2025 Autobild SUV All Season Tire Test

For 2025 Auto Bild Allrad (the SUV and 4x4 version of the magazine) have tested eleven tires in the 215/55 R17 size. This dimension is commonly fitted to compact SUVs and crossovers, including models such as the VW T-Roc, Seat Ateca, Skoda Karoq, Toyota Yaris Cross, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Fiat 500X. The test was conducted on a VW T-Roc and included both summer and winter reference tires to benchmark the all-season performance.

The Vredestein Quatrac claimed the overall victory with a grade of 1.2, earning the "exemplary" rating. It demonstrated the most balanced performance across all conditions, with particular strength in wet braking where it stopped 66 feet shorter than the worst performer from 62 mph. The Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6 secured second place with a grade of 1.3, showing consistent performance across all disciplines and excelling particularly in dry conditions.

The surprise of the test came from Ceat with its 4 SeasonDrive X5, which tied for third place with the Hankook Kinergy 4S² (both scoring 1.4). The Indian manufacturer delivered what Auto Bild described as the best price-performance ratio in the test, offering consistently good results across all categories at approximately €340, making it substantially cheaper than many competitors. The Ceat proved particularly strong in dry handling and showed no significant weaknesses beyond slightly elevated noise levels and minor compromises in curved aquaplaning.

Performance Consistency and Outliers

The Kleber Quadraxer 3 presented an interesting case of specialization versus balance. As a second brand of Michelin, it achieved the best snow performance in the entire test, matching or exceeding the reference winter tire in handling and slalom tests. However, this winter focus came at the cost of wet performance, where it suffered from early aquaplaning onset and extended braking distances, ultimately limiting its overall grade to 2.4 despite its winter excellence.

The Goodyear Vector 4 Seasons Gen-3, despite being the most expensive tire in the test at approximately €600, only managed sixth place with a grade of 2.4. While it performed well in snow and showed good wet grip, it disappointed in dry conditions, particularly in braking where only the Arivo and Viking performed worse. This represented a significant weakness for a premium-priced product.

Reference Tire Insights

Auto Bild included both dedicated summer and winter reference tires to provide context for the all-season performance. In wet braking from 62 mph, the summer reference stopped at 180 feet, while the winter reference required 256 feet. The best all-season tire, the Vredestein, stopped at 190 feet, just three meters behind the summer specialist. In dry braking from 62 mph, the summer tire achieved 115 feet versus the winter tire's 142 feet, with the best all-season (Linglong) stopping at 121 feet.

The snow testing revealed that several all-season tires approached winter tire performance levels. The Kleber actually exceeded the winter reference in snow handling (64.7 mph versus 64.0 mph average speed) and slalom (1.92 m/s² versus 3.69 m/s²). The Vredestein matched the winter tire's snow braking performance at 73 feet from 31 mph. This demonstrates how far all-season tire technology has progressed, with premium models now delivering winter specialist levels of grip in snowy conditions.

Underperformers and Safety Concerns

The Arivo Carlorful A/S finished last with a grade of 4.9 and a "not recommended" verdict. Auto Bild highlighted the dangerous wet braking performance, where the tire required 256 feet to stop from 62 mph - matching the winter reference tire's distance and representing a full 66 feet (more than four car lengths) behind the Vredestein. The tire also showed poor wet handling characteristics, scoring a grade of 5 (inadequate), making it unpredictable in wet conditions.

The Linglong Grip Master 4S achieved tenth place with a grade of 3.4. Despite showing the best dry braking performance in the test, it suffered from inconsistent behavior elsewhere, particularly weak snow traction and compromised wet handling. The Viking FourTech Plus scored 3.2, showing acceptable snow performance but weakness in dry conditions with extended braking distances and vague handling that led to a downgrade.

Mid-Pack Performers

The GT Radial ClimateActive and Nexen N'blue 4Season 2 both received "good" ratings with grades of 2.3 and 2.4 respectively. The GT Radial offered strong value at approximately €340, avoiding any serious weaknesses though showing slightly extended wet and dry braking distances. The Nexen demonstrated good all-round capability, but its aquaplaning performance proved to be its limiting factor, with onset occurring at relatively low speeds compared to competitors.

Auto Bild's testing methodology emphasized that achieving "exemplary" status required excellence across all conditions, with grades of 2- or worse in snow performance, and individual grades of 3+ or worse in safety-relevant disciplines preventing the top rating. The test confirmed that modern premium all-season tires can deliver winter specialist levels of snow performance while maintaining reasonable summer capability, though compromises remain inevitable in this technically challenging product category.

