225/50R17

Auto Bild 2024-2025: All-Season Tire Test R16

AUTO BILD's Ultimate Test: 37 All-Season Tires Put to the Challenge

Seasonal tire changes are a hassle many drivers are eager to ditch. The costs of swapping, storing, and cleaning add up—not to mention the time and stress involved.That's why all-season tires are becoming the smart choice. Expectations are high: they must grip confidently on dry roads, command wet surfaces, tackle snow and ice—all without increasing fuel consumption. And let's keep the drive thrilling with precise handling.

But with so many options, finding the perfect tire can feel overwhelming. That's where AUTO BILD steps in. They put 37 all-season tires in size 225/50 R 17 through their paces. Out of these, 15 top performers advanced beyond the qualifiers into the main event, facing 16 rigorous tests.

List of models tested:

Breaking Down the Costs

AUTO BILD evaluated the costs, rolling resistance, and mileage of each tire model to give you a clear understanding of their value. The Linglong Grip Master 4S tops the chart with the lowest price per 1,000 kilometers, followed by Toyo and Dunlop, while Pirelli finds itself at the bottom in this category.

Rolling Resistance: The Key to Fuel Efficiency
Rolling Resistance: The Key to Fuel Efficiency

But it's not all smooth driving for Linglong. In the rolling resistance test—a critical factor for fuel efficiency—it ranks last. Here, Toyo takes the lead, with Michelin and Continental close behind.

Rolling Resistance

Toyo
1-
Continental
2+
Michelin
2
Goodyear
2
Dunlop
2
Kleber
2
Giti
2
GT Radial
2
BFGoodrich
2
Viking
2
Vredestein
2-
Pirelli
2-
Bridgestone
3+
Kumho
3
Linglong
3-

Info! High rolling resistance, rated 3+ or worse, increases fuel consumption, leading to a downgrade. The top rating is 1+, meaning the least resistance and best efficiency.

Mileage

Michelin
1+
Dunlop
1+
Toyo
1+
Vredestein
1-
Bridgestone
1-
Continental
2
Kleber
2
BFGoodrich
2
Linglong
2
Goodyear
2-
Viking
3+
Pirelli
3+
Giti
3+
GT Radial
3+
Kumho
3

Info! Tires rated 3+ or worse indicate low durability and shorter lifespan. 1+ represents the longest-lasting performance.


When it comes to longevity, the Dunlop All Season 2 stands out, delivering an impressive 67,410 kilometers and securing the top spot for mileage. On the other end, the Kumho Solus 4S HA32+ hits its limit after just under 40,000 kilometers.

Conquering the Snow

When it comes to snowy conditions, winter tires are the gold standard. To see how the tested all-season tires measure up, AUTO BILD included a winter tire in every discipline for a head-to-head comparison.

All-Season Tires on Snow: Proving Their Worth
All-Season Tires on Snow: Proving Their Worth

Surprisingly, the Continental AllSeasonContact 2 and Michelin CrossClimate 2 outperformed the winter tire in handling tests. The shocks didn't end there. In the slalom, five tires—Michelin, Kleber, Continental, BF Goodrich, and Pirelli—delivered better results than the winter tire.

Snow Braking

Giti
1-
GT Radial
1-
Vredestein
2+
Michelin
2+
Goodyear
2+
Kleber
2+
BFGoodrich
2+
Kumho
2+
Continental
2
Dunlop
2
Viking
2
Viking
3+
Pirelli
3+
Toyo
3+
Bridgestone
3

Info! Tires rated 3+ or worse are downgraded. The highest score is 1+, indicating the best braking performance.

Snow Handling

Continental
1-
Michelin
1-
Goodyear
2+
BFGoodrich
2+
Kleber
2
Vredestein
2-
Pirelli
2-
Giti
2-
GT Radial
2-
Dunlop
3+
Kumho
3+
Bridgestone
3
Viking
3-
Toyo
3-
Linglong
3-

Info! A rating of 3+ or worse results in a downgrade. 1+ is the best, showing superior control and cornering.


Yet, winter tires generally hold an advantage over all-season models. This is especially clear in braking distances: differences of up to four meters were observed between winter and all-season tires. That might not sound like much, but it can determine whether you stop before or after a crosswalk.

Performance on Wet Roads

Aquaplaning Challenge: Wet Grip Tested
Aquaplaning Challenge: Wet Grip Tested

When rain hits and temperatures climb, AUTO BILD's 15 all-season challengers go head-to-head with a summer tire. Except for one instance, the summer tire consistently outperforms the all-season options. Only in the straight-line aquaplaning test does the Pirelli all-season tire surpass the summer tire, delaying the onset of hydroplaning.

