Since November 2012 it has become UK Law for tyre manufacturers to grade each tyre model and size by three categories. This is to give you an indication of the tyre's performance and allows you to make an informed descision when making a purchase. It also helps the enviroment and increase levels of road safety.

The categories are fuel consumption, wet grip and noise emission. Obviously there are more deciding factors when picking a tyre (such as dry grip, aesthetics, quality e.t.c.), but this gives you a good basis from which to start from.

Fuel Consumption:

This is graded from A to G, with A being the best and G as the worst. The fuel consumption is determined by the rolling resistance and can provide as much as 7.5% difference in fuel consumption from grade A to G.

Wet Grip:

This is also graded from A to G, with A being the best and G as the worst. The wet grip is determined by the stopping distance when driving at 80km/h. Between each class there is a difference of 3-6 metres. Classes D and G are not used.

Noise Emission:

This is the level of road noise that the tyre emits in use in decibels. It is also graded in 3 levels as shown by the sound wave image, with 1 bar showing as the quietest and 3 bars as the loudest. It's worth noting that being exposed to levels in excess of 80dB can lead to health complications.