Dry

The Linglong Grip Master 4S delivered the shortest dry braking distance, though it couldn't maintain this performance advantage in other disciplines, while the Viking FourTech Plus required the longest stopping distance among the all-season tires.

Hankook Kinergy 4S² dominated dry handling, closely followed by Bridgestone, while the budget Arivo managed the poorest dry handling performance in the test.

Wet

Vredestein Quatrac excelled in wet braking, stopping a dangerous distance shorter than the Arivo Carlorful A/S—a difference equivalent to more than four car lengths that highlights the safety risks of budget tires.

Vredestein maintained its wet performance advantage in handling, while the Arivo again proved hazardous with the slowest speed, highlighting its fundamentally compromised wet weather capability.

Vredestein completed the wet circular track fastest, demonstrating the most consistent overall wet performance of any tire in the test, whereas Arivo's time confirmed its struggles with lateral grip in wet conditions.

Viking FourTech Plus achieved the highest aquaplaning resistance, with Vredestein close behind, while the Arivo's early onset of aquaplaning represented a significant safety concern in heavy rain.

Viking again led the curved aquaplaning test, ahead of Vredestein, while Arivo recorded the poorest result—continuing its pattern of dangerous wet weather deficiencies.

Snow

Vredestein and Kleber Quadraxer 3 both delivered the shortest snow braking distances, nearly matching the reference winter tire's performance, while Linglong required the longest distance among all-season competitors.

Vredestein recorded the highest average traction force on snow, with Kleber and Goodyear closely matched behind it, while Linglong's result represented significantly compromised traction for single-axle drive vehicles.

Kleber Quadraxer 3 achieved the highest average speed in snow handling, actually surpassing the reference winter tire, whereas Arivo managed the slowest speed—though its snow performance was notably better than its wet weather showings.

Kleber demonstrated exceptional agility in the snow slalom, outperforming even the reference winter tire, though Linglong's result indicated overly stiff behavior that compromised snow grip.

Comfort

Most tires performed similarly in the comfort category, with scores ranging from 2 to 2-, indicating generally good ride comfort across the board. The Arivo was the only tire to receive a notably worse rating of 3+, suggesting a harsher ride quality that complemented its other performance deficiencies, while the remaining tires all delivered comparable comfort levels with no clear standout performer.

Vredestein produced the quietest pass-by noise, shared with Viking, while Ceat generated the highest noise level—though this remained within acceptable limits and didn't significantly impact its overall strong performance.

Value

Goodyear Vector 4 Seasons Gen-3 achieved the lowest rolling resistance, indicating superior fuel efficiency, while Linglong's result represented the highest resistance and potentially increased fuel consumption over the tire's lifetime.

Results

1^st

Vredestein Quatrac

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Test Winner / Exemplary Testsieger / vorbildlich

The Vredestein Quatrac emerges as the test winner and a true all-rounder that delivers balanced and safe performance across every surface condition. This tire excels particularly in wet conditions, offering the shortest braking distances and excellent aquaplaning resistance, making it exceptionally trustworthy when rain arrives. On snow, it performs admirably with strong traction and handling characteristics that inspire confidence in winter conditions. While it shows slightly longer braking distances on dry roads compared to some competitors, the Quatrac maintains composed handling and provides good ride comfort throughout. The tire's ability to find the perfect balance between summer and winter capabilities without significant compromises makes it an exemplary choice for drivers seeking year-round security and versatility.

Dry95.2%

Wet99.1%

Snow98.1%

Comfort95.6%

Rolling Resistance95.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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	8th / 11	133 ft	+12 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	3rd / 11	57.5 mph	-0.5 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	1st / 11	190 ft	Best in this discipline
Wet HandlingHigher is better	1st / 11	51.8 mph	Best in this discipline
Wet CircleLower is better	1st / 11	16.14 s	Best in this discipline
Straight AquaHigher is better	1st / 11	48.2 mph	Best in this discipline
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	2nd / 11	9.1 ft/s²	-1.3 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	1st / 11	73 ft	Best in this discipline
Snow TractionHigher is better	1st / 11	789 lbf	Best in this discipline
Snow HandlingHigher is better	2nd / 11	63.8 mph	-0.9 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	8th / 11	12.5 ft/s²	-0.9 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 11	7.3 Points	-0.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	1st / 11	70.4 dB	Best in this discipline
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	6th / 11	7.67 kg/t	+0.36 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/72

