Spike-02 retained the V-shaped directional tread pattern, but changed the shape of the cross grooves, plus increased the number of sipes. All this allows you to more effectively remove the snow-water porridge from the contact patch, and this makes it possible to confidently drive the car on a snowy road. Improved and rubber compound. According to the Japanese, now the tire does not tan at low temperatures, its wear resistance is increased by 30%.
The tire is produced in 30 sizes. Landing diameter - from 13 to 18 inches.
Friction tires Goodyear and Fulda
In Europe, sales of the new Goodyear UltraGrip Performance SUV Gen-1 tires began in May of this year. Soon they will appear with us. The novelty, in fact, is a Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Gen-1 passenger tire adapted for crossovers, which was put into mass production last year.
The passenger tire received a lot of positive feedback, in particular, it was highly appreciated by experts from TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH. It can be assumed that the tire for crossovers will also be successful.
By the way, this is not the only novelty of the manufacturer. Fulda, owned by GoodYear, showed off the Kristall Control HP2. Recall that under this brand, Americans sell more budget tires.
These tires have replaced the Kristall Control HP, which appeared in 2010. The tread pattern is tricky. In its central part, there is a kind of network consisting of many grooves. This "network" keeps the snow in the contact patch, thereby improving the traction of the tire.
The rubber compound has been improved. Now it is even more resistant to low temperatures and the tire does not tan in severe frost, thereby ensuring good handling. The composition also includes silica (silicon dioxide). It improves grip on wet road.
Dunlop for crossovers
The tire has a new ultra-light stud with a triangular shaped carbide insert. However, it makes no sense to talk in detail about technology. Most of them are already known to us from Conti models. Since it is a premium brand, the latest developments are first used in Continental tires and only then are mastered by brands for more budget segments.
The line includes 64 sizes designed for cars and crossovers.
Continental
There is no news yet about the novelties of the eminent manufacturer. But the concern has already released some "new clothes" under its sub-brands, "playing" in more budget segments. We have already talked about Gislaved, and here is another new model - the budget novelty Matador MP 30 Sibir Ice 2.
Compared to its predecessor Matador Sibir Ice, the tire has a reinforced carcass, and rigid blocks in the shoulder areas of the tread provide good directional stability during maneuvers. Spikes - aluminum with a hard-alloy insert. The "nails" are arranged in such a way that the wear of the spikes and the tread is uniform. That is, the risk of spikes falling out is reduced. The resource of the tire has also increased.
Total available 21 sizes landing diameter 13 to 17 inches.
All-season tires and Velcro from Yokohama
The company presents updated all season tires Geolandar G015 and Velcro IceGuard Studless G075.
Yokohama Geolandar G015 is designed for SUVs and pickups. The cover has been radically updated. A new tread pattern has appeared, the strength of the sidewalls has been increased, the composition of the rubber compound has been redesigned. An icon of a snowy three-mountain peak appeared on the sidewall. This suggests that now the tire can also be used in winter - the rubber does not tan, retaining elasticity even at low temperatures. According to the company representatives, these tires can be used all year round. Even when the temperature rises above 20 degrees Celsius. The novelty is presented in 64 standard sizes.
Tires IceGuard Studless G075 are designed for crossovers and SUVs.
The G075 has a directional tread pattern and the rubber compound absorbs water like a sponge. The original moisture-absorbing composition of the mixture removes the water film from the contact patch, improving the braking properties of the tire. In total, the G075 line has 18 sizes from 16 to 18 inches. Profile: 55–70.
Kumho
South Korean Kumho introduced studded Kumho tire WinterCraft SUV ice WS31 for crossovers. It was created on the basis of a purely passenger car tire Kumho Wi31. The tread patterns are almost identical, so the relationship is immediately visible.
Under the specifics of SUV cars, the novelty has increased the rigidity of the blocks in the tread pattern. Improved handling and braking on ice. Engineers have also worked on optimizing the shape of the drainage grooves. This, in turn, helped improve the tire's slush handling and increased hydroplaning resistance.
Another novelty of the manufacturer is Kumho WinterCraft WP71. These "Velcro" play in the premium segment. The Koreans promise excellent grip and handling on wet and dry roads, as well as on snow. Due to the directional pattern and a large number of sipes, the tires “row” well in loose snow. Available in 42 sizes from 225/50 R16 to 245/45 R19.
Nokian
The majority equals the Finnish tire manufacturers. They are one of the recognized leaders, therefore there is always a special interest in their new products. So, for this winter, Nokian has prepared a non-studded model WR A4, which will replace the WR A3.
