In this test, we selected 6 of the best ultra-high-performance winter tires, and compared them against all-season and summer tires to reveal their true capabilities. We evaluated their performance in dry, wet, snow, and ice conditions, along with comfort, noise, and rolling resistance. The results were remarkably close, and the data from the all season and summer tires is really interesting.

Test setup & methodology
The test setting, the conditions recorded and how the results contribute to the score.
Show full testing methodology
Recorded test conditions
- Dry Braking
- 62.1 → 3.1 mph · 72–77 °F
- Wet Braking
- 49.7 → 3.1 mph · 75–84 °F
- Wet Braking - Cool
- 49.7 → 3.1 mph · 45–48 °F
- Wet Handling
- 68–73 °F
- Snow Braking
- 24.9 → 3.1 mph · 19–23 °F
- Snow Traction
- 3.1 → 21.7 mph · 19–23 °F
- Snow Handling
- 19–23 °F
- Ice Braking
- 15.5 → 3.1 mph
- Ice Traction
- 3.1 → 15.5 mph
Score Weighting
Weights express the scoring priorities, not how much each discipline actually changed the finishing order. The size of the performance gaps matters too. Category weights contribute to the overall score. Within each category, discipline weights divide that category’s share. Published finishing positions also need to be read alongside the editorial verdict.
| Test | Within category | Share of overall score |
|---|---|---|
| Dry · 20% | ||
| Dry Braking | 50% | 10% |
| Dry Handling | 40% | 8% |
| Subj. Dry Handling | 10% | 2% |
| Wet · 30% | ||
| Wet Braking | 20% | 6% |
| Wet Braking - Cool | 20% | 6% |
| Wet Handling | 30% | 9% |
| Subj. Wet Handling | 10% | 3% |
| Straight Aqua | 15% | 4.5% |
| Curved Aquaplaning | 5% | 1.5% |
| Snow · 30% | ||
| Snow Braking | 35% | 10.5% |
| Snow Traction | 20% | 6% |
| Snow Handling | 30% | 9% |
| Subj. Snow Handling | 15% | 4.5% |
| Ice · 5% | ||
| Ice Braking | 60% | 3% |
| Ice Traction | 40% | 2% |
| Comfort · 5% | ||
| Subj. Comfort | 50% | 2.5% |
| Noise | 50% | 2.5% |
| Value · 10% | ||
| Rolling Resistance | 100% | 10% |
Our standard methods
The conditions above are recorded for this test. The descriptions below explain our standard procedures; measurement windows and run counts can vary by test.
Dry Braking
For dry braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 110 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on clean, dry asphalt. I typically use an 100–5 km/h measurement window. My standard programme is five runs per tire set where possible, although the sequence can extend to as many as fifteen runs if conditions and tire category justify it. I analyze the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. Reference tires are run repeatedly throughout the session to correct for changing conditions.
Dry Handling
For dry handling, I drive at the limit of adhesion around a dedicated handling circuit with ESC disabled where possible so I can assess the tire's natural balance, transient response, and limit behavior without electronic intervention masking the result. I usually complete between two and five timed laps per tire set, depending on the circuit, tire type, and consistency of conditions. I exclude laps affected by clear driver error or obvious environmental inconsistency. Control runs are carried out frequently throughout the session, and I often use multiple sets of control tires so that wear on the references does not become a meaningful variable. For more track-focused products, I also do endurance testing, which is a set number of laps at race pace to determine tire wear patterns and heat resistance over longer driving.
Subj. Dry Handling
I also carry out a structured subjective handling assessment at the limit of adhesion on a dedicated dry handling circuit. I score steering precision, steering response, turn-in behavior, mid-corner balance, corner-exit traction, breakaway characteristics, and overall confidence using a standardised 1–10 scale used consistently across my testing. The final assessment combines numeric scoring with written technical commentary. I complete familiarisation laps on the control tire before evaluating each candidate.
Wet Braking
For wet braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 88 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on an asphalt surface with a controlled water film. I typically use an 80–5 km/h measurement window to isolate tire performance from variability in the initial brake application. My standard programme is eight runs per tire set where possible, although the sequence can extend to as many as fifteen runs if conditions and tire category justify it. I analyze the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. To correct for changing conditions, I run reference tires repeatedly throughout the session — in wet testing, typically every three candidate test sets.
Wet Braking - Cool
This test follows the same procedure as the standard wet braking test — entry speed of 88 km/h, full ABS braking, VBOX measurement over the 80–5 km/h window — but is conducted at cooler ambient temperatures, typically below 7°C. The lower temperature allows assessment of how each tire's compound performs when cold, which is particularly relevant for all-season and winter tire evaluation. Reference tires are run at the same frequency as the standard wet braking programme.
