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The best winter tyres of 2026 according to the tests

This ranking brings together independent winter tyre tests from the 2023 to 2026 seasons: the ADAC tests (also published by the Austrian club ÖAMTC and the Swiss club TCS), the AUTO BILD tests and the AUTO ZEITUNG test. Each test covers one specific tyre size, so positions are only compared within the same test. Braking, traction and handling are measured on snow, wet and dry roads, as well as expected wear and fuel consumption. MotorFiable does not score tyres: it reproduces the marks and recommendations as each test publishes them.

According to 17 tests independent tests from ADAC, AUTO BILD and AUTO ZEITUNG, the best winter tyres are the Continental WinterContact TS 870 (9.8/10), the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 (9.7/10) and the Hankook Winter i*cept evo4 (9.5/10). The score summarises the position each one achieved in those tests; it is not our own test.

How we work

Ranking of winter tyres

Based on the tests published since 2023. Each product shows its position and the rating from each test, with a link to the original publication. To enter the ranking, a product must appear in at least 2 tests. How it is calculated

  1. No. 1 · 4 tests

    Continental WinterContact TS 870

    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,2)»Wins the test: precise on dry roads, with large reserves on wet and a good level on snow; expected mileage of about 34,300 km.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #2 of 16 · «gut (2,3)»Very high safety level and short braking distances on dry and wet; slight deductions for precision on dry and for handling on snow.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #1 of 12 · «gut (2,0)»Wins the test: the best safety (1.8), especially on wet and winter surfaces, where no rival matches it; expected mileage 43,800 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,0)»Wins the test: best marks on winter surfaces and wet, with a good environmental mark.
    9.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  2. No. 2 · 8 tests

    Michelin Pilot Alpin 5

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #1 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Very strong on snow and with the longest expected life; it is the most expensive in the test and could be better at cornering aquaplaning.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #1 of 12 · «sehr gut (1,2)»Winner with first-class results across the board; shorter braking distances on snow and dry; it is the most expensive in the test.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #2 of 10 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Excellent winter performance and safe on dry; slightly weaker on wet.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #2 of 10 · «397 Punkte (sehr empfehlenswert)»Good on wet and very good on snow and dry; long life and low consumption (the magazine's environmental recommendation).
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #2 of 31 · «gut (2,1)»Slightly better than the Hankook on winter surfaces (2.1 versus 2.6); balanced across all categories.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #1 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,1)»Versatile, performing well on every surface; it has the highest purchase price.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #1 of 8 · «sehr gut (1,2)»Dynamic handling, the best traction on snow and precise steering; average level for cornering aquaplaning.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #1 of 11 · «sehr gut (1,1)»First-class performance on snow and wet, short braking in any weather and low resistance; high price.
    9.7/10

    according to its position in the tests

  3. Hankook Winter i*cept evo4
    Photo: Hankook

    No. 3 · 2 tests

    Hankook Winter i*cept evo4

    9.5/10

    according to its position in the tests

  4. No. 4 · 3 tests

    Michelin Alpin 6

    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #3 of 12 · «gut (2,3)»Good safety marks, slightly behind the Continental; highest expected mileage in the test (53,200 km), lower wear and low fuel consumption.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #2 of 16 · «gut (2,2)»Very similar to the Goodyear; expected mileage of 61,000 km and a good environmental mark.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,2)»Best dry mark (2.0) and weakest wet mark (2.4); expected mileage 53,300 km.
    9.2/10

    according to its position in the tests

  5. No. 5 · 4 tests

    Pirelli Cinturato Winter 3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #4 of 12 · «gut (1,5)»Very short wet braking distances (also on dry) and low resistance; slightly weaker on snow.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #1 of 14 · «sehr gut (1,3)»King of the wet, with the best aquaplaning resistance and short braking on wet, precise handling; longer braking on dry and high price.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #2 of 10 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Very quiet and very good on wet (handling and braking); slight weaknesses on dry.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,2)»Wins the test: the best safety, especially on wet (short braking distances, aquaplaning reserves and precise handling); well balanced on dry and winter.
    9.0/10

