Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 has been crowned the best Nordic tire for the winter of 2024-2025 in the 225/45 R17 segment by NAF Motor. Manufactured in Poland during the 26th week of 2023, this tire stands out with exceptional hydroplaning resistance and the shortest braking distance on wet asphalt in its class. Its steering precision is unmatched, making it a top choice for those seeking control. On snowy roads, it’s unbeatable, and it performs admirably even on ice. With a tread depth of 7.5 mm, a Shore hardness of 60 units, and weighing 9.5 kg, the UltraGrip Ice 3 combines durability with high performance. The model also leads in fuel efficiency, offering a well-rounded solution for winter driving. Priced at 2181 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94T, this tire proves that it delivers premium value.

If it weren’t for its weaker performance in deep water, the Continental Viking Contact 8 might have claimed the top spot. However, securing second place is an impressive achievement, especially for its debut. This tire posted the fastest lap time on ice, showcased reliable handling on snow, and delivered the shortest braking distance on dry surfaces. Manufactured in Germany during the 49th week of 2023, the Viking Contact 8 offers a balanced performance. With a tread depth of 7.9 mm, a Shore hardness of 56 units, and a weight of 9.9 kg, it combines stability with precision. Priced at 2549 NOK and carrying a load and speed index of 94T, this tire demonstrates why it earned its well-deserved silver.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 secured its spot thanks to the driving pleasure it delivers on icy roads, a rare feature among non-studded tires, according to drivers. Its excellent grip on snow makes it a perfect fit for harsh winter conditions. However, the steering feel on bare roads was somewhat inconsistent, which cost it some crucial points. Produced in Finland in the first week of 2024, this tire offers a tread depth of 8.2 mm, a Shore hardness of 52 units, and weighs 9.6 kg. Priced at 2332 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94T, the Hakkapeliitta R5 remains a strong contender for winter performance.

The Michelin X-Ice Snow stands out as the only tire in the test with a speed rating above 200 km/h. Whether that's related or not, its braking performance is solid on both winter and dry roads. However, its slightly reduced grip in corners pushed it just off the podium. While the grip isn’t bad, it tends to slip earlier than some of its competitors. A minor drawback is the slightly increased road noise. Manufactured in China during the 24th week of 2023, this tire offers an 8.0 mm tread depth, a Shore hardness of 60 units, and weighs 10 kg. Priced at 2573 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94H, the Michelin X-Ice Snow still delivers dependable winter performance.

Launched in 2016, the Hankook Winter i*cept iZ2 W616 is starting to show its age. By modern standards, it struggles to balance winter grip with spring conditions. Compared to other premium-class tires, it falls behind in braking efficiency and cornering performance. However, where this veteran still holds its ground is in fuel economy and low external noise. Manufactured in Korea during the 23rd week of 2023, the tire features a tread depth of 8.3 mm, a Shore hardness of 63 units, and weighs 9.6 kg. Priced at 1717 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94T, it remains a competitive option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and quieter rides.

As expected, the all-season Michelin CrossClimate 2 struggles to compete with dedicated winter tires on ice and snow, even when compared to budget options. However, when it comes to asphalt, this tire shines, outperforming both the cheapest and the most premium winter tires. On wet asphalt, it delivers a completely different level of performance. In the overall score, this year-round model collects more points than some winter specialists. Manufactured in Italy during the 26th week of 2023, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 has a tread depth of 6.3 mm, a Shore hardness of 69 units, and weighs 8.9 kg. Priced at 1567 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94V, it proves to be a strong contender for those prioritizing performance on asphalt.

Only a miracle could have lifted the Radar Dimax Ice from the bottom of the ranking, but it never came. Things could have been worse if the Singaporean manufacturer hadn’t received expert help from Nokian. Thanks to this guidance, the tire managed to surprise with its decent grip on ice and solid cornering stability, even outperforming some top-tier models in these areas. However, being the best among the worst is little consolation, and its low price doesn’t fully justify its overall performance. Manufactured in China during the 24th week of 2023, this tire has a tread depth of 8.0 mm, a Shore hardness of 53 units, and weighs 9.9 kg. Priced at 1129 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94T, the Radar Dimax Ice still struggles to compete in this lineup.

The GreenMax Winter Ice I-15 is often described as a one-trick pony. Its only notable performance came in the hydroplaning resistance test, while the rest of the results were disappointing. Drivers reported that on winter roads, the tire loses grip abruptly and early. This same behavior repeated in the dry moose test, making the car difficult to control. High rolling resistance only adds more to its shortcomings. Manufactured in China during the 37th week of 2023, the GreenMax Winter Ice I-15 has a tread depth of 8.9 mm, a Shore hardness of 60 units, and weighs 9.8 kg. Priced at 1047 NOK, with a load and speed index of 94T, it offers little more than a budget option in this competition.