Wet Handling
For wet handling, I drive at the limit of adhesion around a dedicated handling circuit. I generally use specialist wet circuits with kerb-watering systems designed to maintain a consistent surface condition. ESC is disabled where possible so I can assess the tire's natural balance, transient response, and limit behavior without electronic intervention masking the result. I usually complete between two and five timed laps per tire set, depending on the circuit, tire type, and consistency of conditions. I exclude laps affected by clear driver error or obvious environmental inconsistency. Control runs are carried out frequently throughout the session, and I often use multiple sets of control tires so that wear on the references does not become a meaningful variable.
Subj. Wet Handling
I also carry out a structured subjective handling assessment at the limit of adhesion on a dedicated wet handling circuit. I score steering precision, steering response, turn-in behavior, mid-corner balance, aquaplaning resistance, breakaway characteristics, and overall confidence using a standardised 1–10 scale used consistently across my testing. The final assessment combines numeric scoring with written technical commentary. I complete familiarisation laps on the control tire before evaluating each candidate.
Straight Aqua
To measure straight-line aquaplaning resistance, I drive one side of the vehicle through a water trough of controlled depth, typically around 7 mm, while the opposite side remains on dry pavement. I enter at a fixed speed and then accelerate progressively. I define aquaplaning onset as the point at which the wheel travelling through the water exceeds a specified slip threshold relative to the dry-side reference wheel. I usually perform four runs per tire set and average the valid results.
Curved Aquaplaning
For curved aquaplaning, I use a circular track, typically around 100 meters in diameter, with a flooded arc of controlled water depth, usually about 7 mm. The vehicle is instrumented with GPS telemetry and a tri-axial accelerometer. I drive through the flooded section at progressively increasing speed, typically in 5 km/h increments, and record the minimum sustained lateral acceleration at each step. The test continues until lateral acceleration collapses, indicating complete aquaplaning. The result is expressed as remaining lateral acceleration in m/s² as speed rises.
Snow Braking
For snow braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 50 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on a groomed, compacted snow surface, measuring 45-5 km/h. I generally use a wide VDA (vehicle dynamic area) and progressively move across the surface between runs so that no tire ever brakes on the same piece of snow twice. My standard programme is twelve runs per tire set, although the sequence can extend further if the data justify it. I analyze the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. The surface is regularly groomed throughout the session. To correct for changing snow surface conditions, I run reference tires repeatedly — typically every two candidate test sets.
Snow Traction
For snow traction, I accelerate the vehicle from rest on a groomed snow surface with traction control active and measure speed and time using GPS telemetry. I typically use a 5–35 km/h measurement window to reduce the influence of launch transients and powertrain irregularities. I use a wide VDA (vehicle dynamic area) and progressively move across the surface between runs so that no tire ever accelerates on the same piece of snow twice. The surface is regularly groomed throughout the session. I complete multiple runs per tire set and average the valid results. Reference tires are run typically every two candidate test sets to correct for changing snow surface conditions.
Snow Handling
For snow handling, I drive at the limit of adhesion around a dedicated snow handling circuit with ESC disabled where possible. The circuit is groomed and prepared after every run while tires are being changed, so each set runs on a consistently prepared surface. I usually complete between two and five timed laps per tire set, excluding laps affected by clear driver error or obvious environmental inconsistency. Because snow surfaces degrade more rapidly than asphalt, control runs are carried out more frequently — typically every two candidate test sets.
Subj. Snow Handling
I also carry out a structured subjective handling assessment at the limit of adhesion on a dedicated snow handling circuit. The circuit is groomed and prepared after every run while tires are being changed, so each set runs on a consistently prepared surface. I score steering precision, turn-in behavior, mid-corner balance, corner-exit traction, breakaway characteristics, and overall confidence on snow using a standardised 1–10 scale used consistently across my testing. The final assessment combines numeric scoring with written technical commentary. I complete familiarisation laps on the control tire before evaluating each candidate.
Ice Braking
For ice braking, I drive the test vehicle at an entry speed of 35 km/h and apply full braking effort to a standstill with ABS active on a prepared ice surface. Surface temperature is continuously monitored as ice friction properties vary substantially with temperature. My standard programme is twelve runs per tire set but with ice testing, you often do many more. I analyze the full set of runs and discard statistical outliers before averaging. Reference tires are run typically every two candidate test sets to correct for changing surface conditions.