    according to its position in the tests

  6. No. 6 · 14 tests

    Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #5 of 20 · «gut (1,5)»Long expected life and good lateral guidance on snow; longer wet braking and little precision on dry.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #3 of 12 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Snow specialist with high lateral guidance and also strong on wet; slightly weaker on dry than the best.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #2 of 14 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Excellent braking on dry and good performance on snow with low resistance; slightly weaker handling on wet and dry.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #4 of 10 · «gut (1,5)»Shortest braking on dry and very good on snow; slight weakness on wet.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #6 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,3)»Best wet mark (1.9) and weakest dry mark (3.4); expected mileage 32,000 km.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #3 of 16 · «gut (2,4)»Well balanced with a long expected mileage; only slight weaknesses on snow and ice.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #1 of 10 · «414 Punkte (sehr empfehlenswert)»Very good result on all surfaces; wins the test clearly.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #1 of 12 · «sehr gut (1,2)»Versatile and balanced, with excellent traction on snow and very quiet; slower handling on dry.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #1 of 31 · «gut (2,0)»Wins the test: expected mileage of 76,000 km and low wear; brakes on wet shorter than any other tyre (from 80 km/h).
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #5 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,4)»The longest expected life and very good in the rain; slightly weaker on dry.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #2 of 8 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Balanced, high-level performance, very good handling on wet and dry and precise steering; braking on snow could be better.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #2 of 12 · «gut (2,2)»Best winter surface mark (2.0) and weakest dry mark (2.5); expected mileage 49,100 km.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,0)»Wins the test: safety score of 2.1 and the best environmental mark, with expected mileage rated ‘sehr gut’ and a very low weight.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #2 of 11 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Very good on snow and ice, short braking and low resistance; slightly high price.
    8.7/10

    according to its position in the tests

  7. No. 7 · 2 tests

    Pirelli P Zero Winter 2

    8.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  8. No. 8 · 6 tests

    Dunlop Winter Sport 5

    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #4 of 31 · «gut (2,4)»Best environment mark (2.3) and weakest dry mark (2.5); expected mileage 61,300 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #4 of 8 · «gut (1,5)»Convincing in wet tests and the cheapest in the group with the highest mark; slightly more rolling resistance.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #4 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Better on snow, but only average on dry (the ADAC recommends it with reservations).
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #2 of 16 · «gut (2,1)»Very well balanced on dry, wet and winter; safety score 2.1.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #4 of 16 · «gut (2,4)»Best environment mark (1.8) and weakest wet mark (2.6); expected mileage 61,500 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #1 of 16 · «gut (2,2)»Good rolling behaviour and steering response on dry, alongside the Michelin; among the highest expected mileage of the ‘gut’ tyres.
    8.2/10

    according to its position in the tests

  9. Hankook Winter i*cept RS3
    Photo: Hankook

    No. 9 · 8 tests

    Hankook Winter i*cept RS3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #2 of 14 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Fair price and very good against aquaplaning; slightly imprecise handling on wet and dry, and relatively noisy.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #3 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best wet mark (2.0) and weakest environment mark (3.4); expected mileage 27,300 km.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #6 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,7)»Best dry mark (2.3) and weakest environment mark (2.8); expected mileage 39,500 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #1 of 12 · «sehr gut (1,2)»Short braking on snow and wet, good aquaplaning reserves and quick on dry; less potential for energy savings.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #4 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Performs better on ice and snow than on wet; recommended with reservations according to the ADAC.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #4 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best environment mark (2.2) and weakest dry mark (2.8); expected mileage 49,300 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #5 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best wet mark (2.0) and weakest dry mark (2.7); expected mileage 45,700 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #4 of 16 · «gut (2,4)»The best of the ‘gut’ group for those who often drive on winter surfaces.
    8.1/10

