The Continental VikingContact 8 emerged as the top performer in this winter tire test, showcasing impressive adaptability across various conditions. Notably, the tire excelled in snow handling, achieving maximum scores in this category, while also demonstrating improved control on wet roads—a significant enhancement over the previous VikingContact 7. Additionally, it stood out as the most fuel-efficient tire in the test, making it a smart choice for drivers who value both safety and economy in harsh winter climates.

Securing a close second, the Continental VikingContact 7 reaffirmed its reputation for strong winter traction, especially on ice and snow. With top scores in snow handling and reliable ice control, this model has long been trusted for maintaining stability in treacherous winter conditions. While it may lack some of the improvements seen in the newer VC8, the VikingContact 7 remains a dependable option for drivers who prioritize traction and control on icy and snowy surfaces.

Sharing the second position alongside the Continental VikingContact 7, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 earned its place with consistent, well-rounded performance. While its results on ice weren’t the highest, the tire excelled in other key areas, proving its versatility and reliability. As noted in the Teknikens Värld report, this model shows no significant weaknesses, making it a solid choice for winter driving conditions. With strengths in snow braking, handling stability, and overall durability, the UltraGrip Ice 3 demonstrates why it remains a popular pick among drivers seeking dependable winter tires.

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 clinches fourth place with its sharp focus on winter performance, showing just why it’s a standout in icy conditions. It achieved a flawless score in snow braking (20/20) and handled snow-covered roads with unmatched stability, scoring 18/20 in ice handling. A major leap forward for Nokian, this model now offers solid hydroplaning resistance, an area previously lacking in the Finnish lineup. With these enhancements, the Hakkapeliitta R5 brings impressive control and resilience to the table, making it a go-to tire for winter warriors who demand unwavering grip and confidence on treacherous roads.

The Pirelli Ice Zero 2 stands as the best among studded winter tires, skillfully balancing performance across various winter challenges. With 192 studs, this model grips icy roads confidently, scoring 16/20 in ice braking and 18/20 in snow braking. While there’s room for slight improvement in ice traction, the Ice Zero 2 compensates with impressive snow handling, where it earned high marks for stability and control. Despite a slight dip in scoring due to elevated noise and rolling resistance, this tire remains a robust choice for those facing extreme winter conditions. Pirelli has crafted a reliable winter companion with the Ice Zero 2, ideal for drivers who prioritize dependable performance on slippery roads.

Securing the sixth spot, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 brings a refined set of qualities tailored for European winter roads. Prioritizing performance on wet and dry surfaces, this model scored 10/10 in wet braking and stability, proving its strength in rain and milder winter conditions. Additionally, the TS 870 impressed with its fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for drivers who value cost-effective winter travel. While it may not excel on ice, this tire stands out as a balanced, reliable option for those navigating variable winter roads, delivering Continental’s trusted performance where it counts most.

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10, a model known for its dominance in winter tire tests, claimed the seventh position overall but secured a strong second place among studded tires. This latest version appears to have received some upgrades, notably in hydroplaning resistance—an improvement that aligns it more closely with the high standards set by its sibling, the R5. With an impressive 18/20 for ice braking and 20/20 for ice handling, the "Hakka 10" excels in winter traction. However, it sacrificed a bit of fuel efficiency in the process, a minor trade-off for those seeking ultimate stability on icy and snowy roads.

The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, previously a high-ranking model in last year’s Teknikens Värld test, took eighth place in 2024—a reflection of the intense competition and continuous advancements in winter tire technology. Although it may have dropped in ranking, this tire remains a strong contender for drivers in regions with milder winter climates. With solid performance in wet braking (9/10) and wet handling (9/10), the UltraGrip Performance 3 excels in conditions where European-style winter roads are common. For those prioritizing safety and control over deep snow capabilities, Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3 still offers a dependable, balanced solution.