Ice Traction
For ice traction, I accelerate the vehicle from rest on a prepared ice surface with traction control active and measure speed and time using GPS telemetry. I typically use a 5–35 km/h measurement window to reduce the influence of launch transients. I use a wide VDA (vehicle dynamic area) and progressively move across the surface between runs so that no tire ever accelerates on the same piece of ice twice. Surface temperature is continuously monitored. I complete multiple runs per tire set and average the valid results, with reference tires run typically every two candidate test sets.
Subj. Comfort
To assess comfort, I drive on a wide range of road surfaces (often dedicated comfort tracks at test facilities) at speeds from 50 to 120 km/h, including smooth motorway, coarse surfaces, expansion joints, broken pavement, and sharp-edged obstacles. I evaluate primary ride quality, secondary ride quality, impact harshness, seat-transmitted vibration, and the tire's ability to absorb sharp inputs. Ratings are assigned on a 1–10 scale relative to the reference tire.
Noise
I measure external pass-by noise in accordance with UNECE Regulation 117 and ISO 13325 using the coast-by method on a compliant test surface. Calibrated microphones are positioned beside the test lane, and the vehicle coasts through the measurement zone under controlled conditions. I record the maximum A-weighted sound pressure level in dB(A), complete multiple runs over the relevant speed range, and normalise the result to the reference speed required by the procedure.
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance is measured under controlled laboratory conditions in accordance with ISO 28580 and UNECE Regulation 117 Annex 6. The tire is mounted on a test wheel and loaded against a large-diameter steel drum. After thermal stabilisation at the prescribed test speed, rolling resistance force is measured at the spindle and corrected according to the relevant procedure. The result is expressed as rolling resistance coefficient, typically in kg/tonne.
Snow
Snow performance is crucial for winter tires, and this test saw a surprise victor. The Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 outperformed the traditionally dominant Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 across all snow tests, including braking, traction, and handling. Both tires offered exceptional snow performance, with the Pirelli showing a slight edge in grip and overall handling characteristics.

The Hankook Winter I*Cept Evo3 performed well in snow handling and snow braking, but was a little down in snow traction.
Naturally the summer tire struggled, and the unusually strong performance of an all season tire in the snow test is thanks to the Michelin CrossClimate 2 being the best in class.
Snow Braking
Snow braking in feet (25 - 3 mph) [Average Temperature 21°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Residual speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57 ft | Best | 0 mph | |
| 58 ft | +1 ft | 7 mph | |
RefReference All Season |
59 ft | +2 ft | 15 mph |
| 60 ft | +3 ft | 16 mph | |
| 60 ft | +3 ft | 17 mph | |
| 60 ft | +3 ft | 17 mph | |
| 60 ft | +3 ft | 18 mph | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
62 ft | +5 ft | 23 mph |
RefReference Summer |
145 ft | +88 ft | 62 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 152.9% (88 ft ≈ 5.9 Car Lengths). From 80 mph, the Goodride ZuperSnow Z507 would still be travelling at 18 mph when the Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 had stopped.
Residual speed is calculated from the measured braking distances, assuming constant deceleration; it is not a separate measurement.
Snow Traction
Snow acceleration time (3 - 22 mph) [Average Temperature 21°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
| 5.16 s | Best | |
| 5.18 s | +0.02 s | |
RefReference All Season |
5.31 s | +0.15 s |
| 5.37 s | +0.21 s | |
| 5.42 s | +0.26 s | |
| 5.53 s | +0.37 s | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
5.58 s | +0.42 s |
| 5.63 s | +0.47 s | |
RefReference Summer |
29.97 s | +24.81 s |
The difference between best and worst was 480.8% (24.81 s).
Snow Handling
Snow handling time in seconds [Average Temperature 21°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
| 78.28 s | Best | |
| 79.07 s | +0.79 s | |
| 79.28 s | +1.00 s | |
RefReference All Season |
79.65 s | +1.37 s |
| 80.05 s | +1.77 s | |
| 80.25 s | +1.97 s | |
| 81.53 s | +3.25 s | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
83 s | +4.72 s |
RefReference Summer |
143.3 s | +65.02 s |
The difference between best and worst was 83.1% (65.02 s).
Ice
On ice, the Michelin, Pirelli, and Hankook demonstrated strong performance in both braking and traction tests. The Goodyear and Continental showed some weakness in these challenging conditions, highlighting the diverse demands placed on winter tires.
The all season tire you see topping the results was the budget all season tire, which almost certainly had a soft winter compound not suitable for all seasons.