    according to its position in the tests

  10. No. 10 · 11 tests

    Continental WinterContact TS 870 P

    7.9/10

    according to its position in the tests

  11. Bridgestone Blizzak 6
    Photo: Bridgestone

    No. 11 · 11 tests

    Bridgestone Blizzak 6

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #5 of 20 · «gut (1,5)»The lightest in the group, with very low rolling resistance; braking on wet and dry only average.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #2 of 12 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Excellent handling on any surface, the greatest lateral guidance on snow and good traction; slightly longer braking on dry.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #2 of 14 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Good on dry and the best on the water circuit; handling on wet and snow slightly less precise and a bit noisier.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #5 of 10 · «gut (1,7)»Low rolling resistance and strong on snow; slight weaknesses on wet and dry.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #5 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best dry mark (2.1) and weakest winter surface mark (2.6); expected mileage 45,900 km.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #4 of 10 · «390 Punkte (sehr empfehlenswert)»Leader on snow, with good grip on wet and maximum efficiency (the magazine's fuel-saving recommendation).
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #7 of 12 · «gut (2,3)»Good performance on snow; long wet braking.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #3 of 31 · «gut (2,2)»Best dry mark (2.1) and weakest winter surface mark (2.5); expected mileage 57,700 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #3 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Sporty, with plenty of lateral guidance on dry and the longest expected life; weaker in corners on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #5 of 8 · «gut (2,1)»The best handling and braking on wet, and very safe and precise on snow; dry braking could be better.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #4 of 11 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Good grip on wet, low resistance and comfortable ride; slightly high price.
    7.3/10

    according to its position in the tests

  12. No. 12 · 3 tests

    Vredestein Wintrac Pro

    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #3 of 16 · «gut (2,4)»Stands out for winter performance; slightly behind the top two on dry, wet and environment.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #6 of 11 · «gut (2,2)»Dynamic on snow and ice with short braking, and balanced handling on wet and dry; moderate aquaplaning reserves and slightly long wet braking.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #5 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best environment mark (2.3) and weakest dry mark (2.7); expected mileage 48,800 km.
    7.0/10

    according to its position in the tests

  13. No. 13 · 4 tests

    Michelin Alpin 7

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #8 of 14 · «gut (1,6)»Best rolling resistance value, quiet and comfortable; the most expensive in the test and slightly longer braking on dry.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #2 of 16 · «gut (2,5)»Very well balanced, slightly behind the Continental in every discipline; slight weakness in handling on snow.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #4 of 16 · «gut (2,5)»Excellent on winter surfaces; slightly less precise steering on dry prevents it from ranking higher.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #6 of 12 · «gut (2,2)»Snow specialist with good winter handling and low resistance; high price.
    6.9/10

    according to its position in the tests

  14. No. 14 · 5 tests

    Kumho WinterCraft WP52+

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #8 of 20 · «gut (1,6)»Brakes well on dry, is cheap and rolls with low resistance; long braking distances on snow and weak on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #2 of 14 · «sehr gut (1,4)»Quiet and cheap, the best at braking on snow and with short wet braking; slightly weaker handling on wet.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #12 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,9)»Weak on dry, which lowers its final mark even though it performs well in winter; expected mileage of about 40,000 km, the highest in this size.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #5 of 12 · «gut (2,1)»Cheap with short braking on dry; few reserves against cornering aquaplaning.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #3 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,3)»Very cheap for its class, good on snow and wet; slightly slow handling on dry.
    6.7/10

    according to its position in the tests

  15. No. 15 · 4 tests

    Dunlop Winter

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #6 of 12 · «gut (1,7)»Very good value for money, among the best on dry and capable on snow; slightly weaker on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #8 of 14 · «gut (1,6)»Very good handling and slalom on snow and economical; slightly weaker handling on wet and less precise on dry.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #8 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,9)»Best environmental mark in the test: lowest wear and about 59,300 km expected; weakest safety mark (3.4).
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #2 of 20 · «sehr gut (1,2)»Good value for money, plenty of traction and guidance on snow; slightly long braking on dry.
    6.2/10

    according to its position in the tests

  16. No. 16 · 6 tests

    Semperit Speed-Grip 5

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #12 of 20 · «gut (2,4)»Plenty of margin against aquaplaning and good guidance on snow; marked down for long braking on dry.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #8 of 14 · «gut (1,6)»Good performance on wet and low resistance; average traction on snow and slightly longer braking on dry.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #14 of 31 · «befriedigend (3,2)»Best wet mark (2.1) and weakest dry mark (3.3); expected mileage 47,900 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #11 of 20 · «gut (2,0)»Balanced on dry and wet; weaker on snow, with little lateral guidance on it.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #4 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best environment mark (1.9) and weakest dry mark (2.9); expected mileage 53,500 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #5 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best environment mark (2.1) and weakest winter surface mark (2.8); expected mileage 55,400 km.
    5.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  17. Hankook Winter i*cept evo3
    Photo: Hankook