Wet Braking

Bridgestone
1-
Continental
2
Goodyear
2
Pirelli
2
Vredestein
2-
Viking
2-
Michelin
3+
Dunlop
3+
GT Radial
3+
Kleber
3
Giti
3
BFGoodrich
3
Kumho
3
Toyo
3
Linglong
3-

Info! Tires rated 3+ or worse are downgraded. The highest score is 1+, indicating the best braking performance.

Wet Handling

Vredestein
1-
Continental
1-
Pirelli
1-
Giti
2+
GT Radial
2+
Bridgestone
2+
Goodyear
2
Dunlop
2
Kumho
2
Michelin
2-
Kleber
2-
Viking
2-
BFGoodrich
3+
Toyo
3-
Linglong
3-

Info! A rating of 3+ or worse results in a downgrade. 1+ is the best, showing superior control and cornering.


Braking on wet surfaces is a critical test where most all-season tires lag behind. The summer tire comes to a stop three meters sooner than the best all-season competitor. At the back of the pack, Linglong's tire requires over twelve additional meters to halt. These aren't just statistics—they represent important moments that can make all the difference in real-world driving.

Dominating Dry Roads: The All-Season Challenge

When it comes to braking on dry roads, all-season tires often don't lead the pack—and there's a solid reason why. To maximize grip on snowy surfaces, these tires are crafted with softer rubber compounds and feature more sipes in their tread blocks. This design enhances winter traction but extends braking distances when the roads are dry.

Braking Performance: Summer Tires Still Lead
Braking Performance: Summer Tires Still Lead

In AUTO BILD's rigorous tests, even the top-performing Bridgestone Turanza AllSeason 6 required nearly two extra meters to come to a stop compared to the summer tire benchmark. The disparity grows sharper with the lowest-ranked tires, stretching to almost nine meters—a critical difference in real-world driving.

Dry Braking

Pirelli
1-
Bridgestone
1-
Michelin
2+
Kleber
2+
BFGoodrich
2+
Vredestein
2
Continental
2
Toyo
2
Linglong
2
Goodyear
2-
Dunlop
2-
Giti
2-
GT Radial
2-
Kumho
3+
Viking
3

Info! Tires rated 3+ or worse are downgraded. The highest score is 1+, indicating the best braking performance.

Dry Handling

BFGoodrich
1-
Bridgestone
1-
Pirelli
2+
Giti
2+
Vredestein
2
Michelin
2
Goodyear
2
Kleber
2
Viking
2
Kumho
2
Continental
2-
Dunlop
2-
GT Radial
2-
Toyo
2-
Linglong
3+

Info! A rating of 3+ or worse results in a downgrade. 1+ is the best, showing superior control and cornering.


Handling-wise, all-season tires might not outpace summer tires, but they certainly keep them within striking distance. And here's the silver lining: that softer rubber compound doesn't just aid in winter—it also delivers a quieter, more comfortable ride by significantly reducing rolling noise.

Eco-Friendliness Counts

13,000 km Endurance: Precise Tread Wear Analysis
13,000 km Endurance: Precise Tread Wear Analysis

Tires that wear out quickly don't just dent your wallet—they impact the environment too. Kumho sets a negative example here; after just 13,000 kilometers, it sheds more than twice the rubber compared to the low-wear models from Michelin, Dunlop, Toyo, and Kleber.

In fuel efficiency tests, Viking, BF Goodrich, and Bridgestone take the lead. Lighter tires also conserve resources and boost fuel economy. Dunlop's lightweight tire, for instance, weighs almost eight kilograms less than the one from GT Radial.

AUTO BILD's Final Verdict on All-Season Tires (225/50 R 17)

All-season tires have evolved into a safe and cost-effective alternative—even for mid-sized vehicles. As reliable performers in snow and ice, they meet all winter tire regulations (just look for the snowflake symbol) and eliminate the hassle of seasonal tire changes.

After an extensive performance check of 37 candidates, AUTO BILD awards its coveted "Exemplary" seal to four outstanding all-rounders. Congratulations to these top-tier performers!