Ice Braking
Ice braking in feet (16 - 3 mph)
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Residual speed |
|---|---|---|---|
RefReference All Season |
30 ft | -1 ft | 0 mph |
| 31 ft | Best | 0 mph | |
| 31 ft | 0 ft | 6 mph | |
| 31 ft | 0 ft | 9 mph | |
| 32 ft | +1 ft | 17 mph | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
34 ft | +3 ft | 24 mph |
| 36 ft | +5 ft | 31 mph | |
| 37 ft | +6 ft | 31 mph | |
RefReference Summer |
106 ft | +75 ft | 67 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 256.5% (76 ft ≈ 5.1 Car Lengths). From 80 mph, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P would still be travelling at 31 mph when the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 had stopped.
Residual speed is calculated from the measured braking distances, assuming constant deceleration; it is not a separate measurement.
Ice Traction
Ice acceleration time (3 - 16 mph)
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
RefReference All Season |
4.5 s | 0.00 s |
| 4.5 s | Best | |
| 4.5 s | Best | |
| 4.63 s | +0.13 s | |
| 4.82 s | +0.32 s | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
4.95 s | +0.45 s |
| 5.14 s | +0.64 s | |
| 5.32 s | +0.82 s | |
RefReference Summer |
17.55 s | +13.05 s |
The difference between best and worst was 290% (13.05 s).
Wet

Wet braking tests, conducted at both warm and cool temperatures, saw the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 shine, offering the shortest stopping distances. The Michelin and Pirelli also performed strongly, while the Hankook and Continental lagged slightly behind. The budget tire significantly underperformed in this crucial safety test.
Wet Braking
Wet braking in feet (50 - 3 mph) [Average Temperature 80°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Residual speed |
|---|---|---|---|
RefReference Summer |
78 ft | -22 ft | 0 mph |
RefReference All Season |
82 ft | -18 ft | 0 mph |
RefReference All Season Avg |
92 ft | -8 ft | 0 mph |
| 100 ft | Best | 0 mph | |
| 100 ft | 0 ft | 6 mph | |
| 101 ft | +1 ft | 8 mph | |
| 102 ft | +2 ft | 11 mph | |
| 103 ft | +3 ft | 13 mph | |
| 114 ft | +14 ft | 28 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 45.6% (36 ft ≈ 2.4 Car Lengths). From 80 mph, the Goodride ZuperSnow Z507 would still be travelling at 28 mph when the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 had stopped.
Residual speed is calculated from the measured braking distances, assuming constant deceleration; it is not a separate measurement.
Wet Braking - Cool
Wet braking at cooler temperature in feet (50 - 3 mph) [Average Temperature 46°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Residual speed |
|---|---|---|---|
RefReference All Season |
82 ft | -9 ft | 0 mph |
RefReference Summer |
86 ft | -5 ft | 0 mph |
| 91 ft | Best | 0 mph | |
| 91 ft | 0 ft | 8 mph | |
| 92 ft | +1 ft | 9 mph | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
92 ft | +1 ft | 9 mph |
| 94 ft | +3 ft | 16 mph | |
| 95 ft | +4 ft | 17 mph | |
| 106 ft | +15 ft | 31 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 29.1% (24 ft ≈ 1.6 Car Lengths). From 80 mph, the Goodride ZuperSnow Z507 would still be travelling at 31 mph when the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 had stopped.
Residual speed is calculated from the measured braking distances, assuming constant deceleration; it is not a separate measurement.
In wet handling, the Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 narrowly edged out the competition, with the Michelin and Goodyear following closely. All three offered excellent grip and predictability. The Hankook and Continental, while still good, couldn't quite match the top performers' level of sporty dynamics in wet conditions.
Wet Handling
Wet handling time in seconds [Average Temperature 71°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
RefReference Summer |
103.02 s | -4.33 s |
| 107.35 s | Best | |
| 107.94 s | +0.59 s | |
RefReference All Season |
107.96 s | +0.61 s |
| 108.88 s | +1.53 s | |
| 109.92 s | +2.57 s | |
| 110.83 s | +3.48 s | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
112.59 s | +5.24 s |
| 117.52 s | +10.17 s |
The difference between best and worst was 14.1% (14.5 s).
Aquaplaning resistance tests revealed the Hankook's strength in straight-line aquaplaning, while the Pirelli showed the best overall performance when combining straight and curved aquaplaning results. This highlights the importance of tread design in managing deep water evacuation.