    No. 17 · 5 tests

    Hankook Winter i*cept evo3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #8 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,5)»Economical and capable on snow, the best against aquaplaning; long braking on wet, the loudest and highest resistance.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #4 of 31 · «gut (2,4)»Best environment mark (1.9) and weakest winter surface mark (2.6); expected mileage 72,400 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #6 of 20 · «gut (1,6)»Snow expert with good value for money; slightly long braking on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #6 of 8 · «gut (2,3)»Convincing on wet and dry, with good aquaplaning reserves and short wet braking; limited winter qualities with a tendency to understeer.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #5 of 11 · «gut (1,5)»Very good aquaplaning reserves, short braking and low resistance; slightly noisier when passing.
    5.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  18. No. 18 · 4 tests

    Kleber Krisalp HP3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #5 of 20 · «gut (1,5)»Very good traction and handling on snow and cheap; on wet, mediocre.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #7 of 31 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Best winter surface mark (1.9) and weakest wet mark (2.7); expected mileage 52,700 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #14 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,7)»Snow specialist: shorter braking and higher traction; weaker results on wet and dry.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #10 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Best winter surface mark (2.4) and weakest dry mark (3.0); expected mileage 41,700 km.
    5.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  19. No. 19 · 3 tests

    Barum Polaris 6

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    5.6/10

    according to its position in the tests

  20. No. 20 · 5 tests

    Vredestein Wintrac Pro+

    5.5/10

    according to its position in the tests

  21. No. 21 · 3 tests

    BFGoodrich g-Force Winter 2

    4.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  22. No. 22 · 3 tests

    Uniroyal WinterExpert

    4.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  23. No. 23 · 2 tests

    Ceat WinterDrive

    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #10 of 31 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Best winter surface mark (2.0) and weakest dry mark (3.0); expected mileage 64,600 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #15 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Cheapest cost per kilometre and competent on snow and dry; overall weaker on wet.
    4.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  24. No. 24 · 2 tests

    GT Radial WinterPro2 Evo

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    4.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  25. No. 25 · 5 tests

    Giti GitiWinter W2

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #12 of 20 · «gut (2,4)»Reasonable life and low costs; weak handling on snow and when braking on wet.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #16 of 31 · «befriedigend (3,4)»Best wet mark (2.6) and weakest dry mark (3.5); expected mileage 43,700 km.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #9 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best wet mark (2.5) and weakest winter surface mark (3.2); expected mileage 41,100 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #8 of 11 · «befriedigend (2,5)»Very good aquaplaning reserves, low noise and good traction on snow; slightly slow steering response and higher resistance.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #8 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,7)»Best dry mark (2.4) and weakest environment mark (2.9); expected mileage 40,600 km.
    4.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  26. No. 26 · 4 tests

    Falken Eurowinter HS02

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #6 of 14 · «gut (1,5)»Good braking on wet and balanced in the other water tests; longer braking on dry and weaker cornering aquaplaning.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #9 of 12 · «gut (2,4)»Dry specialist; slightly slower handling on snow and wet.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #6 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Performs better on dry than on winter surfaces; recommended with reservations according to the ADAC.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #11 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,0)»Best dry mark (2.2) and weakest winter surface mark (3.1); expected mileage 42,100 km.
    4.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  27. Nokian Tyres Snowproof 2
    Photo: Nokian Tyres

    No. 27 · 3 tests

    Nokian Tyres Snowproof 2

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #11 of 14 · «gut (1,7)»Lowest rolling resistance, plenty of aquaplaning reserves and very quiet; slightly weaker handling and braking on wet.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #8 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,8)»Weak on dry, which lowers its final mark even though it performs well in winter.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #6 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,8)»No particular strengths or weaknesses according to the ADAC; recommended with reservations.
    4.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  28. No. 28 · 4 tests