3PMSF

Yes

Price

550.00

2^nd

Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Exemplary vorbildlich

The Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6 secures second place by consistently finding the golden middle ground across all disciplines, making it particularly reliable on dry roads. This tire demonstrates its engineering prowess through balanced performance that never strays too far from optimal in any condition. On dry surfaces, it delivers excellent braking performance and precise handling that will satisfy drivers who enjoy spirited driving. In wet conditions, the Bridgestone maintains strong grip and predictable behavior, though it requires slightly more caution than the very best in heavy rain. Snow performance is solid and reassuring, providing good traction and stable handling. The main trade-offs come in the form of slightly reduced comfort levels and somewhat higher noise levels compared to competitors, though these remain within acceptable ranges for most drivers.

Dry99.1%

Wet96.4%

Snow96.4%

Comfort92.5%

Rolling Resistance92.7%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	123 ft	+2 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	2nd / 11	57.8 mph	-0.2 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	4th / 11	201 ft	+11 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	2nd / 11	50.6 mph	-1.2 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	2nd / 11	16.19 s	+0.05 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	4th / 11	47.4 mph	-0.8 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	4th / 11	8.6 ft/s²	-1.8 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	6th / 11	76 ft	+3 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	5th / 11	774 lbf	-15 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	4th / 11	63.3 mph	-1.4 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	9th / 11	12.5 ft/s²	-0.9 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	7th / 11	7 Points	-1.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	6th / 11	72.2 dB	+1.80 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	10th / 11	7.89 kg/t	+0.58 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/70

3PMSF

Yes

Price

590.00

Joint 3^rd

Hankook Kinergy 4S2

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Exemplary vorbildlich

The Hankook Kinergy 4S² stands out as a dry-road dynamicist that also cuts an extremely confident figure across snow-covered surfaces. This tire particularly impresses with its sharp, responsive handling on dry pavement, delivering the kind of precision that makes everyday driving engaging and predictable. The Korean manufacturer has clearly prioritized driver involvement, as the tire communicates road conditions effectively and responds eagerly to steering inputs. On snow, the Hankook maintains this composed character with reassuring traction and stable handling. However, the compromise for these strengths appears in slightly weaker wet performance, where braking distances extend a bit and handling becomes less precise than the category leaders. Ride comfort is good, making it a well-rounded choice for drivers who prioritize dry and winter performance over ultimate wet-weather capability.

Dry97.1%

Wet94.7%

Snow96.4%

Comfort94.7%

Rolling Resistance97.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	129 ft	+8 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	1st / 11	58.0 mph	Best in this discipline
Wet BrakingLower is better	7th / 11	205 ft	+15 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	6th / 11	49.6 mph	-2.2 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	5th / 11	16.34 s	+0.20 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	7th / 11	45.7 mph	-2.5 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	6th / 11	8.4 ft/s²	-2.0 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	4th / 11	75 ft	+2 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	6th / 11	757 lbf	-32 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	6th / 11	62.1 mph	-2.6 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	5th / 11	12.9 ft/s²	-0.5 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 11	7.3 Points	-0.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	5th / 11	71.8 dB	+1.40 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	4th / 11	7.51 kg/t	+0.20 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/72

3PMSF

Yes

Price

490.00

Joint 3^rd

Ceat 4 SeasonDrive X5

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Best Value Winner / Exemplary Preis-Leistungs-Sieger / vorbildlich

The Ceat 4 SeasonDrive X5 emerges as the surprise candidate of the test, offering the best price-to-performance ratio while delivering consistently good results across all conditions. This Indian manufacturer has clearly done its homework, producing a tire that challenges established brands while costing significantly less. The Ceat performs admirably on dry roads with confident handling and reasonable braking, while wet performance remains reassuringly predictable even if not class-leading. Snow capability is solid, providing the security needed for winter driving without drama. The tire offers good ride comfort, making it pleasant for daily use. Minor weaknesses appear in curve aquaplaning performance and slightly elevated noise levels, but these are small prices to pay for such impressive overall competence at this price point. For budget-conscious drivers unwilling to sacrifice safety, the Ceat represents exceptional value.