Straight Aqua
Float Speed in mph
Higher is better ↑| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
RefReference All Season |
49.2 mph | +3.8 mph |
RefReference Summer |
47.5 mph | +2.1 mph |
RefReference All Season Avg |
47.2 mph | +1.8 mph |
| 45.4 mph | Best | |
| 45.2 mph | -0.2 mph | |
| 44.7 mph | -0.7 mph | |
| 44.7 mph | -0.7 mph | |
| 44.5 mph | -0.9 mph | |
| 42.4 mph | -3.0 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 13.7% (6.8 mph).
Curved Aquaplaning
Remaining lateral acceleration
Higher is better ↑| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
RefReference Summer |
8.3 ft/s² | +1.0 ft/s² |
RefReference All Season Avg |
7.6 ft/s² | +0.3 ft/s² |
| 7.3 ft/s² | Best | |
| 7.1 ft/s² | -0.2 ft/s² | |
| 7.0 ft/s² | -0.3 ft/s² | |
| 6.9 ft/s² | -0.4 ft/s² | |
| 6.8 ft/s² | -0.5 ft/s² | |
RefReference All Season |
6.3 ft/s² | -1.0 ft/s² |
| 5.7 ft/s² | -1.6 ft/s² |
The difference between best and worst was 31.1% (2.6 ft/s²).
Dry

In dry braking, all winter tires performed well, with results within 3% of each other. The Hankook Winter i cept evo3 led the pack, showcasing the impressive capabilities of modern winter tires in dry conditions. However, it's worth noting that even the best winter tires struggled to match the average performance of the all-season tires in this test, and were way behind the summer tire.
Dry Braking
Dry braking in feet (62 - 3 mph) [Average Temperature 74°F]
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Residual speed |
|---|---|---|---|
RefReference Summer |
113 ft | -19 ft | 0 mph |
RefReference All Season |
121 ft | -11 ft | 0 mph |
RefReference All Season Avg |
128 ft | -4 ft | 0 mph |
| 132 ft | Best | 0 mph | |
| 132 ft | 0 ft | 5 mph | |
| 133 ft | +1 ft | 6 mph | |
| 134 ft | +2 ft | 10 mph | |
| 135 ft | +3 ft | 12 mph | |
| 136 ft | +4 ft | 14 mph |
The difference between best and worst was 20.5% (23 ft ≈ 1.6 Car Lengths). From 80 mph, the Goodride ZuperSnow Z507 would still be travelling at 14 mph when the Hankook Winter i cept evo3 had stopped.
Residual speed is calculated from the measured braking distances, assuming constant deceleration; it is not a separate measurement.
Dry handling revealed some interesting insights. While the budget tire surprisingly performed better than expected, the premium tires showed their worth. The Pirelli P Zero Winter 2, Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, and Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 were virtually indistinguishable in terms of lap times and offered excellent driving dynamics. However, all winter tires were outperformed by the summer tire reference, which was about 6 seconds faster per lap and sigifincatly more sporty subjectively.
Dry Handling
Dry handling time in seconds
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
RefReference Summer |
84.3 s | -2.72 s |
RefReference All Season |
84.96 s | -2.06 s |
RefReference All Season Avg |
86.76 s | -0.26 s |
| 87.02 s | Best | |
| 87.31 s | +0.29 s | |
| 87.79 s | +0.77 s | |
| 88.19 s | +1.17 s | |
| 88.64 s | +1.62 s | |
| 90.46 s | +3.44 s |
The difference between best and worst was 7.3% (6.16 s).
Comfort
Comfort and noise tests revealed minor differences among the premium tires, with the Continental offering a slight edge in comfort. The Pirelli produced the lowest external noise, closely followed by the Michelin and Continental. It's worth noting that as ultra high performance winter tires in 19-inch sizes, comfort differences were minimal among the premium options.
Subj. Comfort
Subjective Comfort Score
Higher is better ↑| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Points | Best | |
| 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points | |
| 9 Points | -1.00 Points | |
| 9 Points | -1.00 Points | |
| 9 Points | -1.00 Points | |
| 7 Points | -3.00 Points |
The difference between best and worst was 30% (3 Points).
Noise
External noise in dB
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|
| 71.4 dB | Best | |
| 71.6 dB | +0.20 dB | |
RefReference All Season |
72 dB | +0.60 dB |
| 72.3 dB | +0.90 dB | |
| 72.5 dB | +1.10 dB | |
RefReference All Season Avg |
72.7 dB | +1.30 dB |
RefReference Summer |
73.3 dB | +1.90 dB |
| 73.5 dB | +2.10 dB | |
| 75 dB | +3.60 dB |
The difference between best and worst was 5% (3.6 dB).
