Continental WinterContact TS 870 P vs Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
- TR Score
- 9.3/10
- Owners say
- 85% · 33
- TR Score
- 9.3/10
- Owners say
- 85% · 14
In the 4 independent tests that ran both tires, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV finished ahead 2 times and the WinterContact TS 870 P once, with one level. The WinterContact TS 870 P had 17% lower rolling resistance; the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV stopped 1.7% shorter in the dry.
Data updated
Which should you buy?
Choose Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV for frequent snow, mountain driving, and maximum braking/comfort. Choose Continental WinterContact TS 870 P for wet-heavy winters, long motorway use, EV/hybrid efficiency, and stronger aquaplaning safety with near-top grip elsewhere.
Where the WinterContact TS 870 P is stronger
- Lowest rolling resistance on test (≈10-26% advantage), strong for EV range and fuel economy
- Outstanding curved aquaplaning resistance; very safe wet margins
- Balanced handling with dynamic dry stability; frequent wins in dry/wet handling laps
Where the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV is stronger
- Best-in-test snow package (braking, traction, handling) across all shared tests
- Consistently shortest dry braking; very strong wet braking
- Lowest exterior noise and highest subjective comfort
The bullet points are analysis of the shared tests and of owner reviews; the measured wins in each discipline are in the tables below. Where the two disagree, the figures are right.
WinterContact TS 870 P vs Pilot Alpin 5 SUV at a glance
| Category | WinterContact TS 870 P | Gap | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared tests won4 shared tests | 1 | 1 level | 2 |
| Dry9 measurements | 3 | The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV stopped 1.7% shorter in the dry (4 tests) | 5 |
| Wet20 measurements | 9 | The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV stopped 0.5% shorter in the wet (4 tests) | 10 |
| Snow15 measurements | 1 | The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV stopped 2.4% shorter on snow (4 tests) | 14 |
| Comfort6 measurements | 0 | The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV was 1.5 dB quieter (4 tests) | 6 |
| Value4 measurements | 4 | The WinterContact TS 870 P had 17% lower rolling resistance (4 tests) | 0 |
| Tire Reviews Scoreevery test and review we hold | 9.3/10 | Level | 9.3/10 |
| Owner rating33 and 14 reviews | 85% | Too close to call | 85% |
| Would buy againshare of owners | 83% | The WinterContact TS 870 P by 19 points | 64% |
| Pricein the 2 tests that listed prices | +2.8% | The WinterContact TS 870 P was dearer in 1 of 2 | Cheaper |
| Sizes madeEU label registrations | 121 | 49 sizes made in both | 71 |
Wins count every measurement the shared tests recorded for both tires; a tick marks the tire ahead on that line. Subjective driver scores count as wins but are never averaged, because each test uses its own scale.
Head to head in 4 tests, 2023 to 2024
Each row is one published test in which both tires ran on the same car, in the same size, on the same day. The line is the whole field, winner on the left.
| Test | WinterContact TS 870 P | Field | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 AS SUV Winter Tire Test | P2 of 10 | P1 of 10 | |
| 2023 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tire Test | P1 of 10 | P1 of 10 | |
| 2023 Tire Reviews SUV Winter Tire Test | P1 of 9 | P2 of 9 | |
| 2023 AMS SUV Winter Tire Test | P4 of 7 | P3 of 7 |
Performance profile
12 measurements from the 4 shared tests, each tire shown as its share of the better figure in every test.
Where each is furthest ahead
WinterContact TS 870 P
Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
In each test the better of the two figures counts as 100% and the other as its share of it, so a 118 ft stop against 112 ft is 95%; each spoke averages the shared tests that recorded it. The scale stops at 95%: a point further in sits on the hub's edge, hollow. 12 measurements recorded in only one shared test are left off; every measurement is in the table further down.
Where each scores higher
WinterContact TS 870 P
Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
Category scores are percentiles among tires of the same season and class: 90 means this tire out-performs 90% of them, measured across every test we hold, not only the ones it appeared in.
Where owners rate each higher
WinterContact TS 870 P
Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 85% from 14. Each spoke is one question owners answer out of 10; reviews are vetted by hand before publication.
Every measurement, side by side
Averages of the figures both tires posted in the same tests. The gap is the average of each test's own gap, so figures from different cars and years are never mixed. Open a discipline for its measurements, and a measurement for every test's figure.