Result summary. Auto Bild 2024-2025 All-Season Tire Test— 225/50R17 Places 1–15. (click to enlarge)
Result summary. Auto Bild 2024-2025 All-Season Tire Test— 225/50R17 Places 1–15. (click to enlarge)

Results

1st place: Vredestein / Quatrac

Quick Take
90 39
Comfort Handling Price/Quality Dry Performance Wet Performance Snow/Ice Performance
  • This tire replaced Vredestein / Quatrac 5
  • Available Sizes in Line: 61
  • Original Equipment (OE) tires for:
    • • Volkswagen Caddy V [2020 .. 2023]
  • Recommended Tire by Tests
  • Year Released: 2020
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Vredestein Quatrac

The Vredestein Quatrac has earned the top spot in the AUTO BILD test, demonstrating its all-around capabilities. It combines excellent performance on snow with impressive handling and braking across different surfaces. With strong resistance to hydroplaning and agile, precise steering, it stands out as a reliable option. Despite its slightly higher rolling resistance, it remains an exemplary choice for those seeking safety and sportiness in one package. The price per set is €515, and it received a commendable overall score of 1.3.


2nd place: Continental / AllSeasonContact 2

Quick Take
88 43

Continental AllSeasonContact 2

Treadwear Dry Performance Wet Performance Handling Comfort
  • Year Released: 2023
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Continental AllSeasonContact 2

The Continental AllSeasonContact 2 secured second place with an impressive performance in AUTO BILD’s test. It delivers a balanced performance across all conditions, particularly excelling on snow and ice with short braking distances and strong grip. The tire's secure handling on wet roads makes it a solid choice for those who prioritize safety. While its hydroplaning reserves are average and the price is on the higher side (€620 per set), it still earned a top rating of 1.4 overall.


3rd place: Michelin / CrossClimate 2

Quick Take
86 54

Michelin CrossClimate 2

Price/Quality Wet Performance Handling Dry Performance Snow/Ice Performance Comfort Treadwear
  • This tire replaced Michelin / CrossClimate
  • Available Sizes in Line: 209
  • Original Equipment (OE) tires for:
    • • Volvo C40 I [2021 .. 2023]
  • Recommended Tire by Tests
  • Year Released: 2020
  • Regions for sale: USA+, Canada, Europe, Russia+, Japan
Michelin CrossClimate 2

The Michelin CrossClimate 2 earned a top spot as the AUTO BILD Eco-Meister, showcasing its strong performance across various conditions. It excels on dry and snowy roads, delivering short braking distances and impressive longevity. With a low rolling resistance, it's an efficient choice for those looking to maximize fuel economy. However, it shows slightly longer braking distances on wet surfaces. Despite this, the tire received an overall score of 1.4 and is priced at €670 per set.


4th place: Goodyear / Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

Quick Take
91 59

Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

Handling Price/Quality Dry Performance Wet Performance Snow/Ice Performance
  • This tire replaced Goodyear / Vector 4Seasons Gen-2
  • Available Sizes in Line: 129
  • Original Equipment (OE) tires for:
    • • Renault Megane E-Tech [2022 .. 2023]
    • • Jeep Avenger [2023 .. 2024]
    • • Volkswagen Passat NMS II Facelift [2021 .. 2025]
  • Recommended Tire by Tests
  • Year Released: 2020
  • Regions for sale: Europe, Russia+, Japan, South Africa
Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

The Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 earned high marks in the AUTO BILD test, securing fourth place. It offers consistent performance across all conditions, with strong hydroplaning resistance, short braking distances, and reliable handling in various weather scenarios. While its mileage is average, the tire remains a solid choice for those seeking balanced performance and safety. Priced at €580 per set, it received an overall score of 1.5.


5th place: Pirelli / Cinturato All Season SF 3

Quick Take
N/A 41

Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF 3

  • Year Released: 2024
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF 3

The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 claimed fifth place, offering strong performance with short braking distances on both wet and dry roads. It provides excellent safety reserves in hydroplaning situations, making it a reliable option for various weather conditions. Despite its satisfactory mileage and higher price point (€560 per set), the tire still earned an overall score of 2.0 and is rated “good.”


6th place: Dunlop / All Season 2

Quick Take
N/A 31
  • Available Sizes in Line: 2
  • Year Released: 2024
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Dunlop All Season 2

The Dunlop All Season 2 secured sixth place. It delivers a balanced performance across various conditions, with its standout feature being the best mileage in the test, earning top marks for cost efficiency. However, it shows moderate side grip on snow and extended braking distances on wet surfaces. Priced at €510 per set, the tire received an overall rating of 2.2, making it a solid, all-around choice with no major drawbacks.


