Continental WinterContact TS 870 P vs Kumho Winter Craft WP52
- TR Score
- 9.3/10
- Owners say
- 85% · 33
- TR Score
- 8.3/10
- Owners say
- 68% · 9
In the 8 independent tests that ran both tires, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P finished ahead 7 times and the Winter Craft WP52 once. The WinterContact TS 870 P had 13% lower rolling resistance; the Winter Craft WP52 lasted 21.4% longer in the wear tests.
Data updated
Which should you buy?
Choose Continental WinterContact TS 870 P for wet-dominant or mixed winters, maximum safety margins, and efficiency-minded driving (including EVs). Choose Kumho WinterCraft WP52 if you prioritize lower purchase cost and longer tread life in milder, mostly cold-dry conditions with only occasional snow.
Where the WinterContact TS 870 P is stronger
- Outstanding wet performance with short braking and superior aquaplaning resistance
- Consistently strong snow and ice braking and traction
- Low rolling resistance for better fuel economy/EV range
Where the Winter Craft WP52 is stronger
- Excellent wear and strong longevity/value proposition
- Competitive dry braking/handling in some sizes
- Generally low purchase price
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 Winter Craft WP52 at a glance
| Category | WinterContact TS 870 P | Gap | Winter Craft WP52 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared tests won8 shared tests | 7 | 1 | |
| Dry10 measurements | 5 | 4 | |
| Wet25 measurements | 23 | The WinterContact TS 870 P held 25.8% more grip in curved aquaplaning (4 tests) | 2 |
| Snow20 measurements | 16 | The WinterContact TS 870 P stopped 3.2% shorter on snow (8 tests) | 3 |
| Ice1 measurement | 1 | 0 | |
| Comfort4 measurements | 3 | The WinterContact TS 870 P was 1.1 dB quieter (3 tests) | 1 |
| Value7 measurements | 5 | The WinterContact TS 870 P had 13% lower rolling resistance (4 tests) | 2 |
| Tire Reviews Scoreevery test and review we hold | 9.3/10 | The WinterContact TS 870 P by 1.0 | 8.3/10 |
| Owner rating33 and 9 reviews | 85% | The WinterContact TS 870 P by 17 points | 68% |
| Would buy againshare of owners | 83% | The WinterContact TS 870 P by 20 points | 63% |
| Pricein the 5 tests that listed prices | +48.3% | The WinterContact TS 870 P was dearer in 5 of 5 | Cheaper |
| Sizes madeEU label registrations | 121 | 46 sizes made in both | 84 |
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 8 tests, 2022 to 2025
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 | Winter Craft WP52 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Winter Tire Braking Test - 52 Sets! | P13 of 51 | P4 of 51 | |
| 2024 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tire Test | P2 of 12 | P7 of 12 | |
| 2024 ADAC 17 inch Winter Tire Test | P6 of 16 | P12 of 16 | |
| 2023 Sports Cars Winter Tire Test | P3 of 11 | P7 of 11 | |
| 2023 Winter Tire Test 54 Set Braking Test | P7 of 54 | P25 of 54 | |
| 2023 Tire Reviews Winter Tire Test | P3 of 11 | P9 of 11 | |
| 2022 Auto Bild Winter Tire Test | P8 of 20 | P17 of 20 | |
| 2022 Winter Tire Market Overview | P2 of 56 | P19 of 56 |
Performance profile
14 measurements from the 8 shared tests, each tire shown as its share of the better figure in every test.