| Measurement | WinterContact TS 870 P | Gap | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV | Wins | ||||||||||||||||
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| 142 | 1.7% | 140 | 0-4 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 66.28 | 0.5% | 66.61 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 67.8 | 0.8% | 67.2 | 2-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| scored | = | scored | 0-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 123 | 0.5% | 122 | 1-3 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 73.45 | 0.1% | 73.55 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 46.9 | 0.2% | 47 | 1-2 | |||||||||||||||||
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| scored | = | scored | 0-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 16.1 | 0.5% | 16 | 1-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 16.2 | 0.6% | 16.11 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 49.7 | 0.6% | 50.1 | 1-3 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 11.6 | 12.3% | 10.5 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 78 | 2.4% | 76 | 0-4 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 3.68 | 4.1% | 3.53 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 239 | 4.4% | 250 | 0-3 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 90.85 | 2.4% | 88.65 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 31 | 2.3% | 31.7 | 0-3 | |||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 5.3% | scored | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 14.1 | 0.2% | 14.1 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 15.8 | 1.7% | 16.1 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 5.3% | scored | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 5.3% | scored | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 72.38 | 1.5 dB | 70.85 | 0-4 | |||||||||||||||||
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| 6.84 | 17% | 8.24 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||
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Braking distances and lap times are better when lower; speeds, wear and grip figures when higher. A test's figures are its own: sizes, cars, surfaces and temperatures differ from one to the next, which is why the averages here are only ever of tests the two tires shared. "Scored" rows are subjective driver ratings: each test uses its own scale, so only the wins are counted.
Scores beyond the shared tests
On the Tire Reviews Score, which weighs every test and review we hold, the WinterContact TS 870 P scores 9.3 and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 9.3 out of 10.
| WinterContact TS 870 P | Category | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94 | Dry | 81 | ||
| 92 | Wet | 85 | ||
| 77 | Comfort | 99 | ||
| 76 | Value | 26 | ||
| 73 | Snow | 96 | ||
| 30 | Ice | - | ||
Category scores are percentiles among tires of the same season and class: 90 means this tire out-performs 90% of them, measured across every test we hold, not only the ones it appeared in.
What owners say
| WinterContact TS 870 P | Category | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.6 | Dry Grip | 9.1 | ||
| 9 | Wet Grip | 8.6 | ||
| 8.1 | Road Feedback | 8.3 | ||
| 8.7 | Handling | 8.6 | ||
| 8.7 | Wear | 8.5 | ||
| 8.9 | Comfort | 8.6 | ||
| 8.7 | Snow Grip | 8.3 | ||
| 7.8 | Ice Grip | 8.9 | ||
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 85% from 14. Reviews are vetted by hand before publication; ownership is not verified.
Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
- 85%from 33 reviews
- 83%would buy again
- 294,700 milesdriven by reviewers
Across 26 owner reviews averaging 85.8%, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P is most consistently praised for strong, confidence-inspiring grip in both the wet and the dry, often paired with a notably quiet, comfortable ride. Many owners also report good longevity for a winter tire, with several noting healthy tread remaining after substantial mileage. Winter performance is generally rated as capable, but a meaningful minority (around two in five of those mentioning it) found snow traction lacking, and opinions are split on ice grip and steering feel; a small number also note it can feel softer when temperatures rise.
- Strong wet grip and confident wet cornering
- Strong dry grip with secure traction
- Noticeably quiet on the road
- Comfortable, supple ride quality
- Snow traction not as strong as expected for some drivers
- Ice grip is inconsistent depending on conditions
- Steering feel not the sharpest
Summarised by AI from 26 vetted reviews; the reviews themselves are on the tire page.
All 33 WinterContact TS 870 P reviewsI've driven the tires in the winter, but on roads devoid of snow and ice so I can't comment on that. They made me feel very secure, however, I have to say that they are far too sporty for my driving style and needs. They carry a lot of responsibility for my decision to buy the car, as they are very comfortable, quiet and make the car feel very surefooted and responsive in the dry and in the wet.
There is one gripe, though, they have absolutely no rim protection, so I blame them for all the scratching on my wheels. I would expect more from a tire of this class from a reputable brand, and, honestly, it is a strong enough reason (albeit the only one) for me not to buy them again. In every other aspect they are brilliant, they even equal summer tires in fuel consumption.
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
- 85%from 14 reviews
- 64%would buy again
- 119,200 milesdriven by reviewers
Most drivers rate the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV highly, praising its exceptionally quiet ride, strong wet and snow traction, confident handling, and comfortable ride. Many also highlight low wear and long tread life. A minority of users, however, report inconsistent traction on snow/slush with certain vehicles. Overall sentiment is strongly positive for winter performance and refinement.
- very low noise
- strong snow traction
- wet grip and braking
- ride comfort
- inconsistent snow/slush traction on some vehicles
Summarised by AI from 11 vetted reviews; the reviews themselves are on the tire page.
All 14 Pilot Alpin 5 SUV reviewsDefinitely better and more comfortable than any winter Continental or Goodyear I've had in the past.