Sharing the eighth spot, the Michelin Alpin 6 shines as a reliable choice for European-style winters. While its ice and snow grip may be modest compared to studded options, the Alpin 6 makes up for it with a focus on stability and handling in milder winter conditions. With high scores in wet braking (10/10) and dry braking (10/10), this tire ensures strong performance on rainy and moderately icy roads. However, a slightly elevated rolling resistance means it falls behind Continental in fuel efficiency. For drivers facing mostly wet or slushy roads, the Michelin Alpin 6 is a solid, dependable option.

Also tied for eighth, the Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 brings a similar profile, excelling in controlled winter environments. With strong results in both wet and dry braking (10/10 in each category), this tire prioritizes driver confidence in regions with moderate winter conditions. Although its rolling resistance could be improved, impacting fuel efficiency compared to its Continental counterparts, the Cinturato Winter 2 remains a strong pick for those who need balanced traction without extreme snow capabilities. This Pirelli model is ideal for drivers who value comfort and stability over aggressive winter grip.

The Michelin X-Ice North 4, though penalized for its lower fuel efficiency, excels where it counts most—in safety. This studded tire delivers outstanding grip on snow and ice, giving drivers confidence in even the harshest winter conditions. With top scores in snow and ice braking, the X-Ice North 4 is built for stability on slippery roads, ensuring reliable traction when it matters. While the fuel economy could be better, this tire remains a solid choice for those who prioritize safety and control over long distances.

The Nokian Snowproof 2, sharing the twelfth position with Michelin, delivers exactly what’s expected from a European-style winter tire. While it may not excel in deep snow or icy conditions, this model shines on asphalt, offering smooth handling and stability. Its fuel efficiency is average, making it a balanced option for drivers in regions where winter roads are more wet than snowy. For those prioritizing solid road handling over extreme winter grip, the Snowproof 2 provides a dependable and well-rounded choice.

The Bridgestone Blizzak Spike 3 dominates in ice performance, standing out with a remarkable 20/20 in ice braking and handling. With an impressive 265 studs, this tire is built to conquer icy roads, offering top-notch grip and control. However, the Blizzak Spike 3’s strength on ice comes at a cost—it ranks as one of the noisiest tires in the history of Teknikens Värld tests, which led to a significant point deduction. Additionally, its performance on wet asphalt falls short, a compromise that may affect its appeal for those driving in mixed winter conditions. For drivers facing extreme ice but willing to overlook noise, the Blizzak Spike 3 is an ideal choice.

Positioned just below Bridgestone, the studded Goodyear UltraGrip Arctic 2 offers reliable traction on icy and snowy surfaces, scoring an impressive 20/20 in ice braking. This tire is designed to tackle winter's toughest conditions with confidence. However, its high rolling resistance and weaker performance on wet surfaces led to a point deduction, affecting its overall score. Despite this, the UltraGrip Arctic 2 remains a solid choice for drivers who need dependable grip on ice but are less concerned with fuel efficiency or occasional wet conditions.

The Continental IceContact 3 faced significant point deductions due to its high rolling resistance, which impacted its fuel efficiency. However, that wasn’t its only shortcoming. Experts were unimpressed with its ice grip, indicating that the tire’s performance on icy surfaces was well below expectations. In fact, they went as far as to recommend replacing this model as soon as possible for those who prioritize safety on winter roads. While Continental is known for quality, the IceContact 3 fell short in this round of testing, highlighting areas where improvement is needed.

Surprisingly, the Michelin X-Ice Snow landed at the bottom of the ranking among tires in new condition—a shocking outcome for a model from the esteemed French brand. Despite being on the market for several years, such a low performance is difficult to justify. Testers found that its ice grip was far below expectations, failing to meet the standards Michelin is known for. Additionally, its wet braking distance was the longest of all the tires tested, making it a less-than-ideal choice for drivers in variable winter conditions. For those prioritizing reliable traction and stopping power, this result is a disappointment.