To test nine of the best, Auto Bild equipped a Golf GTI with the recommended 225/45 R17 winter tyre size in V rating, and subjected them to handling, braking and comfort tests in the dry, wet and snowy conditions.
The Results
Winter tires of the highest class with the best traction and shortest braking distances on snow, secure handling in wet conditions and excellent cornering and short braking distances, very quiet, good aquaplaning properties
Total: 46
Dry
7
Wet
8
Snow
9
Comfort
7
Rolling Resistance
7
Noise
8
The Pirelli has a balanced winter profile with superb dynamic properties and good traction on a snowy and wet track, exemplary steering precision, stable running and good grip in all weather conditions
Total: 43
Dry
7
Wet
7
Snow
9
Comfort
7
Rolling Resistance
6
Noise
7
Convincing all-rounder with good winter qualities and short wet braking distances, stable handling and steering precision with good lateral grip on dry roads. Best ride comfort in the test
Total: 47
Dry
8
Wet
7
Snow
7
Comfort
8
Rolling Resistance
10
Noise
7
Safe handling in all weather conditions, good traction and short braking distances on snow Quiet.
Slightly longer braking distances and average cornering on wet track
Total: 41
Dry
7
Wet
6
Snow
8
Comfort
6
Rolling Resistance
7
Noise
7
Good aquaplaning properties, dynamic handling and high steering precision on dry roads, low rolling resistance
Weaknesses in driving performance on snowy and wet roads
Total: 38
Dry
6
Wet
6
Snow
7
Comfort
5
Rolling Resistance
7
Noise
7
Excellent confidence with the fastest lap time, good steering precision and shortest stopping distance on a dry track. Stable driving characteristics in the wet, low rolling resistance
Limited aquaplaning, wet slightly longer braking distances
Total: 41
Dry
8
Wet
6
Snow
6
Comfort
7
Rolling Resistance
8
Noise
6
The Toyo is a winter tire with good traction and delay on snowy slopes, convincing handling in all weather conditions; low noise
Slightly long wet braking distances, increased rolling resistance, average comfort
Total: 38
Dry
6
Wet
6
Snow
8
Comfort
5
Rolling Resistance
5
Noise
8
Short stopping distances and high traction on snow, good aquaplaning safety reserves, low rolling resistance
Weak cornering on snow; understeer with slow steering response; moderate comfort
Total: 39
Dry
5
Wet
6
Snow
7
Comfort
5
Rolling Resistance
10
Noise
6
Balanced safe handling and good traction on wet road, low rolling resistance and a low noise level
Only average handling; understeering driving behavior on wet and snow-covered roads
Total: 41
Dry
6
Wet
7
Snow
6
Comfort
6
Rolling Resistance
8
Noise
8
I see they didn't put in Hakkapaliitta R2.. hmmmm.
That's a nordic winter tyre, a grade above the tyres in this test.
Shouldn't the nokian be above the hankook?
Auto Bild weight the scoring in favour of snow and ice performance which means in Auto Bilds final result the Hankook beat the Nokian, even with a lower overall score.