Aftonbladet: Winter Tire Test R16 2024

Aftonbladet: Winter Tire Test R16

Aftonbladet, a leading Swedish automotive publication, recently conducted its annual winter tire test, an extensive comparison featuring 19 models of 205/55R16 tires, both studded and non-studded. Adding a unique dimension to this year's test, the lineup also included two worn tires—a European winter tire and an all-season tire—providing valuable insights into tire performance over time.
The test was conducted at the Test World proving ground in Ivalo, Finland, under controlled conditions to ensure fairness and accuracy. The evaluation included a series of rigorous tests: ice and snow braking, acceleration on ice and snow, dry and wet asphalt braking, and handling on ice and snow. Additionally, rolling resistance was measured to assess fuel efficiency implications.

  1. Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 - Winner Recommended
    Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10
    94 58
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 delivers exceptional grip and quick steering responses on icy surfaces. While it offers dependable control even at higher speeds on snowy terrains, it's slightly less impressive on wet and dry asphalt. Yet, it's one of the quieter tires in its category.

    • Pros: Superior grip and driving dynamics on ice and snow.
    • Cons: Mediocre performance on wet and dry asphalt.
    Snow Performance   Snow Handling   Noise   Ice Performance   Ice Handling   Wet Performance   Dry Performance  
    North America North America · Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    8.1
  2. Continental IceContact 3 Recommended
    Continental IceContact 3
    86 49
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    A standout for its impeccable handling on icy and snowy terrains. While its braking grip on ice could be better, its overall winter road performance ranks high. However, its higher rolling resistance is something to note.

    • Pros: Stellar winter road performance, unmatched grip on snow.
    • Cons: Elevated rolling resistance.
    Snow Handling   Ice Handling   Snow Traction   Rolling Resistance   Ice Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.9
  3. Michelin X-Ice North 4 Recommended
    Michelin X-Ice North 4
    92 50
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    This tire guarantees safety and comfort on both ice and snow. While its steering might not be the sharpest on ice, its traction compensates for it, especially on snowy roads. Plus, its performance on wet asphalt is commendable, and it promises quiet rides.

    • Pros: Exceptional grip and handling on icy terrains and snowy roads.
    • Cons: None noted.
    Wet Performance   Snow Handling   Noise   Snow Traction   Ice Traction  
    Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.7
  4. Continental VikingContact 7 Recommended
    Continental VikingContact 7
    89 56
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Continental showcases a stellar performance akin to studded tires, promising precision steering and unwavering stability on snowy terrains. However, its wet grip might leave you wanting more.

    • Pros: Masterful snow navigation; commendable grip on icy terrains without studs.
    • Cons: Compromised wet grip.
    Ice Traction   Snow Handling   Ice Handling   Snow Traction   Wet Grip  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · East Asia East Asia
    Test Score:
    7.7
  5. Goodyear UltraGrip Arctic 2 Recommended
    Goodyear UltraGrip Arctic 2
    88 53
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Showcasing balanced performance on icy surfaces, this tire excels in acceleration, braking, and handling. Its performance on snow and wet asphalt is commendable, but its rolling resistance is on the higher side.

    • Pros: Balanced and top-tier performance on winter roads.
    • Cons: Elevated rolling resistance.
    Snow Performance   Ice Braking   Wet Performance   Ice Performance   Ice Handling   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.6
  6. Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 Recommended
    Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3
    N/A 36
    · Winter · 2023 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    With Goodyear's impeccable grip on icy tracks, driving feels transparent and predictable. Not the champion on snow, but its wet and dry pavement performance sets it apart.

    • Pros: Stellar grip and handling on snow; well-rounded tire traits.
    • Cons: Not specified.
    Wet Performance   Snow Handling   Dry Performance   Ice Handling  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.5
  7. Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-03 Recommended
    Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-03
    N/A 31
    · Winter · 2023 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    With more studs than its competitors, it boasts of excellent braking and handling on ice. However, its responsiveness on wet and dry asphalt might be a tad underwhelming for some users.

    • Pros: Robust grip on ice and stability in ruts.
    • Cons: Underwhelming performance on wet and dry asphalt, noise levels, and slower responsiveness.
    Ice Handling   Ice Braking   Wet Performance   Noise   Dry Performance   Steering Response  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    7.3
  8. Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 W429 Recommended
    Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 W429
    83 40
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    This tire promises excellent braking and lateral grip on ice. Its snow handling is also worth noting. However, its performance on dry roads might leave room for improvement.

    • Pros: Superior grip on ice and commendable snow handling.
    • Cons: Underperforming on dry asphalt.
    Snow Handling   Ice Handling   Ice Braking   Dry Performance  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.3
  9. Kumho WinterCraft ice Wi32 Recommended
    Kumho WinterCraft ice Wi32
    N/A 26
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    The Kumho shines for its braking and controllability on icy terrains. It also boasts a good performance on snowy roads. However, its noise levels and comfort on uneven asphalt might be a concern for some.

