Pirelli Winter Snow Control Series 3 - Test Results

Test Statistics

24

Tests Completed

6^th

Average Position

1^st

Best Result

12^th

Worst Result

Performance Analysis

Pirelli Winter Snow Control Series 3 - Official Image

Across 24 winter tests, the Pirelli Winter Snow Control Series 3 delivers solid, well-rounded performance with standout braking and competent wet capability, complemented by reliable snow manners. It posts multiple top-three finishes (including wins/near-wins in major braking-focused screens) alongside frequent mid-pack results, indicating consistency rather than dominance.
Weaknesses appear around value and longevity, with several notes on wear/price and some lower midfield finishes in larger 205/55 R16 group tests. Overall, it's a balanced winter tire performing best in braking and wet/slush safety metrics, while durability/value and occasional dry or overall handling competitiveness trail class leaders.

Performance Strengths

Braking Performance (Overall/Wet/Snow) Strong Details
• 1/50 in 2013 Winter Tire Overview - Braking
• 4/43 in 2012 Auto Bild 42 Winter Tire Braking Test
• 2/18 overall in 2015 Auto Bild Top 18 (combined snow+wet braking basis)
• 2/15 overall in 2013 Auto Bild Top 15 with praise for wet performance
Wet Weather Performance Moderate Details
• 2013 Auto Bild Top 15: "beats Michelin in the wet"
• Multiple mid-to-upper results in wet-heavy magazines: 5/10 (2014 AMS), 6/11 (2014 AZ)
Snow/Slush Performance Moderate Details
• Top honours in slush test (2012 Auto Zeitung)
• 2/15 overall (2013 Auto Bild Top 15) with strong winter capability noted
Consistency Across Sizes/Years Moderate Details
• Average overall position 6.2 over 24 tests
• Regular top-half finishes: 3/13 (2012 European 165/70 R14), 5/8 (2013 AZ 195/65 R15), 6/14 (2011 AZ 205/55 R16)

Performance Weaknesses

Wear and Value (Price/Cost of Ownership) Strong Details
• 2013 Auto Bild Top 15: "Let down by wear and price"
• Mixed mid-pack outcomes in value-sensitive group tests (e.g., 7/10 2014 Auto Express, 8/14 2014 ADAC 175/65 R14)
Dry/Overall Handling Competitiveness in Larger Sizes Moderate Details
• 7/9 (2012 EVO 205/55 R16)
• 12/16 (2012 European 205/55 R16)
• 6/8 (2012 Auto Zeitung 205/55 R16)
• 7/8 (2012 Auto Express 205/55 R16)
Result Variability Across Tests Minor Details
• Range from podiums (2/18 in 2015 Auto Bild, 2/15 in 2013 Auto Bild) to low-mid results (10/17 in 2013 ADAC 185/60 R15, 9/14 in 2014 ADAC 195/65 R15)

Performance Over Time

Test History

of 18

2015 Auto Bild Top 18 Winter Tire Test

2015
Winner: Continental WinterContact TS 850

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