Autobild Sportcars: Winter Tire Test R19 2025

Autobild Sportcars: Winter Tire Test R19

Modern winter tires have come a long way in handling snow and ice, but when it comes to wet roads, the real differences emerge. AUTO BILD put ten winter tires for sporty cars through their paces to see which ones can truly deliver. Whether it's braking on snow, maintaining grip on wet roads, or handling dry conditions, these tires were pushed to their limits to find out which one comes out on top.

  1. Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 - Winner Recommended
    Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
    93 44
    · Winter · 2014 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Claiming the top spot with a stellar score of 1.2, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 stands as the ultimate winter tire for sporty cars. It delivers dynamic handling in all weather conditions, offering superior snow traction, precise steering, and excellent feedback. While it ranks moderately in cornering hydroplaning, its overall performance is exceptional. Priced around €1100 per set, it's a confident choice for those seeking precision and power on the road.

    Snow Handling   Wet Handling   Snow Traction   Steering Response   Snow Performance   Driving Safety   Cornering Stability   Price  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · Japan Japan
    Test Score:
    1.2
  2. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 Recommended
    Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
    89 55
    · Winter · 2023 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Earning a strong second place with a score of 1.3, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 delivers high-level performance across the board. It excels in snowy conditions, consistently staying at the front of the pack. This tire provides outstanding wet and dry handling, complemented by precise steering response. Priced at approximately €1000 per set, it offers a compelling blend of agility and control for sporty car enthusiasts. The only area where it falls short is braking on snow, but its overall balanced performance makes it a solid choice for diverse driving conditions.

    Wet Handling   Snow Handling   Steering Response   Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Snow Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    1.3
  3. Continental WinterContact TS 870 P Recommended
    Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
    90 55
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Securing third place with a score of 1.4, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P excels on both wet and dry roads, showcasing some of the best snow-handling capabilities in its category. This tire offers reliable control and robust hydroplaning resistance, ensuring safe and confident driving in adverse conditions. Priced at approximately €1030 per set, it represents a premium option for those who prioritize top-tier winter performance, despite its higher price point.

    Wet Handling   Snow Handling   Dry Handling   Dry Performance   Hydroplaning   Wet Performance   Driving Safety   Price  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    1.4
  4. Dunlop Winter Sport 5 Recommended
    Dunlop Winter Sport 5
    82 57
    · Winter · 2015 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Securing fourth place with a commendable score of 1.5, the Dunlop Winter Sport 5 shines in wet conditions, matching the performance of some summer tires. It delivers excellent wet handling and precise steering response, making it a dependable choice for rainy days. While its snow performance is average, it stands out as the most affordable option in the "Exemplary" group, priced around €845 per set. The only drawback is a slightly higher rolling resistance, but if you're looking for top-notch wet-weather capabilities without a premium price tag, this tire fits the bill.

    Wet Performance   Price   Wet Handling   Wet Braking   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    1.5
  5. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    87 53
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Claiming the fifth spot with a score of 2.1, the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 Enliten excels in wet handling and braking, delivering exceptional performance in rainy conditions. It offers secure and precise cornering on snowy roads, ensuring reliable control during winter drives. Despite these strengths, its dry braking performance falls short, preventing it from attaining an "exemplary" rating. Priced around €920 per set, the Blizzak LM005 Enliten is a dependable choice for drivers who prioritize superior wet-weather capabilities and confident handling on snow-covered terrains.

    Snow Handling   Wet Handling   Driving Safety   Wet Braking   Dry Braking  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    2.1
  6. Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330
    Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330
    90 44
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Securing the sixth position with a score of 2.3, the Hankook Winter i’cept evo³ delivers impressive performance on both dry and wet roads. It offers robust hydroplaning resistance and ensures short braking distances in wet conditions, enhancing overall driving safety. Priced around €775 per set, this tire provides excellent value for those seeking reliable winter performance without a hefty price tag. However, its winter capabilities are somewhat limited, exhibiting a tendency to understeer in challenging conditions. Overall, the Winter i’cept evo³ stands out as a balanced and affordable option for drivers prioritizing both performance and cost-effectiveness.

    Wet Braking   Price   Dry Performance   Hydroplaning   Wet Performance   Cornering Stability  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · South Korea South Korea
    Test Score:
    2.3
  7. Vredestein Wintrac Pro
    Vredestein Wintrac Pro
    82 46
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Securing the seventh position with a score of 2.5, the Vredestein Wintrac Pro delivers stable side grip and precise handling, ensuring strong traction on snowy roads. It excels in cornering hydroplaning, offering reliable control during sharp turns. However, its performance on dry roads is less harmonious, and the higher rolling resistance may affect fuel efficiency. Priced around €835 per set, the Wintrac Pro is a dependable option for drivers prioritizing snow performance while balancing efficiency.

    Snow Handling   Lateral Hydroplaning   Wet Handling   Snow Traction   Dry Handling   Rolling Resistance  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    2.5
  8. Ceat Winter Drive Sport
    Ceat Winter Drive Sport
    N/A 21
    · Winter · 2022 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Claiming the eighth position with a score of 3.2, the Ceat WinterDrive Sport (91 V) delivers impressive snow traction and balanced handling on dry roads. Priced affordably at approximately €320 per set, it offers excellent value for drivers seeking reliable winter performance without a hefty investment. This tire excels in snowy conditions, providing strong grip and stable control, while maintaining smooth handling on dry surfaces. However, its performance on wet roads is limited, with mediocre hydroplaning resistance and side grip, which could impact safety during heavy rain or slippery conditions. Overall, the WinterDrive Sport is a practical choice for those prioritizing cost-effective winter driving with dependable snow capabilities.

    Dry Handling   Snow Traction   Price   Wet Performance   Hydroplaning  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.2
  9. Radar Dimax Alpine
    Radar Dimax Alpine
    N/A 27
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Placing ninth with a score of 4.4, the Radar Dimax Alpine (91 V) delivers impressive winter performance, handling snow and ice with confidence. It excels in dry braking, ensuring quick stops when needed, and is the quietest tire in its class, enhancing overall driving comfort. At approximately €450 per set, it offers excellent value for those seeking reliable winter traction without a hefty price tag. However, its performance diminishes on wet roads, with limited safety margins, and the high rolling resistance may lead to increased fuel consumption. The Radar Dimax Alpine is a solid choice for drivers prioritizing winter conditions and low noise, though caution is advised in rainy environments.

    Dry Braking   Noise   Snow Performance   Price   Rolling Resistance   Wet Handling  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada
    Test Score:
    4.4
Year
2025
Tire Test Original Link
Visit Website
Tire Size
235/35R19
Season
Winter
Auto Type
Passenger
List Type
Professional Tire Test
Region
Europe
Date added
Oct 16, 2024
Date updated
Oct 18, 2024

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