The best winter tires of 2026 according to test results

The choice of winter tires depends on the vehicle’s operating conditions, wheel size, how often the car is driven on snow, and the characteristics of the specific model. Independent tests measure braking distance on wet, dry, and snow-covered surfaces, traction on snow, handling, resistance to aquaplaning, noise level, rolling resistance, and projected service life.

As of September 2026, the current ranking is based primarily on tests from the 2025/26 season. Auto Express tested eight winter tires in size 225/45 R17, ADAC compared 31 models in size 225/40 R18, and AUTO BILD carried out separate tests for 225/40 R18 and 215/55 R17 tires. Each tire size produces its own results, so the consolidated ranking takes into account the positions of models across several independent tests.

How was the 2026 winter tire ranking compiled?

First place in the consolidated ranking went to winter tires with strong results on snow, wet asphalt, and dry asphalt. Additional weight was given to winter tire models that finished near the top in several independent tests.

The winter tire ranking took the following factors into account:

• braking on snow;
• traction and handling on snow;
• braking on wet asphalt;
• handling in rainy conditions;
• resistance to straight-line and lateral aquaplaning;
• braking and handling on dry roads;
• rolling resistance;
• external noise level;
• projected mileage;
• overall rating awarded by the testing publication.

Auto Express allocated 50% of the overall score to wet-road testing, 20% each to snow and dry asphalt, and the remaining 10% to noise, rolling resistance, and other indicators. ADAC allocated 70% of the score to driving safety and 30% to environmental and operating characteristics.

Consolidated ranking of winter tires for 2026

1. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tires

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tires took first place in the consolidated 2026 winter tire ranking. The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 won the ADAC test in size 225/40 R18 with an overall score of 2.0. ADAC also stated a projected mileage of more than 76,000 kilometers.

In the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 received a score of 1.2 and shared first place with the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3. The publication recorded strong traction on snow, short braking distances, and a low noise level.

In the Auto Express test in size 225/45 R17, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 finished second. The tire achieved the best result in wet braking, snow braking, and acceleration on snow. The braking distance on snow was 40 meters, while acceleration in the snow test took 10 seconds.

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tires are suitable for urban and intercity driving, frequent use on wet asphalt, and regular operation on snow-covered roads.

2. Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 winter tires

The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 tire took first place in the AUTO BILD test in size 225/40 R18. A total of 51 models participated in the test, and the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 received an overall score of 1.1.

The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 demonstrated strong traction on snow, stable lateral grip, short braking distances on wet asphalt, and precise handling on dry roads. AUTO BILD also noted its long service life and low noise level.

In the ADAC test, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 finished second with a score of 2.1. Michelin’s result was only one tenth of a point behind the winning Goodyear tire.

The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 winter tire is aimed at powerful passenger cars, high-speed roads, and drivers who combine winter travel with fast driving on dry asphalt.

3. Continental WinterContact TS 870 winter tires

The Continental WinterContact TS 870 won the Auto Express test in size 225/45 R17. The tire took first place in dry braking, wet-road handling, snow handling, and external noise level.

The braking distance of the Continental WinterContact TS 870 on dry asphalt was 30 meters. In the wet-road handling test, the tire completed the course in 60 seconds. The model achieved the same result in the snow-handling test.

Auto Express awarded the Continental WinterContact TS 870 its third consecutive victory in the publication’s winter tire test. The editors noted precise steering response, stable behavior, and strong results in all major disciplines.

Continental WinterContact TS 870 winter tires are suitable for compact and mid-size cars that are regularly driven on wet, dry, and snow-covered roads.

4. Bridgestone Blizzak 6 winter tires

The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 finished third in both the Auto Express and ADAC tests. In the ADAC ranking, the model received a score of 2.2, while in the Auto Express test the tire entered the top three among eight models.

Bridgestone Blizzak 6 winter tires showed the lowest rolling resistance in the Auto Express test. The result was 8 kg per tonne. The tire also took second place in dry-road handling and third place in wet braking and wet-road handling.

In dry braking, the Bridgestone Blizzak 6 stopped the car in 31.35 meters. In wet braking, the result was 35.57 meters.

The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 winter tire is suitable for long winter trips, urban routes, and drivers who take fuel or electricity consumption into account.

5. Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 winter tires

The Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 shared first place with the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17. Both models received a score of 1.2.

Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 winter tires showed short braking distances on snow and wet asphalt. The tire also received high marks for aquaplaning resistance, dry-road handling, and stable behavior in corners.

In the dry-handling test, the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and Michelin Alpin 7 recorded the same highest average speed among the participants.

Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 winter tires are suitable for compact crossovers and passenger cars used on snow, wet asphalt, and high-speed roads.

6. Continental WinterContact TS 870 P winter tires

The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P took third place in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17. The tire received a score of 1.3 and shared the position with the Vredestein Wintrac Pro+.

AUTO BILD highlighted the balanced characteristics of the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, precise handling, and efficient rolling resistance. In the ADAC test in size 225/40 R18, the model finished sixth with an overall score of 2.5.