Sizes, EU label and lineage
From the EU label registrations for each tire: 121 sizes of the WinterContact TS 870 P and 71 of the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV, 49 of them made in both.
| Category | WinterContact TS 870 P | Pilot Alpin 5 SUV |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Winter | Winter |
| Sizes made | 121 sizes, 16 to 23 inch | 71 sizes, 17 to 23 inch |
| Made in both | 49 sizes 225/60 R17225/65 R17235/60 R17235/65 R17225/60 R18235/55 R18235/60 R18255/55 R18255/60 R18265/60 R18225/55 R19235/50 R19and 37 more | |
| EU label wet grip | B99%C1% | C75%B22%D2% |
| EU label rolling resistance | C62%B37%D1% | C78%D18%B5% |
| EU label noise | 70-75 dB B100% | 68-74 dB B74%A26% |
| Severe snow (3PMSF) sizes | 221 of 221 | 85 of 85 |
| On the market since | - | 2017 |
| Replaced | Continental WinterContact TS 860 S (2017) | - |
| Replaced by | Continental WinterContact 8 S | - |
| Awards | Highly Recommended: Best Winter SUV Tire (DriverReviews, 2025/26) Winner: Best Winter SUV Tires (DriverReviews, 2024/25) Winner: Winter Tire of the Year (WhatTire, 2024) | Highly Recommended: Best Winter SUV Tires (DriverReviews, 2024/25) |
| Price in the shared tests | The WinterContact TS 870 P was the dearer tire in 1 of the 2 tests that listed prices, by 2.8% on average. Each test priced the tires in its own market at the time; only the gap is comparable. | |
Label grades are shown as the share of registered sizes carrying each grade, so "B (88%), C (12%)" means most sizes are B. Grades vary by size; check the label for yours.
Reading the results
Written from the test results and owner reviews above. It is analysis, not a measurement: where it and the tables disagree, the tables are right.
This head-to-head pits two standout ultra-high-performance winter tires tuned for heavier vehicles: Continental's WinterContact TS 870 P and Michelin's Pilot Alpin 5 SUV. Across four shared SUV-focused tests in sizes from 225/60 R18 to 255/45 R20, both routinely finish at the top-often separated by fine margins.
The data sketches a clear pattern: Michelin consistently stops shorter on dry and snow, is quieter and more comfortable, and feels especially secure on snow. Continental counters with class-leading rolling resistance, outstanding curved aquaplaning safety, and very balanced wet/dry handling that frequently matches or edges Michelin. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize snow-led security and refinement (Michelin) or efficiency and wet safety margins (Continental).
Conclusion
Both tires earn repeated "very good" verdicts and trade victories, but their personalities differ. Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV is the snow specialist with the shortest dry and snow stopping distances across all tests, excellent subjective comfort/noise, and surefooted handling in winter conditions-ideal for alpine use and frequent snow days. Continental WinterContact TS 870 P delivers a rare blend of strong all-round grip with clearly the lowest rolling resistance and the best curved aquaplaning resistance, making it the efficiency and wet-safety pick, especially compelling for EVs or long motorway winters.
If you drive mostly in cold, mixed conditions with regular snow and value quiet refinement, choose Michelin. If your winters are wet/cold with occasional snow-or you prioritize range/fuel economy and high-speed wet security-choose Continental. The practical takeaway: Michelin maximizes grip and comfort; Continental maximizes efficiency and wet reserves, while staying very close on overall grip.
WinterContact TS 870 P vs Pilot Alpin 5 SUV: your questions
Is the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P or the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV the better tire?
In the 4 independent tests that ran both tires, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV finished ahead 2 times and the WinterContact TS 870 P once, with one level. On the Tire Reviews Score, which weighs every test and review we hold, the WinterContact TS 870 P scores 9.3 and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 9.3 out of 10.
Which is better in the wet, the WinterContact TS 870 P or the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV?
The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV led 10 of the 20 wet measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 0.5% shorter in the wet across 4 tests.
Which is better in the dry?
The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV led 5 of the 9 dry measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 1.7% shorter in the dry across 4 tests.
Which is better in snow?
The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV led 14 of the 15 snow measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 2.4% shorter on snow across 4 tests.
Which lasts longer and costs less to run?
The WinterContact TS 870 P had 17% lower rolling resistance (4 tests). Owners rate wear 8.7/10 for the WinterContact TS 870 P and 8.5/10 for the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV.
Which is quieter and more comfortable?
The Pilot Alpin 5 SUV was 1.5 dB quieter (4 tests). Owners rate comfort 8.9/10 for the WinterContact TS 870 P and 8.6/10 for the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV.
What do owners say?
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV 85% from 14. 83% of WinterContact TS 870 P owners would buy it again, against 64% for the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV.
Which is more expensive?
In the 2 tests that listed prices, the WinterContact TS 870 P was the dearer tire in 1 of them, by 2.8% on average. Prices are the test's own at the time, in its own market.
Are they available in the same sizes?
The WinterContact TS 870 P is made in 121 sizes (16 to 23 inch) and the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV in 71 (17 to 23 inch). 49 sizes are available in both. On the EU label the WinterContact TS 870 P is graded B for wet grip and C for rolling resistance in most sizes; the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV C and C.
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Review the WinterContact TS 870 P Review the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
Where this data comes from
Finishing positions and measurements are transcribed from each published test. A test only counts here when both tires ran in it, so every figure was recorded on the same car, size and day as the one it is compared to.
About the TR Score
The Tire Reviews Score rates each tire out of 10 from every independent test result and vetted owner review we hold, so two tires can be compared even before a test has run them together.
Who does the testing
Every test published as a Tire Reviews test is run by Jonathan Benson, who has been testing tires independently since 2007.
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