Autobild: Large Winter Tire Test R18 2024

Autobild: Large Winter Tire Test R18

Auto Bild's extensive winter tire test featured 54 models in size 225/45R18, narrowing down to 20 in the main evaluation. This rigorous testing aimed to identify the best winter tires, culminating with only three models receiving the "Exemplary" rating. The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 emerged as the test winner.

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

    The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 emerges as a top contender in winter tire performance, showcasing outstanding capabilities in snow and wet conditions. Its proficiency in dry handling is notable, complemented by a commendable tread life that promises durability. While its overall excellence is unquestionable, the higher price point may be a consideration for some buyers.

    Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Treadwear   Wet Handling   Price  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · Japan Japan
    Test Score:
    1.4
  2. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 Recommended
    Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
    89 46
    · Winter · 2023 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stands out for its well-rounded performance profile, excelling in snow conditions and boasting a long tread life. This tire demonstrates strong capabilities in dry braking and wet pavement handling, while also delivering commendable comfort levels. However, it's important to note the higher rolling resistance, which may impact fuel economy.

    Wet Braking   Snow Performance   Dry Braking   Treadwear   Comfort   Performance Balance   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    1.5
  3. Continental WinterContact TS 870 P Recommended
    Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
    88 48
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P delivers an impressive balance of performance across various conditions, with notable strengths in dry handling, snow braking, and effective braking on both wet and dry pavement. This tire ensures a high level of grip and rapid braking response. While it stands out for its performance, the higher price point and impact on fuel economy are factors to consider.

    Wet Braking   Snow Braking   Dry Braking   Dry Handling   Performance Balance   Price   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    1.6
  4. BFGoodrich g-Force Winter 2
    BFGoodrich g-Force Winter 2
    79 39
    · Winter · 2016 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The BFGoodrich g-Force Winter 2 excels in snow performance and demonstrates proficient handling in both dry and wet conditions. Its resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning is a key feature, enhancing safety and control. However, the tire's braking performance on dry pavement is an area where improvements could be beneficial.

    Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Straight Aquaplaning   Wet Handling   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    2
  5. Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
    Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
    86 45
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 impresses with its excellent snow performance and effective wet handling, backed by a substantial tread life. These tires are particularly adept in wet conditions and are designed for longevity. However, they exhibit a minor tendency to understeer on dry surfaces, which slightly affects their dry handling capability.

    Wet Handling   Snow Performance   Treadwear   Dry Handling  
    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:

    The Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330 excels in snow conditions and stands out for its proficient dry handling and effective resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning. These features position it as a reliable choice in challenging winter scenarios. However, its durability is somewhat compromised, with a shorter service life than some competitors.

    Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Straight Aquaplaning   Treadwear  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · South Korea South Korea
    Test Score:
    2.2
  7. Dunlop Winter Sport 5
    Dunlop Winter Sport 5
    82 57
    · Winter · 2015 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Dunlop Winter Sport 5 tires are commendable for their durability and strong performance in snow conditions. Their service life is noteworthy, indicating a good return on investment. However, the tires fall short in braking performance on dry pavement, an aspect that could be enhanced for better overall efficiency.

    Snow Performance   Treadwear   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    2.3
  8. Vredestein Wintrac Pro
    Vredestein Wintrac Pro
    82 46
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Vredestein Wintrac Pro demonstrates a commendable balance in performance, excelling in snow conditions and handling on both wet and dry pavement. Its resistance to aquaplaning is a notable advantage, enhancing safety and control in challenging conditions. However, the tire's service life is relatively short, indicating a need for more frequent replacement.

    Wet Handling   Snow Performance   Dry Handling   Treadwear  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    2.7
  9. Barum Polaris 5
    Barum Polaris 5
    62 37
    · Winter · 2018 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Barum Polaris 5 offers a satisfying balance of value and performance, excelling in snow conditions and dry handling with an impressive service life, all at a competitive price point. While it stands as a cost-effective option, its performance on wet pavement is compromised, with noticeable understeer being a significant drawback.

    Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Price   Treadwear   Wet Handling  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3
  10. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    88 56
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 stands out for its exceptional performance on wet pavement and resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning, coupled with solid dry handling. However, it exhibits a notable imbalance in characteristics, with superior wet pavement performance akin to summer tires but lacking in lateral stability on snow. Additionally, its wear resistance is less than ideal, suggesting a shorter lifespan compared to its counterparts.

    Dry Handling   Wet Handling   Straight Aquaplaning   Snow Lateral Stability   Treadwear  
    Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.1
  11. Kleber Krisalp HP3
    Kleber Krisalp HP3
    80 52
    · Winter · 2016 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Kleber Krisalp HP3 delivers excellent performance in snow conditions, backed by strong resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning and a notable reduction in noise levels. However, it tends to understeer on both wet and dry pavement, indicating areas where handling could be improved for a more balanced overall performance.

