Finding a reliable all-season tire that won’t drain your wallet feels nearly impossible these days. With premium tires easily exceeding $200 per corner, many of us are left wondering if budget options can actually deliver safe, comfortable performance.
That’s exactly why I decided to put the Kelly Edge Touring Plus through rigorous real-world testing. As someone who’s been reviewing tires for years (you can check out my comprehensive Kelly tires review for more context on the brand), I wanted to see if this affordable touring tire lives up to its promises.
The short answer? I was genuinely surprised by what this tire delivered for the price point.
- Budget-friendly all-season touring tire backed by Goodyear’s manufacturing
- Impressive ride comfort and low road noise for the price
- Solid wet traction with good hydroplaning resistance
- Dry handling is predictable but not sporty
- Light snow capability is adequate for occasional winter conditions
- Best suited for sedans, minivans, and small crossovers
- Excellent value for daily commuters and highway drivers
What Is the Kelly Edge Touring Plus?
Before diving into my testing experience, let me give you some background on this tire and where it fits in the market. The Kelly Edge Touring Plus is an all-season touring tire designed primarily for sedans, coupes, minivans, and small crossovers.
Kelly is actually a subsidiary of Goodyear, which means these tires benefit from Goodyear’s research, development, and manufacturing capabilities. This relationship is crucial because it means you’re getting quality construction at a lower price point than Goodyear’s mainline offerings.
The Edge Touring Plus sits in Kelly’s touring tire category, emphasizing ride comfort, quiet operation, and long tread life over aggressive handling or high-performance capabilities. It’s designed for everyday drivers who prioritize comfort and value.
Key Features and Technology
Kelly has incorporated several notable features into the Edge Touring Plus design. The tire uses a computer-optimized tread pattern with continuous center ribs that promote even wear and stable highway handling.
The compound formulation is designed to balance traction with longevity, utilizing what Kelly calls their “EdgeTec Groove Technology.” This features tapered grooves that help channel water away from the contact patch while maintaining tread block rigidity.
The tire also includes multiple sipes throughout the tread pattern. These thin slits in the rubber help with wet traction and provide biting edges for light snow conditions.
My Testing Setup and Conditions
I tested the Kelly Edge Touring Plus on my 2019 Honda Accord in size 225/50R17. This is a popular size for mid-size sedans and represents a common application for this tire.
My testing took place across various driving conditions here in the Midwest United States. I experienced everything from hot summer highway driving to fall rain storms and even a couple of early-season snow events.
I made sure to evaluate the tires on multiple road surfaces including freshly paved highways, rough secondary roads, concrete interstates, and standard suburban streets. This gave me a comprehensive picture of how the tire performs in real-world scenarios.
Installation and First Impressions
The installation process was straightforward at my local tire shop. The tires balanced easily without requiring excessive wheel weights, which is always a positive sign of good manufacturing consistency.
Right from the first drive, I noticed the ride quality was noticeably quieter than my previous tires. The Edge Touring Plus absorbed small road imperfections without transmitting harshness into the cabin.
Initial handling felt stable and predictable. The steering response was appropriately weighted for a touring tire—not overly light or excessively heavy.
Dry Performance Testing
The majority of my driving naturally occurred in dry conditions, so I have extensive experience with how the Kelly Edge Touring Plus handles on sun-baked pavement. Overall, I found the dry performance to be solidly competent without being exceptional.
Highway Cruising
On the highway, the Edge Touring Plus really shines. I spend considerable time on interstate highways, and these tires delivered excellent straight-line stability even at sustained 75+ mph cruising speeds.
Lane changes felt controlled and confident. The tires didn’t exhibit any wandering or vague feedback that can plague cheaper touring tires.
What impressed me most was the consistent feel even after hours of highway driving. Some budget tires can feel different as they heat up, but the Kelly maintained its composed character throughout long road trips.
Cornering and Handling
Let me be clear: this is not a performance tire, and Kelly doesn’t market it as one. That said, the Edge Touring Plus handles everyday cornering situations with reasonable confidence.
During spirited driving on twisty back roads, I found the tires to be predictable rather than exciting. The sidewalls have some flex under hard cornering, which is typical for comfort-oriented touring tires.
The grip limit is clearly communicated through progressive feedback. You’ll feel the tires beginning to push wide (understeer) well before any sudden loss of traction, which is exactly what you want in a family-oriented tire.