Dry97.8%

Wet95.8%

Snow93.7%

Comfort93.4%

Rolling Resistance98.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	125 ft	+4 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	6th / 11	57.2 mph	-0.8 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	2nd / 11	198 ft	+8 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	4th / 11	50.5 mph	-1.3 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	3rd / 11	16.31 s	+0.17 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	6th / 11	46.2 mph	-2.0 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	8th / 11	7.9 ft/s²	-2.5 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	10th / 11	82 ft	+9 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	9th / 11	746 lbf	-43 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	6th / 11	62.1 mph	-2.6 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	6th / 11	12.8 ft/s²	-0.6 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 11	7.3 Points	-0.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	11th / 11	73.7 dB	+3.30 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	2nd / 11	7.44 kg/t	+0.13 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/72

3PMSF

Yes

Price

340.00

5^th

Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Good gut

The Goodyear Vector 4 Seasons Gen-3 positions itself as a snow specialist that also delivers high performance levels in wet conditions. This tire particularly excels in winter scenarios, offering outstanding traction, confident handling, and short braking distances on snow-covered roads that approach dedicated winter tire capabilities. In wet conditions, the Goodyear maintains strong performance with predictable handling and good aquaplaning resistance. However, this winter-focused optimization comes at a cost on dry roads, where extended braking distances prevent the tire from achieving a better overall result. The handling on dry pavement remains acceptable but lacks the sharpness of more summer-biased competitors. For drivers in regions with harsh winters who still need occasional dry-road capability, the Goodyear makes a compelling case, though those in milder climates might find better-balanced alternatives.

Dry94.2%

Wet95.9%

Snow97.3%

Comfort99.2%

Rolling Resistance100%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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	9th / 11	135 ft	+14 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	7th / 11	57.1 mph	-0.9 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	4th / 11	201 ft	+11 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	3rd / 11	50.6 mph	-1.2 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	4th / 11	16.32 s	+0.18 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	8th / 11	45.4 mph	-2.8 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	3rd / 11	8.8 ft/s²	-1.6 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	3rd / 11	75 ft	+2 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	3rd / 11	788 lbf	-1 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	2nd / 11	63.8 mph	-0.9 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	10th / 11	12.3 ft/s²	-1.1 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	1st / 11	8 Points	Best in this discipline
NoiseLower is better	4th / 11	71.6 dB	+1.20 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	1st / 11	7.31 kg/t	Best in this discipline

EU Label

B/B/70

3PMSF

Yes

Price

600.00

Joint 6^th

GT Radial ClimateActive

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Good gut

The GT Radial ClimateActive presents itself as a budget-friendly option that avoids any serious weaknesses across the performance spectrum. This tire demonstrates that affordable doesn't necessarily mean compromised, delivering competent performance in all conditions without standing out in any particular discipline. Dry road manners are predictable with acceptable handling and braking, while wet performance remains reassuringly stable if not exceptional. Snow capability provides adequate security for winter driving needs. The GT Radial maintains reasonable comfort levels and acceptable noise characteristics. While it shows slightly extended braking distances on wet roads and somewhat less precise handling on dry surfaces compared to premium options, the tire never feels dangerous or unpredictable. For practical-minded drivers seeking dependable all-season performance without premium pricing, the ClimateActive delivers honest capability.

Dry95.5%

Wet94.9%

Snow95.8%

Comfort92.5%

Rolling Resistance96.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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	7th / 11	132 ft	+11 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	5th / 11	57.3 mph	-0.7 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	6th / 11	204 ft	+14 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	8th / 11	49.6 mph	-2.2 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	7th / 11	16.36 s	+0.22 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	5th / 11	46.4 mph	-1.8 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	5th / 11	8.5 ft/s²	-1.9 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	7th / 11	77 ft	+4 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	7th / 11	750 lbf	-39 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	9th / 11	61.2 mph	-3.5 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	3rd / 11	13.3 ft/s²	-0.1 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	7th / 11	7 Points	-1.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	6th / 11	72.2 dB	+1.80 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	5th / 11	7.59 kg/t	+0.28 kg/t

EU Label

C/A/70

3PMSF

Yes

Price

340.00

Joint 6^th

Nexen N Blue 4Season 2

215/55 R17 98W XL

Auto Bild Allrad Good gut

The Nexen N'blue 4Season 2 establishes itself as a versatile performer with good capabilities in both snow and dry conditions. This Korean tire demonstrates solid engineering with predictable handling characteristics that inspire confidence across varied conditions. On snow, it provides reassuring traction and stable behavior, while dry road performance remains competent with acceptable braking and composed handling. The tire offers good ride comfort, making it pleasant for daily driving duties. However, weaknesses emerge in wet conditions, where aquaplaning resistance begins at relatively low speeds, requiring extra caution during heavy rain. The handling in the wet also lacks the precision and confidence of better-performing competitors. For drivers who primarily face dry and winter conditions with only occasional wet weather, the Nexen represents a reasonable compromise, though those in frequently rainy climates should consider alternatives.