    Bridgestone Blizzak LM005

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #8 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,8)»Very good on wet (1.4) but imprecise on dry and with little grip on snow; this is the previous model (not the Blizzak 6) and has the lowest expected mileage (about 22,000 km).
    • AUTO BILD · 2023 · 225/60 R18: #6 of 8 · «ausreichend (3,5)»
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #15 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,2)»Better on wet than almost all the others, but weak on snow and ice in this size; expected mileage of about 36,100 km, the lowest in the environment category.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #4 of 16 · «gut (2,4)»Shortest wet braking distance in the test; expected mileage of about five seasons.
    4.2/10

    according to its position in the tests

  29. No. 29 · 3 tests

    Kumho WinterCraft WP52

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    4.2/10

    according to its position in the tests

  30. No. 30 · 3 tests

    Fulda Kristall Control HP2

    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #13 of 31 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best environment mark (2.4) and weakest dry mark (3.4); expected mileage 56,900 km.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #18 of 20 · «befriedigend (3,2)»Good guidance and traction on snow; only adequate performance on wet and longer braking on dry.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #8 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Highest expected mileage in the test (56,000 km, mark 1.3); weak on wet, which leaves it at ‘befriedigend’.
    4.1/10

    according to its position in the tests

  31. No. 31 · 5 tests

    Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #7 of 12 · «gut (2,3)»Very comfortable, with the best traction in the snow slalom; high rolling resistance.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #10 of 20 · «gut (1,9)»Very good grip on wet; imprecise on dry and high price.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #11 of 12 · «ausreichend (3,9)»Brakes well on wet and scores 1.7 on winter surfaces, but is weak on dry and not very precise in steering; no purchase recommendation.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #7 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Best winter surface mark (2.0) and weakest dry mark (2.9); expected mileage 46,600 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #11 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,0)»Best environment mark (2.2) and weakest dry mark (3.3); expected mileage 52,800 km.
    4.0/10

    according to its position in the tests

  32. No. 32 · 4 tests

    Vredestein Wintrac

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #6 of 14 · «gut (1,5)»Quiet, precise on dry and with short wet braking, good on snow; long braking on dry and weaker cornering aquaplaning.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #8 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,8)»Weak on dry, which lowers its final mark even though it performs well in winter.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #10 of 12 · «ausreichend (3,8)»Good on snow but unbalanced: weak on dry; no purchase recommendation from the ADAC.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #12 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best winter surface mark (2.2) and weakest dry mark (3.4); expected mileage 44,700 km.
    4.0/10

    according to its position in the tests

  33. No. 33 · 3 tests

    Matador MP93 Nordicca

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #16 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,6)»High expected life at a good price; long braking distances in rain and soft behaviour on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #7 of 10 · «befriedigend (2,7)»Quiet when passing and very good on snow; weaknesses on wet.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #11 of 31 · «befriedigend (3,0)»Budget range with a ‘befriedigend’ safety rating and slight weaknesses; the ADAC sees it as an acceptable option for those who drive little.
    4.0/10

    according to its position in the tests

  34. Yokohama BluEarth-Winter V906
    Photo: Yokohama

    No. 34 · 4 tests

    Yokohama BluEarth-Winter V906

    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #9 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best dry mark (2.8) and weakest winter surface mark (3.1); expected mileage 49,800 km.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #8 of 10 · «317 Punkte»Holds its own on clear asphalt, but lacks grip on snow and comes last for traction and lateral guidance.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #8 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,9)»Best dry mark (2.1) and weakest environment mark (3.1); expected mileage 35,700 km.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #11 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,0)»Best wet mark (2.4) and weakest winter surface mark (3.0); expected mileage 38,600 km.
    3.9/10

    according to its position in the tests

  35. No. 35 · 2 tests

    GT Radial WinterPro 2 Sport

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #16 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Economical, with good cost per kilometre and low resistance; weak handling on snow and not very precise on dry.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #14 of 31 · «befriedigend (3,2)»Best winter surface mark (2.8) and weakest dry mark (3.3); expected mileage 44,600 km.
    3.9/10

    according to its position in the tests

  36. No. 36 · 2 tests

    Apollo Aspire XP Winter

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #20 of 31 · «ausreichend (4,1)»Unbalanced, like the Maxxis; the ADAC cannot really recommend it.
    • ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #10 of 16 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Best wet mark (2.4) and weakest winter surface mark (2.9); expected mileage 48,800 km.
    3.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

  37. No. 37 · 6 tests

    Firestone Winterhawk 4

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    3.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  38. No. 38 · 2 tests