Braking Performance
Dry braking performance met my expectations for this category of tire. Emergency stops felt controlled and confident, with the ABS engaging smoothly when I conducted panic-stop tests in a controlled environment.
During normal daily driving, the brakes felt responsive and predictable. I never experienced any moments of concern during regular commuting situations.
Wet Performance Testing
Wet traction is where many budget tires fail to deliver, so I paid particular attention to how the Kelly Edge Touring Plus performed in rainy conditions. I’m pleased to report that it exceeded my expectations in this critical area.
Light to Moderate Rain
In typical rainy conditions, the Edge Touring Plus performed admirably. The tire maintained good grip during acceleration, cornering, and braking on wet surfaces.
I noticed the tread pattern does an effective job of channeling water away from the contact patch. During steady rain, the tires felt planted and predictable, giving me confidence to maintain normal driving speeds.
Highway on-ramps in the rain are often a good test of wet cornering capability. The Kelly handled these situations without drama, maintaining its line through sweeping curves.
Heavy Rain and Standing Water
Heavy downpours presented more of a challenge, as they do for most tires. However, the Edge Touring Plus maintained its composure better than I expected for a budget-priced option.
Hydroplaning resistance was good but not exceptional. I could feel the tires beginning to ride up on water at highway speeds during heavy rain, prompting me to reduce speed appropriately.
The key takeaway is that the tire provides adequate feedback so you know when to slow down. It doesn’t suddenly lose grip without warning.
Wet Braking
Wet braking distances were reasonable for a tire in this price category. I wouldn’t call them class-leading, but they inspired adequate confidence during my testing period.
In emergency wet braking situations, the tires allowed the ABS to work effectively. The stopping distances were predictable and consistent across multiple tests.
Light Snow and Winter Performance
I want to be clear upfront: the Kelly Edge Touring Plus is an all-season tire, not a winter tire. However, it does carry the M+S (Mud and Snow) rating, indicating some capability in light winter conditions.
Light Snow Capability
During a couple of early-season snow events, I tested the Edge Touring Plus in accumulations of a few inches. The tire performed adequately for getting around town but definitely required more caution than a dedicated winter tire.
The sipes in the tread pattern provided reasonable grip on packed snow. I was able to navigate residential streets and parking lots without getting stuck.
Acceleration on snow required a gentle touch with the throttle. Aggressive inputs would break traction, but modulating the pedal allowed for steady progress.
Cold Weather Performance
In cold but dry conditions (temperatures in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit), the tire compound remained reasonably pliable. I didn’t notice dramatic degradation in grip compared to warmer conditions.
That said, if you regularly experience harsh winters with significant snowfall, I strongly recommend dedicated winter tires. The Edge Touring Plus should be considered a three-season tire in severe winter climates.
Ride Comfort and Noise
As a touring tire, comfort is arguably the most important performance category for the Edge Touring Plus. I’m happy to report that this is where the tire truly excels for its price point.
Road Noise
Cabin noise levels impressed me from day one and continued to please throughout my testing period. The tire runs remarkably quiet on smooth pavement, rivaling tires that cost significantly more.
On rougher surfaces, some additional noise is noticeable, but it never becomes intrusive. Highway drone is minimal, making long road trips more pleasant.
Compared to other budget all-season tires I’ve tested, the Edge Touring Plus is easily among the quietest options available at this price point.
Ride Quality
The Edge Touring Plus does an excellent job of isolating occupants from road imperfections. Small bumps and cracks are absorbed without harsh feedback, and larger impacts are well-damped.
The tire doesn’t feel floaty or disconnected, which can be a problem with overly soft tires. There’s a nice balance between comfort and controlled feel.
After several days of driving on rough secondary roads, I appreciated how the tires took the edge off poor pavement without completely masking what the road surface was doing.
Tread Life and Durability
Assessing long-term tread life is challenging within a limited testing window, but I can share my observations about wear patterns and initial durability indicators.
Wear Patterns
After my extensive testing period, the tires showed even wear across the tread face. This is a positive sign for long-term durability, assuming proper inflation and alignment.
I rotated the tires according to the recommended schedule and kept them inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. Following these basic maintenance practices should maximize tread life.