Dry97.2%

Wet94.1%

Snow96%

Comfort95.6%

Rolling Resistance93.1%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	126 ft	+5 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	9th / 11	57.0 mph	-1.0 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	8th / 11	205 ft	+15 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	6th / 11	49.6 mph	-2.2 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	6th / 11	16.35 s	+0.21 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	9th / 11	44.7 mph	-3.5 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	9th / 11	7.8 ft/s²	-2.6 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	8th / 11	78 ft	+5 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	8th / 11	747 lbf	-42 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	5th / 11	62.4 mph	-2.3 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	3rd / 11	13.3 ft/s²	-0.1 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 11	7.3 Points	-0.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	2nd / 11	70.5 dB	+0.10 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	9th / 11	7.85 kg/t	+0.54 kg/t

EU Label

C/A/72

3PMSF

Yes

Price

470.00

8^th

Kleber Quadraxer 3

215/55 R17 98W XL

The Kleber Quadraxer 3, a second brand from Michelin, reigns as the undisputed snow king with outstanding performance on winter tire levels, while also maintaining competent dry road manners. This tire delivers exceptional snow traction, handling, and braking that rivals dedicated winter tires, making it ideal for drivers facing serious winter conditions. The handling on snow is particularly impressive, offering confidence-inspiring precision and stability. Dry performance remains good with acceptable braking and handling characteristics. However, this winter optimization creates significant compromises in wet conditions, where the Kleber shows weaknesses that lead to its downgrade in overall scoring. Braking distances on wet roads extend notably, and handling becomes less predictable when water is present. For drivers in alpine regions or areas with guaranteed heavy snowfall who rarely encounter rain, the Kleber's winter excellence might outweigh its wet-weather limitations.

Dry97.4%

Wet92.5%

Snow97.8%

Comfort92.2%

Rolling Resistance98.3%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	126 ft	+5 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	8th / 11	57.0 mph	-1.0 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	10th / 11	214 ft	+24 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	10th / 11	48.2 mph	-3.6 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	10th / 11	16.51 s	+0.37 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	3rd / 11	47.5 mph	-0.7 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	7th / 11	8.0 ft/s²	-2.4 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	1st / 11	73 ft	Best in this discipline
Snow TractionHigher is better	1st / 11	789 lbf	Best in this discipline
Snow HandlingHigher is better	1st / 11	64.7 mph	Best in this discipline
Snow SlalomHigher is better	11th / 11	12.1 ft/s²	-1.3 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	7th / 11	7 Points	-1.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	9th / 11	72.6 dB	+2.20 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	2nd / 11	7.44 kg/t	+0.13 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/69

3PMSF

Yes

Price

520.00

9^th

Viking Fourtech+

215/55 R17 98W XL

The Viking FourTech Plus positions itself as an affordable snow specialist delivering good wet road performance as well. This Continental second brand demonstrates solid winter capabilities with reassuring traction and stable handling on snow-covered surfaces. Wet performance is notably competent, providing predictable behavior and reasonable braking distances. The tire offers acceptable ride comfort for everyday use. However, significant weaknesses appear on dry roads, where extended braking distances and somewhat vague handling lead to its overall downgrade. The tire feels less precise and communicative on dry pavement compared to competitors, requiring drivers to adjust their expectations. For budget-conscious drivers in regions with mild winters and frequent rain who rarely push hard on dry roads, the Viking offers acceptable performance, though the slightly higher-priced Ceat provides better overall balance.