Value
Rolling resistance results were remarkably close, with all six tires spread across just a 3.8% range. While the budget tire showed the lowest rolling resistance, its poor performance in other crucial areas makes it difficult to recommend based on this factor alone.
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance in kg t
Lower is better ↓| Position / Tire | Result | Gap to best | Extra fuel / year |
|---|---|---|---|
RefReference All Season |
7.76 kg/t | -0.89 kg/t | $0 |
RefReference All Season Avg |
8.55 kg/t | -0.10 kg/t | $0 |
| 8.65 kg/t | Best | $0 | |
| 8.67 kg/t | +0.02 kg/t | $1 | |
| 8.69 kg/t | +0.04 kg/t | $1 | |
| 8.71 kg/t | +0.06 kg/t | $2 | |
| 8.95 kg/t | +0.30 kg/t | $10 | |
| 8.98 kg/t | +0.33 kg/t | $11 | |
RefReference Summer |
9.9 kg/t | +1.25 kg/t | $42 |
The difference between best and worst was 27.6% (2.14 kg / t). Over 12,000 miles a year at $3.60/gal, the Hankook Winter i cept evo3 uses about 3 gal ($11) more fuel than the Goodride ZuperSnow Z507.
Adjust the assumptions
Calculated estimates, not additional measurements. Use the controls to explore the assumptions.
Results
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
235/35 R19 91W XLCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 132 ft | 0 ft |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 87.31 s | +0.29 s |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 100 ft | 0 ft |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 91 ft | 0 ft |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 108.88 s | +1.53 s |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 44.5 mph | -0.9 mph |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 7.0 ft/s² | -0.3 ft/s² |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 58 ft | +1 ft |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 5.18 s | +0.02 s |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 79.28 s | +1.00 s |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 31 ft | Best in this discipline |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 1st / 6 | 4.5 s | Best in this discipline |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 2nd / 6 | 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points |
| NoiseLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 71.6 dB | +0.20 dB |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 4th / 6 | 8.71 kg/t | +0.06 kg/t |
- EU Label
- D/B/70
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 7.2 mm
- Price
- 245.74
Pirelli P Zero Winter 2
235/35 R19 91V XLCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 133 ft | +1 ft |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 87.02 s | Best in this discipline |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 2nd / 6 | 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 101 ft | +1 ft |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 92 ft | +1 ft |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 107.35 s | Best in this discipline |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 44.7 mph | -0.7 mph |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 7.3 ft/s² | Best in this discipline |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 57 ft | Best in this discipline |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 1st / 6 | 5.16 s | Best in this discipline |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 78.28 s | Best in this discipline |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 31 ft | 0 ft |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 1st / 6 | 4.5 s | Best in this discipline |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| NoiseLower is better | 1st / 6 | 71.4 dB | Best in this discipline |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 5th / 6 | 8.95 kg/t | +0.30 kg/t |
- EU Label
- C/A/70
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 7.5 mm
- Price
- 208.12
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
235/35 R19 91W XLCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 134 ft | +2 ft |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 87.79 s | +0.77 s |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 100 ft | Best in this discipline |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 1st / 6 | 91 ft | Best in this discipline |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 107.94 s | +0.59 s |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 44.7 mph | -0.7 mph |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 6.8 ft/s² | -0.5 ft/s² |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 60 ft | +3 ft |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 5.37 s | +0.21 s |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 80.25 s | +1.97 s |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 36 ft | +5 ft |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 5th / 6 | 5.14 s | +0.64 s |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| NoiseLower is better | 4th / 6 | 72.5 dB | +1.10 dB |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 8.67 kg/t | +0.02 kg/t |
- EU Label
- C/B/72
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 7.6 mm
- Price
- 227.39
Hankook Winter i cept evo3
235/35 R19 81WCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 1st / 6 | 132 ft | Best in this discipline |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 88.64 s | +1.62 s |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 4th / 6 | 8.5 Points | -1.50 Points |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 103 ft | +3 ft |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 5th / 6 | 95 ft | +4 ft |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 110.83 s | +3.48 s |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 8.5 Points | -1.50 Points |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 45.4 mph | Best in this discipline |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 2nd / 6 | 7.1 ft/s² | -0.2 ft/s² |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 60 ft | +3 ft |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 6th / 6 | 5.63 s | +0.47 s |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 2nd / 6 | 79.07 s | +0.79 s |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9.5 Points | -0.50 Points |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 31 ft | 0 ft |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 4.63 s | +0.13 s |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 3rd / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| NoiseLower is better | 5th / 6 | 73.5 dB | +2.10 dB |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 6th / 6 | 8.98 kg/t | +0.33 kg/t |
- EU Label
- D/B/72
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 8.2 mm
- Price
- 153.17
Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
235/35 R19 91W XLCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 5th / 6 | 135 ft | +3 ft |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 88.19 s | +1.17 s |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 8 Points | -2.00 Points |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 102 ft | +2 ft |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 4th / 6 | 94 ft | +3 ft |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 109.92 s | +2.57 s |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 4th / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 2nd / 6 | 45.2 mph | -0.2 mph |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 4th / 6 | 6.9 ft/s² | -0.4 ft/s² |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 60 ft | +3 ft |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 5th / 6 | 5.53 s | +0.37 s |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 80.05 s | +1.77 s |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 37 ft | +6 ft |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 6th / 6 | 5.32 s | +0.82 s |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 1st / 6 | 10 Points | Best in this discipline |
| NoiseLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 72.3 dB | +0.90 dB |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 3rd / 6 | 8.69 kg/t | +0.04 kg/t |
- EU Label
- C/B/71
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 8.2 mm
- Price
- 230.05
Goodride ZuperSnow Z507
235/35 R19 91V XLCategory scores (% of best)
All discipline results (18)
Discipline positions compare the ranked tires in this test, not the whole market. These are individual measurements, not weighted overall scores.