Kelly backs the Edge Touring Plus with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, which indicates confidence in the tire’s longevity. This warranty coverage is competitive for the touring tire category.
Build Quality
The overall construction quality of the Edge Touring Plus appears solid. The sidewalls don’t show any signs of cracking or deterioration, and the tread blocks remain firmly attached.
I haven’t experienced any issues with air retention—the tires hold pressure well between regular checks. This consistency suggests good bead sealing and overall construction integrity.
Kelly Edge Touring Plus vs. Competitors
To put the Edge Touring Plus in context, let’s compare it to some popular alternatives in the budget touring tire segment. This comparison table highlights key differences:
| Feature | Kelly Edge Touring Plus | Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring | Hankook Kinergy PT | Firestone All Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range (205/55R16) | $85-100 | $110-130 | $90-110 | $80-95 |
| Treadwear Warranty | 65,000 miles | 70,000 miles | 60,000 miles | 65,000 miles |
| Dry Performance | Good | Very Good | Good | Good |
| Wet Performance | Good | Excellent | Good | Average |
| Ride Comfort | Very Good | Very Good | Good | Good |
| Noise Level | Quiet | Very Quiet | Moderate | Moderate |
| Snow Performance | Adequate | Good | Adequate | Fair |
How It Compares
The Kelly Edge Touring Plus offers the best value proposition when you prioritize ride comfort and quiet operation on a tight budget. It undercuts most competitors on price while delivering comparable or superior comfort.
If wet performance is your primary concern, the Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring justifies its higher price with noticeably better rain traction. However, for typical driving in mixed conditions, the Kelly holds its own.
Against the Firestone All Season, which is similarly priced, the Kelly offers better comfort, lower noise, and slightly better wet traction. It’s the clear winner in this head-to-head matchup.
Who Should Buy the Kelly Edge Touring Plus?
Based on my extensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Kelly Edge Touring Plus for specific types of drivers and applications. Here’s who will benefit most:
Ideal Buyers
- Budget-conscious commuters: If you drive a sedan or small crossover primarily for commuting and errands, this tire delivers excellent value
- Highway cruisers: Drivers who spend significant time on interstates will appreciate the quiet ride and stable handling
- Comfort seekers: If ride quality and noise suppression are priorities, the Edge Touring Plus punches above its weight class
- Second-car applications: Perfect for family sedans, minivans, or vehicles that don’t need high-performance tires
- Mild climate drivers: Those in regions with minimal winter weather will find this tire meets year-round needs
Who Should Look Elsewhere
- Enthusiast drivers: If spirited handling matters to you, consider a grand touring or performance all-season tire
- Severe winter climate residents: Those regularly facing snow and ice need dedicated winter tires or all-weather alternatives with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating
- Heavy vehicle owners: Trucks and large SUVs require tires designed for their weight and load requirements
- Maximum wet traction seekers: If you frequently drive in heavy rain, premium all-season tires offer measurably better wet performance
Pricing and Value Analysis
The Kelly Edge Touring Plus typically retails between $85 and $130 per tire, depending on size. This positions it firmly in the budget category while offering performance that rivals mid-tier options.
Where to Buy
You can find the Kelly Edge Touring Plus at major tire retailers including Discount Tire, Tire Rack, Walmart Auto Care Centers, and many independent tire shops. Availability through Goodyear dealers is also common.
I recommend shopping around and checking for manufacturer rebates, which Kelly periodically offers. Buying a set of four during a promotional period can save $40-80 on the total purchase.
Value Proposition
When I consider the comfort level, reasonable wet traction, and solid warranty coverage, the Kelly Edge Touring Plus represents outstanding value. You’re getting Goodyear-affiliated quality at a fraction of the price.
The 65,000-mile treadwear warranty provides peace of mind, and based on my wear observations, achieving that mileage seems realistic with proper maintenance.
Maintenance Tips for Maximum Performance
To get the most out of your Kelly Edge Touring Plus tires, follow these maintenance guidelines that I recommend for all touring tires:
Inflation
Check tire pressure at least monthly and before long trips. Use the pressure specified on your vehicle’s door placard, not the maximum listed on the tire sidewall.
Proper inflation maximizes tread life, fuel economy, and handling performance. Under-inflation causes excessive shoulder wear and reduces fuel efficiency.
