ACE/ARBÖ/GTÜ: Winter Tire Test R18 2024

The ACE/ARBÖ/GTÜ Winter Tire Test R18 offers a comprehensive analysis of winter tires, evaluating both premium and budget options. Expert teams from the Automobile Club of Europe, the German Society for Technical Inspection, and the Austrian Automobile Club joined forces to conduct this detailed assessment. The test was staged in two distinct climates: the snowy landscapes of Ivalo, Finland, and the varied conditions of Goodyear's proving ground in Mireval, France.

This test serves as an insightful guide for both potential customers and those who have already invested in winter tires, offering a detailed, performance-based perspective on a range of tire brands and models. It underscores the importance of considering various factors, including safety and handling, in different weather conditions, beyond just the price point.

Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 - Winner Recommended
88 56

· Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
The quintessential all-rounder. Bridgestone impresses with a flawless performance profile.

Positive: Dominates with impressive snow braking, wet pavement control, resistance to aquaplaning, dry handling, and economical advantages.

Rating: Highly Recommended
Straight Aquaplaning Wet Handling Dry Handling Economy Snow Braking Lateral Aquaplaning

Canada · Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

190
Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 X W330A Recommended
N/A 28

· Winter · 2020 · Light Truck / SUV - Light Truck/SUV Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
A close second, Hankook nails almost all aspects, especially standing out in wet conditions.

Positive: Highlights include superior snow traction, commendable wet pavement braking, lateral aquaplaning resistance, and dry surface handling.

Rating: Highly Recommended
Wet Braking Dry Handling Snow Traction Dry Braking Lateral Aquaplaning

USA+ · Canada · Europe · Russia+ · South Korea

Test Score:

187
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV Recommended
N/A 41

· Winter · 2018 · Light Truck / SUV - Light Truck/SUV Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
A dependable choice across conditions. Michelin delivers consistently.

Positive: Reliable snow handling combined with adept braking on both wet and dry surfaces.

Rating: Recommended
Dry Braking Snow Handling Wet Braking

USA+ · Canada · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia

Test Score:

186
Continental WinterContact TS 870 P Recommended
88 48

· Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
A balanced performer, offering a blend of performance and economy.

Positive: Exemplifies control on dry pavements and is a value proposition due to its economical nature.

Rating: Recommended
Dry Handling Rolling Resistance

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

183
Nokian Snowproof 2 SUV Recommended
N/A 21

· Winter · 2023 · Light Truck / SUV - Light Truck/SUV Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
Safe and steady, Nokian offers dependable performance, though slight reservations on snow.

Positive: Ensures steady traction on snow and remarkable dry pavement handling.

Rating: Recommended
Dry Handling Snow Traction

Europe

Test Score:

183
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ SUV Recommended
N/A 35

· Winter · 2021 · Light Truck / SUV - Light Truck/SUV Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
Goodyear impresses in multiple terrains, with minor notes on snow grip.

Positive: Delivers with its traction on snow, and commendable handling both on wet and dry terrains.

Rating: Recommended
Dry Handling Wet Braking Wet Handling Snow Traction

Europe · Russia+ · China

Test Score:

181
Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2 Recommended
87 44

· Winter · 2022 · Light Truck / SUV - Light Truck/SUV Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
Pirelli remains a sturdy choice, especially shining on dry roads.

Positive: Stands out due to its balanced nature and distinct dry pavement handling.

Rating: Recommended
Dry Handling Performance Balance

Europe · Russia+ · China

Test Score:

180
Sailun Ice Blazer Alpine Evo1
N/A 18

· Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow

Verdict:
Offers satisfactory safety on snow and comparable dry handling to premium brands, but comes with a noise caveat.

Negative: Handling issues on snow, and increased tire noise.

Rating: Conditionally Recommended
Noise Dry Handling Snow Handling

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

163