| Test | Position in discipline | Result | Gap to best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry BrakingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 136 ft | +4 ft |
| Dry HandlingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 90.46 s | +3.44 s |
| Subj. Dry HandlingHigher is better | 6th / 6 | 4 Points | -6.00 Points |
| Wet BrakingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 114 ft | +14 ft |
| Wet Braking - CoolLower is better | 6th / 6 | 106 ft | +15 ft |
| Wet HandlingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 117.52 s | +10.17 s |
| Subj. Wet HandlingHigher is better | 6th / 6 | 6 Points | -4.00 Points |
| Straight AquaHigher is better | 6th / 6 | 42.4 mph | -3.0 mph |
| Curved AquaplaningHigher is better | 6th / 6 | 5.7 ft/s² | -1.6 ft/s² |
| Snow BrakingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 60 ft | +3 ft |
| Snow TractionLower is better | 4th / 6 | 5.42 s | +0.26 s |
| Snow HandlingLower is better | 6th / 6 | 81.53 s | +3.25 s |
| Subj. Snow HandlingHigher is better | 5th / 6 | 9 Points | -1.00 Points |
| Ice BrakingLower is better | 4th / 6 | 32 ft | +1 ft |
| Ice TractionLower is better | 4th / 6 | 4.82 s | +0.32 s |
| Subj. ComfortHigher is better | 6th / 6 | 7 Points | -3.00 Points |
| NoiseLower is better | 6th / 6 | 75 dB | +3.60 dB |
| Rolling ResistanceLower is better | 1st / 6 | 8.65 kg/t | Best in this discipline |
- EU Label
- C/C/72
- 3PMSF
- Yes
- Tread
- 7.5 mm
- Price
- 62.85




Fascinating and interesting how much better the summer tire is in those niche areas...would love to know which summer tire was used out of interest, suspect a Conti?
I haven’t seen any coverage of Continental WinterContact 8 S yet.
Would it be a better choice than Michelin PA5 in wider sizes - 255 and 275/35R19?
The S range are intended for OE, we need to wait for the 8P sadly
Hmmm, interesting. Because i see it available for purchase already, without any special OE markings.
Meanwhile, I’m struggling to find aftermarket non OE marked PA5 in those two sizes.
I have asked Continental and they said there will be no non-OE marked 8S made, so it seems like it would be a retailer listing error. Maybe have them double check.
I'm looking at the official Continental page (for Germany) as well as different retailers. Looks to me it's the opposite of being OE-only. Not sure what's happening. I'm kind of willing to go for it, to try them instead of Michelin PA5. I'm running a larger size than usual for 330e - 255/35R19 in the front, and 275/35R19 in the back.
Continental WinterContact 8 S product range here .
Direct link to a label without OE mention:
https://www.contimediacenter.com/eulabel/en/03202300000/
Another label with mention of OE (a different tire) as an example: https://www.contimediacenter.com/eulabel/de_DE/03143590000/
https://uploads.disquscdn.c...
I don't disagree with your findings, I'm just telling you what I know.
What I'm assuming is that it is basically an OE based tire without the marking. It sounds like in the sizes you're running, that probably wouldn't be a bad thing as I'm assuming you have a big / powerful car. An OE winter tire like this will be more focused on good handling in the dry and wet so would give up some snow performance to an pure aftermarket tire, but will be much more stable on big powerful applications. Depending on your target use that could be a big win. But then so could the ASC2.