Where each is furthest ahead
WinterContact TS 870 P
Winter Craft WP52
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. 11 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
Winter Craft WP52
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
Winter Craft WP52
Not ahead in any category
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Winter Craft WP52 68% from 9. 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 | Winter Craft WP52 | Wins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 140 | 0.2% | 140 | 2-2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 71.4 | 0.1% | 71.45 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 68.5 | 0.1% | 68.6 | 1-2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 3.2% | scored | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 123 | 3.9% | 128 | 7-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 125 | 5.7% | 133 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 58.09 | 3.5% | 60.19 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 49.1 | 2.4% | 48 | 3-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 3.2% | scored | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 14.02 | 4.4% | 14.66 | 2-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 52.7 | 3.9% | 50.8 | 5-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 9.8 | 25.8% | 7.8 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 78 | 3.2% | 81 | 7-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 5.91 | 1.2% | 5.98 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 432 | 2% | 419 | 3-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 87.61 | 0.9% | 86.79 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 36 | 1.7% | 35.4 | 3-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| scored | = | scored | 0-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 12.2 | 3.2% | 11.8 | 2-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 54 | 2.9% | 56 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 11.1% | scored | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 71.5 | 1.1 dB | 72.6 | 2-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 22,957 | 21.4% | 27,282 | 0-2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 7.56 | 13% | 8.7 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 64 | 9.9% | 71 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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 Winter Craft WP52 8.3 out of 10.
| WinterContact TS 870 P | Category | Winter Craft WP52 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94 | Dry | 93 | ||
| 92 | Wet | 68 | ||
| 77 | Comfort | 21 | ||
| 76 | Value | 72 | ||
| 73 | Snow | 38 | ||
| 30 | Ice | 56 | ||
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 | Winter Craft WP52 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.6 | Dry Grip | 7.7 | ||
| 9 | Wet Grip | 6.8 | ||
| 8.1 | Road Feedback | 6.9 | ||
| 8.7 | Handling | 7.1 | ||
| 8.7 | Wear | 6.8 | ||
| 8.9 | Comfort | 7.3 | ||
| 8.7 | Snow Grip | 7.3 | ||
| 7.8 | Ice Grip | 5.3 | ||
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Winter Craft WP52 68% from 9. 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.
Kumho Winter Craft WP52
- 68%from 9 reviews
- 63%would buy again
- 97,000 milesdriven by reviewers
Drivers find the Kumho Winter Craft WP52 to deliver strong dry grip and handling with generally good snow traction, making it a solid value purchase. Wet performance is adequate but not standout, with several users noting longer wet braking distances or a vague feel. Noise can be higher than average for some, though overall comfort is acceptable. Overall sentiment is moderately positive with a few recurring caveats in the wet.
- dry grip and handling
- snow traction
- value for money
- average-to-weak wet braking/grip
- increased road noise
Summarised by AI from 6 vetted reviews; the reviews themselves are on the tire page.
All 9 Winter Craft WP52 reviewsThey were not at all suitable for my car, which has a diesel engine and higher torque. I drive mostly in the city, and they showed signs of fraying as early as the first winter. I experienced the same issue with Hankook tires in the past. For those who drive a more powerful car or one with high torque, I would recommend something that holds up better to conditions in cities with less snow.
Sizes, EU label and lineage
From the EU label registrations for each tire: 121 sizes of the WinterContact TS 870 P and 84 of the Winter Craft WP52, 46 of them made in both.
| Category | WinterContact TS 870 P | Winter Craft WP52 |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Winter | Winter |
| Sizes made | 121 sizes, 16 to 23 inch | 84 sizes, 13 to 21 inch |
| Made in both | 46 sizes 205/60 R16215/60 R16215/65 R16225/55 R16235/60 R16205/45 R17205/50 R17205/55 R17205/60 R17215/55 R17215/60 R17215/65 R17and 34 more | |
| EU label wet grip | B99%C1% | B86%A14% |
| EU label rolling resistance | C62%B37%D1% | C67%D30%B3% |
| EU label noise | 70-75 dB B100% | 71-72 dB B100% |
| Severe snow (3PMSF) sizes | 221 of 221 | 298 of 298 |
| Replaced | Continental WinterContact TS 860 S (2017) | Kumho Winter Craft WP51 |
| 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) | - |
| Price in the shared tests | The WinterContact TS 870 P was the dearer tire in 5 of the 5 tests that listed prices, by 48.3% 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 pitches two distinct winter philosophies against each other: Continental's WinterContact TS 870 P, an ultra-high-performance (UHP) winter tire aimed at drivers who prioritize precision and safety margins, versus Kumho's WinterCraft WP52, a value-driven premium-touring option focused on comfort, longevity, and price. Across eight shared tests from 2022-2025, the Continental consistently benchmarks near the front of the field, while the Kumho delivers solid, budget-friendly competence.