The TS 870 P version is designed for powerful passenger cars and crossovers. The tread design supports stability at high speeds and when cornering.

7. Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tires

The Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ finished third in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17 and received a score of 1.3. In the Auto Express test in size 225/45 R17, the tire finished sixth.

Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tires achieved the second-best snow braking result in the Auto Express test. The braking distance was 40.69 meters compared with 40 meters for the winner.

In aquaplaning tests, the Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ finished fourth on the straight section and third in the cornering test. AUTO BILD noted the model’s balanced performance across all major disciplines.

The Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tire is suitable for passenger cars and compact crossovers used on snow-covered and wet roads.

8. Michelin Alpin 7 winter tires

The Michelin Alpin 7 finished fourth in the Auto Express test and sixth in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17.

In the Auto Express test, the Michelin Alpin 7 finished second in dry braking, second in snow handling, and third in acceleration on snow. The braking distance on a dry road was 30.71 meters.

The rolling resistance of the Michelin Alpin 7 was 8.12 kg per tonne. This result secured second place in the corresponding discipline. AUTO BILD gave the model a score of 2.2 and highlighted its performance on snow and low rolling resistance.

Michelin Alpin 7 winter tires are suitable for drivers with high winter mileage and frequent driving on snow.

9. Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ winter tires

The Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ took fifth place in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17. The model received an overall score of 2.1.

The Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ showed a short braking distance on dry roads and low rolling resistance. Kumho’s position in the middle of the group of premium models confirmed a strong balance between price and test performance.

Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ winter tires are suitable for drivers looking for a mid-priced winter tire with balanced characteristics for urban and intercity routes.

10. Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 winter tires

The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 finished seventh in the AUTO BILD test in size 215/55 R17 and received a score of 2.3.

Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 winter tires showed the highest traction in the snow slalom. The tire also received a high rating for ride comfort and behavior on snow-covered roads.

The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 is suitable for urban use, snow-covered roads, and drivers who prioritize comfort during everyday trips.

Which winter tires showed the strongest results on snow?

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tires took first place in snow braking and acceleration on snow in the Auto Express test. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 achieved the best result in snow handling. The Michelin Alpin 7 finished second in handling and third in acceleration.

Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tires achieved the second-best snow braking result. The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 demonstrated the highest traction in the AUTO BILD snow slalom.

Which winter tires showed the strongest results on wet roads

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tires took first place in the Auto Express wet-braking test with a result of 35 meters. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 took first place in wet handling. The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 finished third in both disciplines.

LingLong Sport Master Winter tires achieved the second-best result in both straight-line and lateral aquaplaning, but their high rolling resistance reduced the model’s overall position to fifth place in the Auto Express test.

Which winter tires showed the strongest results on dry asphalt

Continental WinterContact TS 870 winter tires took first place in dry braking in the Auto Express test. The LingLong Sport Master Winter achieved the best result in dry handling. The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 took second place in dry handling, while the Michelin Alpin 7 finished second in dry braking.

The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 winter tire took first place in the AUTO BILD test in the sporty 225/40 R18 size thanks to balanced results on snow, wet roads, and dry roads.

Is it worth buying used winter tires from the 2026 ranking?

Premium used winter tires with even tread wear and sufficient remaining tread depth retain suitable operating characteristics for urban and intercity use, while a set of used tires costs less than new premium tires.

When choosing used winter tires, check the following:

• the same model on all four tires;
• the same tire size;
• tread depth;
• evenness of wear;
• year of manufacture;
• condition of the sidewalls;
• absence of bulges and cuts;
• number of previous repairs;
• load index;
• speed index;
• 3PMSF marking.

The Eurokoleso store offers inspected used winter tires from Goodyear, Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, Hankook, Pirelli, and other manufacturers. A set is selected according to the vehicle’s tire size, remaining tread depth, and winter operating conditions.

The final choice depends on the vehicle’s factory tire size, winter routes, how often the car is driven on snow, and the results of the specific model in the relevant size.

