rate dry traction as excellent with scores of 9s and 10s, highlighting responsive handling and reliable grip. The Sport Maxx RT delivers confident dry performance expected from a Max Performance Summer tire.

October 09, 2016 (Verified Purchase)

3.6 out of 5 Star Rating
3.6 out of 5

...Dry traction is amazing. I now feel like Lewis Hamilton behind the wheel of my car...

The Dunlap Sport Maxx RT inspires confidence. Steering is more responsive and braking is better controlled. Wet traction is acceptable, but I have this tire mounted on an all wheel drive luxury sedan (2004 Mercedes S500 4Matic), so wet performance is always well-managed. Dry traction is amazing. I now feel like Lewis Hamilton behind the wheel of my car. I'm curious about the Michelin Pilot Super Sport, but I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this tire to others.

Vehicle: 2004 Mercedes-Benz S500 4Matic Sedan Sport Pkg
Miles Driven on Tires: 500
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: KYLE, TX
Driving Style: Spirited
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November 06, 2016 (Verified Purchase)

3.7 out of 5 Star Rating
3.7 out of 5

...For the driver looking to have an all-around tire that is good wet, dry and the occasional blast down the on-ramp these will make a great choice... At about the 1/2 way mark I started to notice the stability in cornering was diminishing, could feel the tires wandering a bit on the edge of traction...

Having purchased the car with these tires on them, I must say I'm more impressed than I thought I would have been with a stock tire. These tires were trustworthy, rugged and performed great! I expected these tires to run below the wear bars before the 15k mark, but to my surprise, even with a heavy, relatively powerful car, they've hung on. The tread wear has been amazing, no tread edge feathering or chop. I did do an annual alignment about 1/2 through the tires as recommended per the manufacture. Even through a few auto-x events where I tortured these things they didn't show more than a little outer tread block scratching and heat marks, which proves their durability. Also, I had an unfortunate road incident where a piece of tar/concrete had shot out into the road damaging two of my wheels. The tires survived the collision with only a minor chunk missing from the "rim protector" area.
They aren't the quietest tire and they're heavy but more than "good". I suspect the price of these tires is the way it is because it's considered and "OEM" tire which is one of the reasons I won't buy them again. For the driver looking to have an all-around tire that is good wet, dry and the occasional blast down the on-ramp these will make a great choice. For the spirited/experienced driver, I would recommend another look. At about the 1/2 way mark I started to notice the stability in cornering was diminishing, could feel the tires wandering a bit on the edge of traction. They're heavy too, which I believe is a reason for the less than stellar cornering response at moderate to high speeds. The response is great for normal city speeds because of the rugged construction but its reason for suffer later.

Pros:
Great dry traction
Rugged build
Great wear characteristics (balance/alignment)
Trustworthy in wet conditions

Cons:
Heavy (inconsistent steering response and doesn't help the mpg's)
They run a little skinny compared to competitors
Ride quality is a little rough

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru WRX STi
Miles Driven on Tires: 15,302
Driving Conditions: Mostly City
Location: WILMINGTON, NC
Driving Style: Spirited
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87 customers mention "Ride Quality"

  • 61 positive
  • 26 negative

Customers praise the Sport Maxx RT's comfort, with most scoring 9s and 10s for ride quality and noise. Scores between 7-8 indicate solid performance, delivering the smooth, refined feel expected from max performance summer tires.

April 23, 2025 (Verified Purchase)

4.3 out of 5 Star Rating
4.3 out of 5

...I've had Dunlops before, not usually my first choice but these are a comfortable ride and sticky at 240A for a 235/35/19...

Was able to pick these tires up on closeout for a really good deal, being they were old stock for around $96ea. I've had Dunlops before, not usually my first choice but these are a comfortable ride and sticky at 240A for a 235/35/19. Only thing noticeable is they are better on the warmer days, we've had a few cool spring mornings, and left over sand from the winter here in New England (CT) and traction loss is minimal but was noticed a few times. One thing I can say is the initial tread depth was better than the OE Bridgestones I had or to my knowledge. If they were on a sale like this again I would probably get them again if the deal was as good, a set of 4 for the price of 1 tire was a great deal. One other nice feature was they have a lip that goes over the edge of the rim, only downfall was they must of had trouble mounting them because they had so much tire lube on them when I received then and one wheel had a deep knick near that lip protector, but costumer service was excellent I sent them pictures and they took some money off for the damage and a credit for the price of a car wash to get the install lube off. Other than that another good purchase from Tire Rack

Vehicle: 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI 235/35-19
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,500
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: MERIDEN, CT
Driving Style: Spirited
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March 27, 2018 (Verified Purchase)

4.4 out of 5 Star Rating
4.4 out of 5

...It's easy to place the car precisely in corners, steer with precision, and push the limits, yet it absorbs much of the road's irregular surfaces and makes for a comfortable every day ride. Which is saying something because the 2015 WRX has a pretty stiff suspension - this tire helps mellow that a bit...