    Viking WinTech NewGen

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #12 of 20 · «gut (2,4)»Lowest rolling resistance in the test and good on snow; soft on wet and long braking on dry.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #12 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,9)»Weak on dry, which lowers its final mark even though it performs well in winter.
    3.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  39. No. 39 · 5 tests

    Linglong Sport Master Winter

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #7 of 10 · «befriedigend (2,7)»Very good handling on snow, safe on dry and very cheap; weak on wet, which lowers the mark.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #3 of 16 · «befriedigend (3,1)»Best dry mark (2.7) and weakest environment mark (3.2); expected mileage 29,000 km.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #9 of 10 · «309 Punkte»Falls short of expectations; the lowest snow safety in the group and weaknesses on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #10 of 12 · «befriedigend (3,3)»Low purchase price; few reserves for cornering aquaplaning and weaker on snow and wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #19 of 20 · «befriedigend (3,3)»Good performance on dry and economical; less traction on snow, higher resistance and weaknesses on wet.
    3.1/10

    according to its position in the tests

  40. No. 40 · 2 tests

    Petlas SnowMaster 2 Sport

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #16 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,6)»Very cheap and with low rolling resistance; poor grip on wet and long braking distances on snow.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #23 of 31 · «mangelhaft (5,3)»Lack of grip on snow: the car slides very early; the ADAC rates it ‘mangelhaft’.
    2.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  41. No. 41 · 6 tests

    Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    2.3/10

    according to its position in the tests

  42. No. 42 · 2 tests

    Toyo Tires Observe EWS1

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #12 of 14 · «gut (2,4)»Strong on wet and against aquaplaning, precise handling on dry; less traction on snow and worse handling and braking on it.
    • ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #12 of 16 · «mangelhaft (5,3)»Almost on a par with premium brands on dry and wet, but its performance on snow collapses and it does not generate enough lateral guidance; ‘mangelhaft’.
    2.1/10

    according to its position in the tests

  43. Maxxis Premitra Snow WP6
    Photo: Maxxis

    No. 43 · 7 tests

    Maxxis Premitra Snow WP6

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #15 of 20 · «befriedigend (2,5)»Cheap for its lifespan and good at cornering aquaplaning and braking on snow; disappoints when braking on wet.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #10 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,8)»Balanced on wet and dry and cheap; last on snow, with the longest braking of all.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #12 of 14 · «gut (2,4)»Very cheap (the most economical in the test) and very good braking on snow; slightly worse on wet and in handling on snow, with higher resistance.
    • AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #10 of 10 · «305 Punkte»Grips well on snow, but on wet it is very weak: from 100 km/h it was still at almost 40 km/h when the best had already stopped.
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #19 of 31 · «ausreichend (3,7)»Unbalanced, like the Apollo; the ADAC cannot really recommend it.
    • ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #13 of 16 · «ausreichend (3,7)»Weak on dry; no purchase recommendation from the ADAC.
    • AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #11 of 11 · «befriedigend (3,4)»Good aquaplaning reserves and traction on snow; clearly delayed steering response and long braking on wet.
    1.7/10

    according to its position in the tests

  44. No. 44 · 2 tests

    Nexen Winguard Sport 3

    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #9 of 12 · «befriedigend (2,6)»The quietest in the test and short braking on wet; limited reserves against aquaplaning.
    • AUTO BILD · 2026 · 205/55 R16: #14 of 14 · «befriedigend (2,6)»The quietest with low resistance, adequate on snow; weak on wet, with deficits in braking and aquaplaning.
    1.4/10

    according to its position in the tests

  45. No. 45 · 2 tests

    Tomket Snowroad Pro 3

    One of the tests advises against it: read the details.

    • AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #12 of 12 · «mangelhaft (4,8)»Low price; dangerous behaviour on wet and very weak on snow (according to Auto Bild).
    • ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 · «mangelhaft (5,5)»Best environment mark (2.0) and weakest wet mark (5.5); expected mileage 66,500 km.
    0.8/10

    according to its position in the tests

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Tested in only one test

They do not enter the ranking until they appear in more tests: a single result is not enough to compare them.

  • Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV · AUTO BILD · 2023 · 225/60 R18: #1 of 8 («gut (1,6)»)
  • Goodyear UltraGrip Performance + · ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #2 of 16 («gut (2,2)»)
  • Goodyear UltraGrip 9+ · ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #3 of 16 («gut (2,3)»)
  • Momo W-20 North Pole · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #8 of 31 («befriedigend (2,7)»)
  • Nokian Tyres Snowproof P · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #8 of 31 («befriedigend (2,7)»)
  • Optimo Winter Touring OW41 · ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #5 of 16 («befriedigend (3,2)»)
  • Goodyear UltraGrip Performance + SUV · AUTO BILD · 2023 · 225/60 R18: #3 of 8 («gut (1,8)»)
  • ESA+TECAR Supergrip Pro2 · ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #6 of 16 («befriedigend (2,7)»)
  • Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 X · AUTO BILD · 2023 · 225/60 R18: #4 of 8 («gut (2,1)»)
  • Point S Winter S · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #17 of 31 («ausreichend (3,6)»)
  • Nokian Tyres Snowproof 3P · AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #7 of 12 («gut (2,3)»)
  • Zeetex WH 1000 · ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #8 of 12 («ausreichend (3,7)»)
  • Nokian Tyres WR Snowproof · ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #11 of 16 («befriedigend (3,0)»)
  • Radar Dimax Winter · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #21 of 31 («mangelhaft (4,6)»)
  • Sava Eskimo HP2 · ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #11 of 16 («befriedigend (3,0)»)
  • Triangle EffeXWinter TW421 · AUTO ZEITUNG · 2025 · 245/45 R19: #7 of 10 («318 Punkte»)
  • Viking WinTech · ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #11 of 16 («ausreichend (3,6)»)
  • Nankang Winter Activa 4 · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #22 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,2)»)
  • Barum Polaris 5 · ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #12 of 16 («befriedigend (3,1)»)
  • Landsail Winter Lander · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #23 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,3)»)
  • Toyo Tires Observe Winter Sport 1 · AUTO BILD · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #16 of 20 («befriedigend (3,0)»)
  • Aptany RW211 · ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #13 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,4)»)
  • Imperial Snowdragon UHP · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #25 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,4)»)
  • Pirelli P Zero Winter · AUTO BILD · 2024 · 245/45 R18: #9 of 11 («befriedigend (3,0)»)
  • Tracmax Ice-Plus S210 · ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #13 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,4)»)
  • CST Medallion Winter WCP1 · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Evergreen EW66 · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Goodride SW608 · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Star Performer Stratos UHP · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Syron Everest 2 · ADAC · 2025 · 225/40 R18: #26 of 31 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Ceat WinterDrive Sport · AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #7 of 8 («befriedigend (3,2)»)
  • Sunny Winter-max NW611 · ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #14 of 16 («mangelhaft (4,8)»)
  • Triangle WinterX TW401 · ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #14 of 16 («mangelhaft (4,8)»)
  • Prinx Winter Excelia · AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #9 of 10 («befriedigend (3,1)»)
  • Leao Winter Defender HP · AUTO BILD · 2025 · 215/55 R17: #11 of 12 («ausreichend (4,4)»)
  • Atlas Polarbear HP · ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Kenda Wintergen 2 KR501 · ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (4,9)»)
  • Lassa Snoways 4 · ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,2)»)
  • Rockblade Rock 868S · ADAC · 2026 · 185/65 R15: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Royal Black Royalwinter UHP · ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Sunwide Snowide · ADAC · 2026 · 225/50 R17: #15 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Austone Athena SP-901 · ADAC · 2023 · 205/60 R16: #16 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,3)»)
  • Davanti Wintoura + · ADAC · 2024 · 215/55 R17: #16 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,3)»)
  • Kormoran Snow · ADAC · 2023 · 225/45 R17: #16 of 16 («mangelhaft (5,4)»)
  • Lassa Competus Winter 2+ · AUTO BILD · 2026 · 245/45 R19: #20 of 20 («befriedigend (2,7)»)
  • Leao Winter Defender UHP · AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/45 R18: #12 of 12 («ausreichend (4,3)»)
  • Radar Dimax Alpine · AUTO BILD · 2024 · 235/35 R19: #8 of 8 («ausreichend (4,4)»)
  • Superia Bluewin SUV 2 · AUTO BILD · 2023 · 225/60 R18: #8 of 8 («mangelhaft (4,5)»)
  • Winrun Winter-max A1 WR22 · ADAC · 2024 · 205/55 R16: #12 of 12 («mangelhaft (5,5)»)
  • Zeetex WH1000 SUV · AUTO BILD · 2026 · 225/55 R18: #10 of 10 («mangelhaft (4,5)»)

