Leao Winter Defender UHP
The Leao Winter Defender UHP is a low-priced winter tire with occasional dry braking and rolling-resistance advantages. Repeatedly weak wet braking and handling, below-par snow grip and comfort compromises make its overall test record poor.
The Leao Winter Defender UHP has a consistently weak independent test record, with wet braking and handling the main concerns. Auto Bild Sportscars 2026 recorded the longest wet stop, 37.3% behind the best, and advised against it despite a sufficient rating. The 2026 Auto Bild braking qualifier placed it 44th of 50, while the 2023 Tire Reviews winter test also found very long wet stops and slow wet handling. Low purchase price is its clearest attraction, but it did not offset those grip deficits in the testers' verdicts.
The exceptions need qualification. Dry braking was unusually best in the 2023 Tire Reviews SUV test but last in its separate winter comparison that year. Rolling resistance was relatively competitive in both 2023 tests, yet much weaker in Sportscars 2026. Snow grip generally trailed the leaders, including last-place braking and traction in the SUV comparison, even though some later snow margins were smaller. Dry handling also remained weak, and comfort was criticised in more than one test. The occasional advantages do not form a dependable strength across sizes and comparisons.
The quick answer
Built from every independent test result and vetted owner review we hold for this tire - the evidence is all further down the page. Data updated October 2026.
- 4professional tests
- 38sizes available
All Tests
View Test ResultsTested 4 times by independent publications, the Leao Winter Defender UHP averages a finish of 19th.
Finishing position in each test
2026 Auto Bild Sportscars Winter Tire Test P12 of 12
The Leao Winter Defender UHP finished last and was rated sufficient, and Auto Bild advises against it. The price saving does not make up for how poorly it stops and handles in the wet.
| Year | Test | Result | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2026 Auto Bild Sportscars Winter Tire TestAuto Bild Sportscars · 225/45 R18 | P12 / 12 | |
| 2026 | 2026 Winter Tire Braking Test - 50 SetsAuto Bild · 245/45 R19 | P44 / 50 | |
| 2023 | 2023 Tire Reviews SUV Winter Tire TestTire Reviews · 235/60 R18 | P9 / 9 | Tested by Tire Reviews |
| 2023 | 2023 Tire Reviews Winter Tire TestTire Reviews · 225/45 R18 | P11 / 11 | Tested by Tire Reviews |
On the full record: Record by disciplineHead-to-head recordEvery published verdict
Videos
The Best SUV Winter Tire? Nokian, Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, Pirelli & More Tested!
Best 11 Winter Tires for 2023/24 - Tested and Rated
Alternative Tires
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Rim Protection
No rim protector. The sidewall sits flush with the wheel, so a kerb strike goes straight into the rim.
- 225/45 R18None2023 Tire Reviews Winter Tire Test
Dimensions & Label Scores
View AllSize Range38 sizes available
185-315Width35-60Profile15-20Rim82-111 H-VLoad/
EU LabelAcross 38 sizes - the grade depends on the size you buy.
Fuel
Wet
Noise
71-75dB B
3PMSF on every size
Frequently Asked Questions
How good is the Leao Winter Defender UHP in the wet?
How good is the Leao Winter Defender UHP in the dry?
How good is the Leao Winter Defender UHP in the snow?
How fuel efficient is the Leao Winter Defender UHP?
What is the Leao Winter Defender UHP's EU tire label rating?
More questions about the Leao Winter Defender UHP (2)
Does the Leao Winter Defender UHP have a rim protector?
What sizes does the Leao Winter Defender UHP come in?
Owner Questions
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Leao Winter Defender UHP Owner Reviews
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