    Noise   Snow Performance   Straight Aquaplaning   Dry Handling   Wet Handling  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.1
  12. Uniroyal WinterExpert
    Uniroyal WinterExpert
    58 32
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Uniroyal WinterExpert, positioned at 12th place, impresses with its cost-effective balance, showcasing competent performance on both snow and wet pavement. This tire offers a favorable price-to-performance ratio, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Nevertheless, its braking capabilities on dry pavement are an area where enhancement is needed to elevate its overall efficacy.

    Wet Handling   Snow Performance   Price/Performance Ratio   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    3.2
  13. Laufenn I FIT+
    Laufenn I FIT+
    55 37
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Laufenn i FIT+ ranks satisfactorily at 13th place, excelling in snow performance and braking on wet pavement, while maintaining low noise levels. However, it falls short in lateral stability on both wet and dry surfaces, an aspect that affects its overall handling and safety. Despite this, its quietness and effective wet braking are commendable features.

    Noise   Snow Performance   Wet Braking   Dry Lateral Stability   Wet Lateral Stability  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.3
  14. Paxaro Inverno
    Paxaro Inverno
    N/A 23
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Paxaro Inverno, ranked at 14th place, is a budget-friendly option notable for its effective snow braking and resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning. It performs well in dry handling and offers a competitive price. However, it demonstrates understeer in snow and wet conditions, and its increased rolling resistance impacts fuel economy. Despite these drawbacks, its strengths in specific conditions make it a viable choice for cost-conscious consumers.

    Dry Handling   Snow Braking   Price   Straight Aquaplaning   Snow Handling   Wet Handling   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    3.4
  15. Toyo Observe S944
    Toyo Observe S944
    69 42
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Toyo Observe S944, securing the 14th position, excels in traction and braking on snow, ensuring reliable performance in winter conditions. It offers a commendable level of comfort and boasts a long service life, making it a durable choice. However, its lateral stability on snow and wet pavement is an area where it lacks, highlighting the need for enhancement to ensure consistent handling and safety.

    Snow Traction   Snow Braking   Treadwear   Comfort   Wet Lateral Stability   Snow Lateral Stability  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.4
  16. Semperit Speed-Grip 5
    Semperit Speed-Grip 5
    80 38
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Semperit Speed-Grip 5, ranked at 16th place, showcases commendable snow performance and dry handling, coupled with an impressive tread life. These attributes make it a reliable option for snowy conditions. However, it exhibits shortcomings in lateral stability on wet pavement and braking efficiency on dry roads, aspects that could be refined for a more well-rounded performance.

    Dry Handling   Snow Performance   Treadwear   Wet Lateral Stability   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.5
  17. Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro
    Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro
    N/A 26
    · Winter · 2022 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro, positioned at 17th place and conditionally recommended, performs well in wet and dry handling and offers a comfortable ride. However, its limited tread life and high rolling resistance impact its overall economy and long-term value. Additionally, its resistance to lateral drift on wet surfaces is relatively poor, affecting its stability in such conditions.

    Dry Handling   Wet Handling   Comfort   Wet Lateral Stability   Rolling Resistance   Treadwear  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    3.7
  18. Debica Frigo HP2
    Debica Frigo HP2
    74 31
    · Winter · 2016 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Debica Frigo HP2, ranked 18th and labeled as conditionally recommended, offers commendable performance in snow conditions at an affordable price. However, it falls short in several critical areas: it exhibits lengthy braking distances on both wet and dry surfaces, and a tendency to understeer on dry pavement. These limitations, along with concerns about its economic efficiency, suggest a careful consideration of its overall value.

    Price   Snow Performance   Dry Handling   Dry Braking   Wet Braking   Economy  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    3.8
  19. Viking WinTech
    Viking WinTech
    N/A 24
    · Winter · 2017 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Occupying the 19th position and falling under the category of conditionally recommended, the Viking WinTech tires demonstrate effective performance in snow conditions and are attractively priced. However, they are hampered by extended braking distances on both dry and wet pavement, and exhibit increased rolling resistance. Furthermore, their resistance to longitudinal aquaplaning is less than optimal, affecting overall driving safety in wet conditions.

    Price   Snow Performance   Rolling Resistance   Wet Handling   Straight Aquaplaning   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe
    Test Score:
    3.9
  20. Firestone Winterhawk 4
    Firestone Winterhawk 4
    70 41
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    Ranked at 20th place and categorized as not recommended, the Viking WinTech tire is noted for its effective handling in snow and on wet pavement. However, it faces significant challenges in dry conditions, exhibiting severe understeer and extended braking distances. Additionally, its relatively high rolling resistance is a concern, as it adversely affects fuel consumption and overall vehicle efficiency.

    Snow Handling   Wet Handling   Dry Handling   Dry Braking   Economy  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
    Test Score:
    4
Year
2024
Tire Test Original Link
Visit Website
Max Score, points
1
Tire Size
225/45R18
Season
Winter
Auto Type
Passenger
List Type
Professional Tire Test
Region
Europe
Date added
Jan 13, 2024
Date updated
Mar 26, 2024

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