Best OEM tire ever! While there are stickier tires out there, and I've driven them, this blends good road manners, quiet operation and performance really well. If you want a tire that is part touring and part track inspired, this is a great option. It's easy to place the car precisely in corners, steer with precision, and push the limits, yet it absorbs much of the road's irregular surfaces and makes for a comfortable every day ride. Which is saying something because the 2015 WRX has a pretty stiff suspension - this tire helps mellow that a bit. Tire is predictable and inspires confidence. As noted, if you want more performance, look to Dunlop's extreme performance like the Zii or in this category, the Michelin Pilot, but if you want a blend of comfort, quiet operation, with a very capable tire, this is a great option. Highly recommended, unless max grip is your first priority.

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru WRX
Miles Driven on Tires: 15,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: WATERBURY CENTER, VT
Driving Style: Spirited
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April 25, 2014

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

...They are extremely comfortable for drive and noise levels are very low compared to my previous set of Kumho's... Driving on bumpy roads is no challenge at al. Tire goes pretty well over the bump's without any noticeable discomfort...

So far so good for my new set of Dunlop Sport Maxx RT summer tires. They are extremely comfortable for drive and noise levels are very low compared to my previous set of Kumho's. Wet traction is just like in dry conditions: in one word - superb. Driving on bumpy roads is no challenge at al. Tire goes pretty well over the bump's without any noticeable discomfort. Hope those tires could last somewhat 35000-40000km with proper tire rotation on every 10 000km as recommended by Dunlop.

Vehicle: 1999 Mitsubishi Galant ES V6
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly City
Location: Sofia, BG
Driving Style: Average
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67 customers mention "Treadwear"

  • 43 positive
  • 24 negative

Many customers rate treadwear highly with scores of 9s and 10s, noting impressive longevity for a max performance summer tire. While most scores are 7-10, some report mixed experiences with lower ratings.

May 20, 2015

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

I wish was more diligent in rotating them so I could have gotten more mileage out of my fronts, the rears still look like 60-70% of tread left... Above average tread-wear for the rating, but still a gummy summer tire.

I really enjoyed these tires! I wish was more diligent in rotating them so I could have gotten more mileage out of my fronts, the rears still look like 60-70% of tread left.

The Good:
1) They were fantastic on the strip (FWD 330whp/300wtq car) enabling easy 2.0 60's.
2) Perfectly quiet on the road/highway.
3) Unbelievable wet grip/stability.
4) Excellent dry traction both launching the car, and braking.
5) Above average tread-wear for the rating, but still a gummy summer tire.
6) Solid low temp performance. Never had any issues with stability or control in low temp (20deg).

Cons:
1) Like all summer tires avoid snow/freezing rain. These were quite possibly 100% useless in even a hair of snow on a FWD car.

Vehicle: 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V
Miles Driven on Tires: 10,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: MOUNT LAUREL, NJ
Driving Style: Spirited
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June 17, 2017

4.4 out of 5 Star Rating
4.4 out of 5

...I was very happy to get 30k+ out of mine and found the treadwear to be more than ample this type of performance. I strongly suspect those giving feedback on poor treadwear were unforgiving versus spirited in driving style.

OEM tire which performed very well for me but was rotated often and pressure checked weekly. Outstanding dry traction and wet for a max summer tire. Quiet even when breaking traction (no barking, squeeling or chirping under duress). Road noise much more pronounced after they hit 20k+ miles. I was very happy to get 30k+ out of mine and found the treadwear to be more than ample this type of performance. I strongly suspect those giving feedback on poor treadwear were "unforgiving" versus "spirited" in driving style.

Vehicle: 2016 Subaru WRX
Miles Driven on Tires: 34,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: ARLINGTON, TX
Driving Style: Spirited
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December 06, 2017 (Verified Purchase)

3.5 out of 5 Star Rating
3.5 out of 5

...Push them too hard (on track or autocross) and you WILL shear off tread blocks. I would not recommend these for Motorsport...

Pros: This tire has EXCELLENT treadwear, great grip, and laudable cold weather/wet weather performance. It's a great all-arounder and a good choice for OEM for the WRX. You can live with these in most conditions year round. Great tires at 7/10ths of the car.

Cons: Push them too hard (on track or autocross) and you WILL shear off tread blocks. I would not recommend these for Motorsport. They're only OKAY in snow...for the price get a dedicated set of snow tires and wheels if you see more than 12" of snow a year. Go with a higher performance track tire if you run more than one even a year.

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru WRX
Miles Driven on Tires: 35,000
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: CHARLES TOWN, WV
Driving Style: Spirited
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Consumer Reviews

Media Gallery

Testing Extreme Performance Summer Tires 2019: Dunlop Direzza ZIII(01:17)

The world is waiting to find out how the newest competitor in Extreme Performance Summer compares to the best in the category.

The Dunlop Direzza ZIII is a well-known, top performer in Extreme Performance Summer, so we tested it against the newest and best to see where it stands.

Read the Full Test Report

Comparing the Newest and Best Extreme Performance Summer Tires(05:28)

Today's Extreme Performance Summer tires deliver traction and handling that just a few years ago was only matched by true race tires. The category continues to expand, but it seems we have reached a performance plateau. To see if one of the two new Extreme Performance Summer tires can leapfrog the established leaders, we put them to the test.

Read the Full Test Report

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