Dry93.6%

Wet97%

Snow96.2%

Comfort92.4%

Rolling Resistance93.5%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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	11th / 11	136 ft	+15 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	10th / 11	56.9 mph	-1.1 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	3rd / 11	200 ft	+10 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	5th / 11	50.0 mph	-1.8 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	9th / 11	16.47 s	+0.33 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	2nd / 11	47.9 mph	-0.3 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	1st / 11	10.4 ft/s²	Best in this discipline
Snow BrakingLower is better	4th / 11	75 ft	+2 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	4th / 11	777 lbf	-12 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	8th / 11	61.3 mph	-3.4 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	7th / 11	12.7 ft/s²	-0.7 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	7th / 11	7 Points	-1.00 Points
NoiseLower is better	8th / 11	72.4 dB	+2.00 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	8th / 11	7.82 kg/t	+0.51 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/72

3PMSF

Yes

Price

410.00

10^th

Linglong Sport Master 4S

215/55 R17 98V XL

The Linglong Grip Master 4S presents itself as an affordable option with appealing dry road capabilities and good wet performance. On dry surfaces, the Chinese tire surprisingly delivers excellent braking performance, standing out with impressively short stopping distances. It also demonstrates competent wet road behavior with reasonable handling and braking. The tire provides acceptable ride comfort for daily driving. However, this dry-road excellence cannot be replicated in other disciplines, revealing significant compromises. The handling on dry roads, despite good braking, feels somewhat disconnected and vague. More critically, the Linglong struggles noticeably on snow with extended braking distances and uncertain handling that undermines confidence in winter conditions. The relatively high rolling resistance also impacts fuel efficiency. For drivers in mild climates with minimal winter weather who prioritize dry braking performance, the Linglong offers niche appeal at a budget price.

Dry99.5%

Wet93.4%

Snow92.2%

Comfort94%

Rolling Resistance90.7%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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 / 11	121 ft	Best in this discipline
Dry HandlingHigher is better	4th / 11	57.4 mph	-0.6 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	9th / 11	206 ft	+16 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	9th / 11	49.0 mph	-2.8 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	8th / 11	16.37 s	+0.23 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	10th / 11	44.2 mph	-4.0 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	10th / 11	7.7 ft/s²	-2.7 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	11th / 11	85 ft	+12 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	11th / 11	712 lbf	-77 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	10th / 11	60.3 mph	-4.4 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	1st / 11	13.4 ft/s²	Best in this discipline
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	2nd / 11	7.3 Points	-0.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	10th / 11	72.8 dB	+2.40 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	11th / 11	8.06 kg/t	+0.75 kg/t

EU Label

C/B/69

3PMSF

Yes

Price

320.00

11^th

Arivo Carlorful AS

215/55 R17 98W XL

The Arivo Carlorful A/S represents the cheapest candidate in the test, managing acceptable snow performance but failing dramatically in critical safety areas. While the tire delivers budget-friendly pricing and performs reasonably well on snow-covered roads, these minor positives cannot overcome its serious deficiencies. The most alarming weakness appears in wet braking, where the Arivo stops a dangerous 66 feet longer than the test winner from 62 mph—that's more than four car lengths of additional stopping distance that could mean the difference between a near-miss and a serious accident. The wet handling is equally concerning, feeling unpredictable and untrustworthy when roads are damp. Dry handling also disappoints with vague feedback and imprecise responses. The relatively high rolling resistance further diminishes its value proposition. Bargain hunters who choose this tire to save money are gambling with their safety and that of others—a risk no responsible driver should take when better budget options like the Ceat and GT Radial exist.

Dry93.4%

Wet84.7%

Snow94.5%

Comfort82.6%

Rolling Resistance94.8%

Category scores (% of best)

All discipline results (14)

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	10th / 11	136 ft	+15 ft
Dry HandlingHigher is better	11th / 11	56.6 mph	-1.4 mph
Wet BrakingLower is better	11th / 11	256 ft	+66 ft
Wet HandlingHigher is better	11th / 11	45.0 mph	-6.8 mph
Wet CircleLower is better	11th / 11	16.97 s	+0.83 s
Straight AquaHigher is better	11th / 11	43.7 mph	-4.5 mph
Curved AquaplaningHigher is better	11th / 11	7.4 ft/s²	-3.0 ft/s²
Snow BrakingLower is better	9th / 11	79 ft	+6 ft
Snow TractionHigher is better	10th / 11	742 lbf	-47 lbf
Snow HandlingHigher is better	11th / 11	59.7 mph	-5.0 mph
Snow SlalomHigher is better	2nd / 11	13.3 ft/s²	-0.1 ft/s²
Subj. ComfortHigher is better	11th / 11	5.3 Points	-2.70 Points
NoiseLower is better	3rd / 11	71.1 dB	+0.70 dB
Rolling ResistanceLower is better	7th / 11	7.71 kg/t	+0.40 kg/t

EU Label

C/C/71

3PMSF

Yes

Price

240.00