7th place: Kleber / Quadraxer 3

Quick Take
81 35
Comfort Price/Quality Wet Performance Dry Performance Handling Treadwear
  • Available Sizes in Line: 68
  • Recommended Tire by Tests
  • Year Released: 2022
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Kleber Quadraxer 3

The Kleber Quadraxer 3 achieved seventh place, showing a strong performance with short braking distances on both snowy and dry roads. It also offers good hydroplaning resistance, ensuring stability in wet conditions. However, its grip and braking distances on wet surfaces are less impressive. With a price of €510 per set and an overall rating of 2.3, it’s a good option for drivers looking for reliable performance across most conditions.


8th place: Giti / GitiAllSeason AS2

Quick Take
N/A 25
  • Available Sizes in Line: 15
  • Year Released: 2023
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Giti GitiAllSeason AS2

The Giti Giti AllSeason AS2 secured eighth place. It performed well with short braking distances on snow and ice, good hydroplaning resistance, and secure handling on both wet and dry roads. However, it showed slightly extended wet braking distances and average mileage. Priced at €530 per set, it received an overall score of 2.4, making it a solid choice for drivers who prioritize winter performance and handling stability.


9th place: GT Radial / ClimateActive

Quick Take
N/A 30
  • Available Sizes in Line: 61
  • Year Released: 2023
  • Regions for sale: Europe, Russia+
GT Radial ClimateActive

The GT Radial ClimateActive took ninth place in the AUTO BILD test, offering solid performance with short braking distances on snowy roads and stable handling on both wet and dry surfaces. While it provides good overall performance, it falls short with limited mileage and slightly extended wet braking distances. Priced at €515 per set, it received an overall score of 2.5, making it a reliable choice for balanced driving in various conditions.


10th place: BFGoodrich / Advantage All Season

Quick Take
N/A 28

BFGoodrich Advantage All Season

  • Available Sizes in Line: 98
  • Year Released: 2022
  • Regions for sale: Europe
BFGoodrich Advantage All Season

The BF Goodrich All-Season Advantage placed tenth, showcasing impressive braking performance on snow and dry roads, strong hydroplaning resistance, and high mileage. However, its wet grip and braking distances are less convincing. Priced at €445 per set, it received an overall score of 3.1, making it a satisfactory option for those prioritizing winter and dry performance but with some compromises in wet conditions.


11th place: Viking / FourTech Plus

Quick Take
N/A 30
  • Year Released: 2023
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Viking FourTech Plus

The Viking FourTech Plus ranked eleventh. It performs reliably on wet and dry roads, offering safe handling and good hydroplaning resistance. However, its snow grip and handling are only average, and the mileage is modest. With a price of €495 per set and an overall score of 3.3, it's a satisfactory option but with limitations in winter conditions.


12th place: Bridgestone / Turanza All Season 6

Quick Take
96 41

Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6

Handling Treadwear Dry Performance Wet Performance Comfort
  • Year Released: 2023
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6

The Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6 placed twelfth. It excels with safe handling and short braking distances on wet and dry roads, paired with impressive mileage. However, its performance on snow is lacking. Priced at €565 per set, it received an overall score of 3.4, making it a satisfactory choice for drivers prioritizing wet and dry road performance over winter capabilities.


13th place: Kumho / Solus 4S HA32+

Quick Take
N/A 19
  • Year Released: 2022
  • Regions for sale: Europe
Kumho Solus 4S HA32+

The Kumho Solus 4S HA32+ finished in thirteenth place in the AUTO BILD test. It provides stable handling on wet and dry roads with good driving comfort. However, it falls short in hydroplaning resistance, snow grip, and overall mileage, with increased rolling resistance. Priced at €440 per set, it received an overall score of 4.2, making it a conditionally recommended choice with noticeable compromises.


14th place: Toyo / Celsius AS2

Quick Take
69 39
Dry Performance Wet Performance Comfort Handling Treadwear
  • Year Released: 2021
  • Regions for sale: Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Middle East
Toyo Celsius AS2

The Toyo Celsius AS2 ranked fourteenth. It offers smooth handling on dry roads and excellent mileage. However, its performance on snow is weak, with limited grip and extended braking distances on wet surfaces. Priced at €470 per set, it received an overall score of 4.3, making it a conditionally recommended option with significant drawbacks in winter conditions.


15th place: Linglong / Grip Master 4S

Quick Take
N/A 24
  • Available Sizes in Line: 15
  • Year Released: 2022
  • Regions for sale: Europe, Russia+
Linglong Grip Master 4S

The Linglong Grip Master 4S secured fifteenth place. It delivers safe handling on dry roads, good comfort, and high mileage. However, its performance on snow and wet surfaces is poor, with limited hydroplaning resistance. Priced at €355 per set, it received an overall score of 4.4, making it a conditionally recommended option with notable limitations in challenging conditions.