    • Pros: Exceptional braking on ice and control on icy and snowy roads.
    • Cons: Noise levels and discomfort on rugged roads.
    Snow Performance   Ice Handling   Ice Braking   Noise   Ride Quality  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    7.3
  10. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 Recommended
    Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
    84 43
    · Winter · 2022 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Nokian offers a seamless drive on icy landscapes with its commendable lateral stability. Snowy roads? It's got you covered. Just be wary on wet asphalt.

    • Pros: Praiseworthy performance on ice and snow; energy efficiency with low rolling resistance.
    • Cons: Slips on wet terrains.
    Snow Performance   Snow Handling   Ice Handling   Ice Performance   Rolling Resistance   Wet Performance  
    North America North America · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · Japan Japan
    Test Score:
    7.1
  11. Michelin X-Ice Snow Recommended
    Michelin X-Ice Snow
    82 57
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Michelin stands out on snowy roads, providing a drive so smooth you'd almost forget about the weather. Its performance dips on dry roads, though.

    • Pros: Superior grip and maneuvering in snowy conditions; energy-efficient.
    • Cons: Falls short on dry terrains.
    Snow Handling   Snow Performance   Energy Efficiency   Dry Performance  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · Japan Japan · China China
    Test Score:
    7
  12. Hankook Winter i*cept iZ 2 W616
    Hankook Winter i*cept iZ 2 W616
    80 30
    · Winter · 2015 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Promising ice grip and adept handling, Hankook does falter slightly with aggressive steering. Snowy roads are a breeze, but caution is advised on wet terrains.

    • Pros: Impressive ice braking and handling; low rolling resistance.
    • Cons: Wet roads can be tricky.
    Snow Performance   Rolling Resistance   Ice Handling   Ice Braking   Wet Performance  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    6.8
  13. Kumho WinterCraft Wi51
    Kumho WinterCraft Wi51
    62 30
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    With brakes that grip ice like a vice and remarkable stability on snow, Kumho makes winter driving feel like a summer breeze. However, icy terrains can be challenging.

    • Pros: Strong ice brakes; tenacious grip on snow; energy efficiency.
    • Cons: Can be unpredictable on icy roads.
    Snow Traction   Energy Efficiency   Ice Braking   Ice Handling  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    6.8
  14. Falken Winterpeak F-Snow 1
    Falken Winterpeak F-Snow 1
    74 31
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    The Falken tire is an icy road enthusiast's dream, but it demands foresight on the snowy roads. Wet terrains? Not its strong suit.

    • Pros: Stellar snow braking; ensures a quiet and comfortable ride.
    • Cons: Wet asphalt challenges its prowess.
    Noise   Snow Braking   Comfort   Wet Performance  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    6.5
  15. Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico
    Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico
    N/A 37
    · Winter · 2022 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Pirelli promises a decent icy brake performance, but lateral movements can be daunting. Its forte lies in snowy terrains, but it grapples with rutting on dry roads.

    • Pros: Commendable snow performance.
    • Cons: Wavers on icy landscapes; struggles on wet terrains.
    Snow Performance   Wet Performance   Dry Performance   Ice Handling  
    Canada Canada · Japan Japan · China China
    Test Score:
    6.2
  16. Bridgestone Blizzak Ice
    Bridgestone Blizzak Ice
    69 48
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Studless Ice & Snow · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    Bridgestone might not ace the icy grip test, but it promises a manageable drive even on the most slippery roads. However, it loses traction on wet roads.

    • Pros: Manageable icy terrain handling; smooth rides even on rugged roads.
    • Cons: Struggles on wet asphalt.
    Ride Quality   Ice Handling   Wet Traction  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · South Korea South Korea
    Test Score:
    6.1
  17. Antares Grip 60 ice
    Antares Grip 60 ice
    N/A 18
    · Winter · 2014 · Passenger - Studdable Winter / Snow · Studded · For Nordic Winter x
    Verdict:

    The Antares might have its strength in its grip on dry asphalt. But its performance on icy, snowy, and wet terrains could be better.

    • Pros: Solid grip on dry asphalt.
    • Cons: Compromised grip and handling on ice, snow, and wet pavements.
    Dry Handling   Wet Performance   Ice Performance   Snow Performance  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    5.4
Year
2024
Tire Test Original Link
Visit Website
Max Score, points
10
Tire Size
205/55R16
Season
Winter
Auto Type
Passenger
List Type
Professional Tire Test
Region
Europe
Date added
Nov 10, 2023
Date updated
Nov 17, 2023

See another Tire Tests