Questions and answers

• Which winter tires took first place in the consolidated 2026 ranking?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 took first place in the consolidated 2026 ranking. The model won the ADAC and AUTO BILD tests and finished second in the Auto Express test.
• Which winter tires showed the shortest braking distance on snow?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 showed the shortest snow braking distance in the Auto Express test. The car stopped in 40 meters on these tires.
• Which winter tires showed the best handling on snow?
  Gontinental WinterContact TS 870 took first place in the Auto Express snow-handling test. The tires provided precise vehicle response and stable cornering.
• Which winter tires showed the strongest result on wet asphalt?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 took first place in wet-asphalt braking. Continental WinterContact TS 870 topped the wet-road handling test.
• Which winter tires showed the shortest braking distance on a dry road?
  Continental WinterContact TS 870 took first place in Auto Express dry braking. The vehicle’s braking distance was 30 meters.
• Which winter tires are suitable for powerful passenger cars?
  Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 is designed for powerful passenger cars and high-speed winter driving. The tires provide stability on dry asphalt, precise handling, and strong traction on snow.
• Which winter tires are suitable for compact crossovers?
  Hankook Winter i*cept RS3, Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, and Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ are suitable for compact crossovers. These models achieved strong results in the 215/55 R17 tire test.
• Which winter tires have the lowest rolling resistance?
  Bridgestone Blizzak 6 showed the lowest rolling resistance in the Auto Express test. The result was 8 kg per tonne.
• How does rolling resistance affect winter tire operation?
  Low rolling resistance reduces fuel consumption and electricity use. Tires with low rolling resistance are suitable for vehicles with high daily mileage.
• Which winter tires have the highest projected service life?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 received a projected mileage of more than 76,000 kilometers in the ADAC test. This result helped the model receive a high score for operating characteristics.
• Which winter tires are suitable for electric vehicles?
  Bridgestone Blizzak 6 is suitable for electric vehicles thanks to low rolling resistance and stable behavior on dry and wet roads. Low rolling resistance helps preserve an electric vehicle’s driving range in winter.
• Which winter tires showed strong resistance to aquaplaning?
  Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ achieved high positions in straight-line and lateral aquaplaning tests. The design of the water evacuation channels provides rapid removal of water from the contact patch.
• Which winter tires are suitable for frequent motorway trips?
  Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, and Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ are suitable for high-speed winter driving. The design of these models supports vehicle stability at high speeds.
• Which winter tires are suitable for urban driving?
  Continental WinterContact TS 870, Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, and Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 are suitable for city routes. These models provide stable braking, ride comfort, and predictable behavior on cleared roads.
• Which winter tires are suitable for snow-covered rural roads?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, Michelin Alpin 7, and Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ are suitable for snow-covered rural roads. These tires showed strong results in braking, acceleration, and handling on snow.
• Which winter tires provide a high level of comfort?
  Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 provides comfortable driving and stable behavior on snow-covered roads. The low vibration level is suitable for everyday city trips.
• Which winter tires belong to the mid-price segment?
  Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ belongs to the mid-price segment. The model finished fifth in the AUTO BILD test and showed balanced results on dry, wet, and snow-covered surfaces.
• Which winter tires offer the strongest price-to-performance ratio?
  Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ and Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 combine a more affordable price with strong results in independent tests. Both models rank highly among mid-price winter tires.
• Why do the results of the same model differ between tests?
  The results of the same model depend on tire size, the test vehicle, temperature, road surface condition, and testing methodology. A 225/45 R17 tire has a different contact patch width and sidewall height than a 225/40 R18 tire.
• What winter tire size was used in the Auto Express test?
  Auto Express tested winter tires in size 225/45 R17. This size is fitted to many compact and mid-size passenger cars.
• What winter tire size did ADAC use?
  ADAC tested winter tires in size 225/40 R18. This size is used on powerful passenger cars and sport-oriented trim levels.
• What winter tire sizes did AUTO BILD use?
  AUTO BILD tested tires in sizes 225/40 R18 and 215/55 R17. The first size is aimed at passenger cars, while the second is common among compact crossovers.
• What characteristics does ADAC use to evaluate winter tires?
  ADAC evaluates driving safety, behavior on dry, wet, and snow-covered roads, service life, rolling resistance, noise, and environmental characteristics. Driving safety accounts for 70% of the overall score.
• What characteristics does Auto Express use to evaluate winter tires?
  Auto Express evaluates braking, acceleration, handling, aquaplaning, noise level, and rolling resistance. Wet-road tests account for half of the overall score.
• Why does wet-road performance make up a large part of winter tire testing?
  Most winter driving in cities takes place on wet or cold asphalt. Wet-road tests show braking distance, resistance to aquaplaning, and vehicle behavior in corners.
• How does tread depth affect winter tire performance?
  Deep grooves remove water, snow, and slush from the contact patch. Intact sipes create working edges that provide grip on packed snow.
• How much remaining tread is needed for used winter tires?
  For winter use, used tires with deep grooves and intact sipes are selected. A tread depth of more than 5 mm provides full operation of the water evacuation channels and snow-biting edges.
• What parameters should be checked when buying used winter tires?
  When buying used winter tires, check the model, tire size, year of manufacture, tread depth, evenness of wear, sidewall condition, number of repairs, load index, speed index, and 3PMSF marking.
• Where can inspected used winter tires be purchased?
  The Eurokoleso store offers used winter tires from Goodyear, Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, Hankook, Pirelli, Vredestein, Kumho, and other manufacturers. Sets are selected according to the vehicle’s tire size, remaining tread depth, and winter operating conditions.
• Which winter tires should be chosen based on the 2026 test results?
  Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 leads the consolidated ranking thanks to strong results on snow, wet roads, and projected service life. Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 is suitable for powerful cars, Continental WinterContact TS 870 provides balanced characteristics, while Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ are strong models in the mid-price segment.