What to look for when buying

  • Find your exact size: each test covers one size. The ADAC only allows applying results to other sizes if the width differs by 10 mm at most, the aspect ratio by 5 points at most, and the rim diameter and construction are the same; results for speed rating V or higher do not apply to lower speed ratings.
  • Don't be swayed by a good snow mark alone: the ADAC and ÖAMTC warn that performing well on snow is not enough for a recommendation if the tyre falls short on wet or dry. Check all three marks (dry, wet and winter surface), not just the final one.
  • Don't rely on the EU label alone: the ADAC points out in its tests that the label does not necessarily reflect overall wet performance.
  • Be wary of entry-level models: in the ADAC's 2025 test (31 tyres in 225/40 R18), all 11 rated ‘mangelhaft’ were from that segment, although two budget models (Matador MP93 Nordicca and Momo W-20 North Pole) achieved ‘befriedigend’ safety.
  • The snowflake symbol (Alpine symbol, 3PMSF) certifies that a tyre is a winter tyre, but not that it is good: the ADAC reminds readers of this in its 2025 test, where several models gripped very poorly on snow or braked badly on ice.
  • Replace winter tyres when the tread depth falls below 4 mm (ADAC recommendation), and avoid buying tyres more than three years old (check the DOT code on the sidewall).

The tests we use

Frequently asked questions

Which winter tyre comes out best in recent tests?

It depends on the size. In the ADAC tests, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 won in 185/65 R15 (2026) and 205/55 R16 (2024), the Pirelli Cinturato Winter 3 won in 225/50 R17 (2026), and the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 won in 225/40 R18 (2025) and 215/55 R17 (2024). AUTO BILD has different winners depending on the size (Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, Hankook Winter i*cept evo4 or RS3, Goodyear, Pirelli or Continental). Check the table for your size.

Is it worth buying a cheap winter tyre?

ADAC data says that, in general, it is not, unless you check the score first. In 2025, the six ‘gut’ tyres were premium models, and all 11 ‘mangelhaft’ tyres were from the entry-level segment. In 2026, in 185/65 R15, 9 of 16 tyres are not recommendable according to the ADAC. There are budget exceptions with ‘befriedigend’ safety (Matador MP93 Nordicca and Momo W-20 North Pole in 2025), which the ADAC sees as an acceptable option for those who drive little.

How does the ADAC score winter tyres?

The final mark is made up of 70% safety (dry 30%, wet 40% and winter surface 30%) and 30% environment (expected mileage 40%, wear 20%, efficiency 20%, noise 10% and sustainability 10%). The scale is: sehr gut 0.6–1.5, gut 1.6–2.5, befriedigend 2.6–3.5, ausreichend 3.6–4.5 and mangelhaft 4.6–5.5. A very low safety mark lowers the final mark.

Are the ADAC, ÖAMTC and TCS marks separate tests?

No: they are the same test. The ÖAMTC publishes it together with its associated organisations, and the TCS publishes results from the same measurements. In 2026, the final ÖAMTC marks we compared match those of the ADAC (for example, Continental WinterContact TS 870 with 2.2 and Michelin Alpin 7 with 2.5 in 185/65 R15). Each club uses its own recommendation terms. On MotorFiable it counts as a single test. Stiftung Warentest (test.de) publishes a summary of the ADAC results.

When should winter tyres be replaced?

The ADAC recommends replacing them when the tread depth falls below 4 mm, because below that value, aquaplaning performance and safety in particular get worse. Its tests also mention Germany's legal minimum tread depth (1.6 mm); check the rules in your country.

How it is calculated

We do not test products or give our own scores: we collect the results published by independent tests (motoring clubs, consumer associations and magazines with their own measurements). In each test, the first product scores 10 and the last scores 0, in proportion to its position; a product’s score is the average of its tests from the last 3 years. A test repeated by several organisations counts only once. No brand pays to appear, and shop commissions do not change the order. Full methodology

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