The data reveal clear patterns. Continental dominates wet performance (braking, handling, and especially aquaplaning) and is reliably stronger on snow and ice, often by meaningful margins. Kumho counters with quieter running in some tests, excellent wear, and a much lower purchase price-making it a compelling choice for cost-conscious drivers who spend more time on dry/cold roads than in heavy rain or deep winter conditions.
Conclusion
Continental's TS 870 P is the more complete winter performer. It wins 7 of 8 shared tests overall and leads decisively in wet braking and aquaplaning (often 4-38% advantages in aquaplaning metrics), while also edging snow and ice stops in most sizes. It pairs those safety reserves with low rolling resistance-useful for fuel economy and EV range-and maintains strong dry control for a UHP winter product.
Kumho's WP52 earns its place through value: notably lower price, very good wear (often class-leading), and agreeable day-to-day manners. It can match or beat Continental in isolated dry metrics and occasionally noise, but its wet grip and aquaplaning reserves lag, which is a critical winter safety pillar. If budget and longevity top the list and your climate skews cold-dry with light snow, Kumho makes sense; for mixed or wet winter climates-or drivers who want maximum security and efficiency-Continental is the safer, more rounded choice.
WinterContact TS 870 P vs Winter Craft WP52: your questions
Is the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P or the Kumho Winter Craft WP52 the better tire?
In the 8 independent tests that ran both tires, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P finished ahead 7 times and the Winter Craft WP52 once. On the Tire Reviews Score, which weighs every test and review we hold, the WinterContact TS 870 P scores 9.3 and the Winter Craft WP52 8.3 out of 10.
Which is better in the wet, the WinterContact TS 870 P or the Winter Craft WP52?
The WinterContact TS 870 P led 23 of the 25 wet measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it held 25.8% more grip in curved aquaplaning across 4 tests.
Which is better in the dry?
The WinterContact TS 870 P led 5 of the 10 dry measurements the shared tests recorded.
Which is better in snow?
The WinterContact TS 870 P led 16 of the 20 snow measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 3.2% shorter on snow across 8 tests.
Which lasts longer and costs less to run?
The WinterContact TS 870 P had 13% lower rolling resistance (4 tests); the Winter Craft WP52 lasted 21.4% longer in the wear tests (2 tests). Owners rate wear 8.7/10 for the WinterContact TS 870 P and 6.8/10 for the Winter Craft WP52.
Which is quieter and more comfortable?
The WinterContact TS 870 P was 1.1 dB quieter (3 tests). Owners rate comfort 8.9/10 for the WinterContact TS 870 P and 7.3/10 for the Winter Craft WP52.
What do owners say?
Owners rate the WinterContact TS 870 P 85% from 33 reviews and the Winter Craft WP52 68% from 9. 83% of WinterContact TS 870 P owners would buy it again, against 63% for the Winter Craft WP52.
Which is more expensive?
In the 5 tests that listed prices, the WinterContact TS 870 P was the dearer tire in 5 of them, by 48.3% 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 Winter Craft WP52 in 84 (13 to 21 inch). 46 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 Winter Craft WP52 B and C.
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Run either of these?
Your review is the part of this page no test can supply: how the tire wore, how it aged, what it was like in the rain in year three. It takes about five minutes.
Review the WinterContact TS 870 P Review the Winter Craft WP52
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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