Rotation
Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,500 miles or with every other oil change. Consistent rotation promotes even wear and extends tread life.
The Edge Touring Plus uses a symmetric tread pattern, so any rotation pattern suitable for your vehicle will work properly.
Alignment
Have your alignment checked if you notice uneven wear patterns or the vehicle pulling to one side. Misalignment accelerates tread wear and compromises handling.
I recommend an alignment check when installing new tires and annually thereafter, especially after hitting significant potholes or curbs.
Final Verdict: Is the Kelly Edge Touring Plus Worth Buying?
After extensive real-world testing across diverse conditions, I can confidently say the Kelly Edge Touring Plus earns my recommendation for budget-conscious drivers seeking a comfortable, quiet all-season tire.
Strengths
The tire’s standout qualities include exceptional ride comfort for the price, impressively low road noise, and competent wet traction. The Goodyear-backed construction provides confidence in quality and durability.
The 65,000-mile warranty adds value and suggests Kelly’s confidence in the product. For everyday driving applications, this tire delivers more than its modest price suggests.
Weaknesses
The Edge Touring Plus isn’t without limitations. Handling feels soft compared to sportier alternatives, and extreme wet weather capability falls short of premium options.
Winter performance is limited to light snow situations, and drivers in harsh climates should consider alternative solutions for cold-weather months.
Bottom Line
If your priorities include ride comfort, quiet operation, and value—and you don’t need high-performance handling or severe winter capability—the Kelly Edge Touring Plus deserves serious consideration.
In my experience, it represents one of the best values in the budget touring tire category. For everyday commuting and family transportation duties, it exceeds expectations while keeping more money in your wallet.
I recommend the Kelly Edge Touring Plus for most everyday drivers who want a reliable, comfortable tire without premium pricing. It’s proof that you don’t always have to spend top dollar to get a quality product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus a good tire for daily commuting?
I’ve found the Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus to be an excellent choice for daily commuters who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. It delivers a smooth, quiet ride on highways and city streets, and the all-season compound handles light rain and occasional wet roads confidently. For US drivers averaging 12,000-15,000 miles per year, this tire offers solid value.
How long do Kelly Edge Touring Plus tires last?
The Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus comes with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, which is impressive for a budget-friendly touring tire. In my experience, with proper rotation every 5,000-7,000 miles and correct inflation, many drivers report getting close to or exceeding that mileage. Real-world longevity depends on your driving habits and road conditions across different US states.
How much do Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus tires cost?
Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus tires typically range from $80 to $130 per tire depending on the size, with popular sizes like 215/55R17 averaging around $95-$110. You can often find rebates through Goodyear retailers since Kelly is a Goodyear-owned brand. I recommend checking Discount Tire, Tire Rack, or Walmart for competitive US pricing and installation deals.
How does the Kelly Edge Touring Plus perform in rain and wet conditions?
The Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus handles wet roads reasonably well for a budget touring tire, thanks to its circumferential grooves that channel water away from the contact patch. I noticed confident grip during moderate rain driving, though it’s not as aggressive as premium wet-performance tires. For typical US rainstorms and occasional wet commutes, it provides adequate hydroplaning resistance.
Is the Kelly Edge Touring Plus good for light snow driving?
While the Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus carries the M+S (mud and snow) rating, it’s designed primarily for mild winter conditions rather than heavy snow. I’d feel comfortable using it for occasional dustings and cold temperatures in southern or mid-Atlantic US states. However, if you live in northern states with harsh winters, I’d recommend dedicated winter tires for better safety.
Kelly Edge Touring Plus vs Goodyear Assurance: Which is the better value?
The Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus offers similar technology to Goodyear Assurance tires at a lower price point since Kelly is Goodyear’s budget brand. I’ve found the Kelly provides about 85-90% of the Assurance’s performance for roughly 20-30% less money. For budget-conscious US drivers who want Goodyear engineering without the premium price, the Kelly Edge Touring Plus is the smarter buy.
What vehicles are Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus tires best suited for?
The Kelly Edge Touring A/S Plus fits a wide range of sedans, crossovers, and minivans popular with US families, including the Toyota Camry, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Chrysler Pacifica. It’s designed for standard passenger vehicles rather than performance cars or trucks. I’d recommend it for drivers prioritizing comfort, long tread life, and affordability over sporty handling.