Personally I like new and shiney so I'd get the 8S
Thank you for your insight and feedback! As well as wealth of knowledge you’re sharing with us!
I’ll pull the trigger on the 8S, I too like new and shiny! I’ll definitely leave a review how 8S handles 420HP and 750Nm on the rear axle. :)
Excellent, look forward to the review!
Jonathan, I am quite sure I am missing something here. The Cross Climate 2 is basically on the same level as the best winter tires in snow/ice and better/way better in wet/dry.
The CrossClimate was only the reference for the snow as it wasn't the best in the dry and wet, they are other tires
A winter tire test without Nokian is like a German car test without Mercedes.
What's the point testing a winter tire in 23,5 Celsius?
For comparison with best case conditions of summer tires.
But I agree, dry testing at 0C would be more beneficial for the test
inability to control the weather
Great review, just ordered Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 for my E 53 AMG, to be installed next week.
On my previous car, for 5 years had Pilot Alpin 5, fantastic tire.
Probably a decent choice. I had the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 on my E53 AMG Coupé and they were fantastic. Wet grip and snow performace was the best i have ever experienced on any of my cars. Once it was dry though they worn down super fast although driving 240 kph with winter tires did not help either.
nice, let me know how you like them!
What is the reference all season?
Just what I needed - a review on low-profile all-seasons! After watching the review I'm torn between the Continentals and the Bridgestones for my Mk2 Audi TTS (Quattro) to replace the Goodyear Assym's which very slowly slid me into the curb last snowfall here in the S.E of England... however, I'm still curious about the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 as I just 'like' Hankook, although they don;t appear to be available in a Y rating (can't find a legal answer on dropping the speed rating) - What would you recommend?
I've not tried the hankook in this size, but you can drop speed ratings, just not load ratings.
Why should anyone still buy a pure winter typre (like the winning Alpin5) when the all-season tire CrossClimate2 is even better in snow & ice as the best winer typre ?
It's an interesting question.
That really looks like a testing/measurement error. How can it be that all season tire is better on ice than the best dedicated winter tire?
Compound is key on ice, and a lot of all season tires use a winter compound just with less siping
What about Alpin 7?
Wasn't available in time for this test
Michelin Alpin (insert number) is a touring level tire.
Michelin Pilot Alpin (insert number) is a performance tire.
This test is for performance tires.
What is difference between 870 and 870P?
P is performance versions
Which was the reference AllSeason tire used in the test?
It's the best from each category which can be found in the all season test on this site.
You need to refer to the All-Season test that was done at the same time - the reference all-season tire is the top rated tire for each of the test categories. In other words, it varies. In most cases, it is the Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF-3.
What would you guys recommend for a Mini Cooper in Central Europe?
I just got the car and I've absolutely no idea whether I should get all-season tires, or should I use winter+summer. Any ideas? And if so, what would be the best choice in terms of price and performance?
The data from the winter and all season tests should give you the information to answer this yourself based on your own needs.
Having had time to figure out why are you testing winter tires on dry @ 25C degrees. How about 5 or 0C, which is more realistic usage case...
The answer isn't overly complicated, I've not yet mastered the ability to control the weather sadly.
Hi, in text you mention what is the all season tire you compare to, but I couldn't find info about what was the reference summer tire.
If all season tires are showing so good performance I also consider switching to them, but would like to better understand how they perform comparing to summer ones.
He mentions next article/video will be giving comparison between AS/Winter and Summer - looking forward to see this :)
You can cross reference the best all season tire from each test on this site
So why I should buy winter tires now? If Allseasons are better in dry and wet and on par in snow and ice, I don't see the reason why to buy special winter tires. The best solution seems to be to fit Allseason from oct to april and from may to september fit summers.
No Vredestein Wintrac Pro/Pro+ included?
Sadly there was limited space and as I've tested it a bunch before I thought it would be ok to leave it out. There will be new data on the site in the coming week from other tests.
Just watched the video on YT and also wondered why for example the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 was left out. But it was in last year's review and I just compared some of the tests, seems to be not too far off from the winning duo. Anyways, great test again this year thanks for the work!
Plus probably Bridgestone are rolling out Blizzak 6 currently - not sure this size was available at time of test ... and LM005 might not be on the market for very long with Blizzak 6 arriving right now on the market.
Autobild tested Blizzak 6 very recently on 205/55R16 (not sporty mount I know :( )
I tried to get the B6 but I couldn't get it in time