The tire has an asymmetric tread design, and a number of changes have been made to the design to improve operational properties. The rubber compound with silica is called Performance Traction Silica. In addition to natural rubber, it contains canola oil, which provides reliable grip in winter conditions. This compound also increases the wear resistance of the tire and improves stability when driving on snow.
The technology of the so-called "snow claws" was also applied: on the longitudinal ribs of the tread lamellas, the edges are made sharp. They also provide additional grip on a snowy road.
Michelin and Kleber
It is still unknown what the company will show under its main, premium brand. But for products aimed at the mid-price segment, there is clarity. First novelty - BFGoodrich g-Force Winter 2, a tire with a directional tread pattern designed for a wide range of passenger cars.
Compared to its predecessor, the g-Force Winter, the new tire has a more aggressive tread pattern and improved grip on snow and wet roads. In the central part of the tread, the maximum number of sharp edges are concentrated, which, clinging to the coating, provide good directional stability.
Kleber, another budget brand owned by Michelin, shows off the Krisalp HP3. This is almost a complete analogue of the BFGoodrich model. Small differences are only in the tread pattern. This tire has replaced the previous model HP2.
The tire is literally cut with drainage grooves that improve the removal of snow and water porridge from the contact patch.
Both models are focused on a wide range of passenger cars - from subcompact cars to minivans.
The review below is rating best models winter studded tires 2015-2016, compiled taking into account the opinions of experts from the four most reputable international and Russian journals: “ Behind the wheel”, Tuulilasi, AutoReview and TestWorld.
In the total world production of automobile tires, rubber, which is intended for use in low temperatures, is about 8%. At the same time, the share of consumption of low-temperature tires in the domestic market reaches 60% and is one of the most profitable areas of the auto business. For operation in the harsh Russian climate, the most suitable are Scandinavian-type tires equipped with a wide tread that pushes ice and snow-covered surfaces well.
Algorithm for testing winter tires and its results 
Tuulilasi tested 8 tire modifications for acceleration and braking in icy and snowy conditions, conducted races on dry and wet highways and investigated the resistance of rubber to slip in a mixture of water and snow.
Za Rulem experts analyzed the 10 most popular winter tire models (175/65 R14) with a cost of no more than 3,700 rubles per unit, guided by the price-quality ratio. 
Specialists AutoReview» tested European-made tires installed on Mercedes class S. Studded and non-studded tires were tested for acceleration and braking using dynamic stability and anti-lock systems. The tests took place in special closed rooms with a large area on sections of roads with various configurations, a dry track and asphalt covered with snow, ice and water. 
Edition test world tested 25 tire models indoors and outdoors. The ability of rubber to provide fast acceleration, good lateral grip and minimal braking distance. There were also round trips against the clock. When summing up the results, the opinion of the drivers who took part in the testing was taken into account.
Using the results obtained during the tests, a ranking of the best winter studded tires 2015-2016, which included foreign and Russian products, as well as an overview of Scandinavian rubber modifications.
10. Michelin X-IceNorth 3
Low-noise tires produced by a well-known French brand with an open tread pattern to reduce snow clearance, with good contact with road surface even when bad grip, confidently holding the car in the slush. The model with the shortest stopping distance when stopped on dry pavement at a speed of 100 km/h. The disadvantages of Michelin X-IceNorth 3 experts attributed the low dynamics of acceleration and braking on icy pavement and the worst test lap time. In general, the experts recognized the tires as suitable for use on roads with little snow and slight icing.
9. Formula Ice
Formula Ice, produced by Pirelli & C, the world's fifth-largest tire seller, came in fifth in the rankings. The aluminum hex studded tires are great for stopping the car on dry roads and helping to stop the car on snowy and icy roads. These tires, which provide a high level of ride comfort, are considered by experts to be a budget option for urban use with rare use outside the metropolitan area. Disadvantages - poor cross-country ability on a snowy and ice-covered track.
8.Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419
Hankook Winter I*Pike RS W419 - Korean tires, successors of the W409 model, which is in demand among domestic motorists, equipped with durable sipes and one hundred and eighty spikes that significantly reduce the braking distance, showed the best time for slippery turns, slopes, snowy and muddy sections of the highway and received a minimum of complaints from pilots. Among the shortcomings of the model, experts identified the uneven behavior of tires on a snowy track and a highway covered with mud.
7. Gislaved Nord*Frost 100
Gislaved Nord Frost 100 is a studded tire from the Swedish brand Gislaved, founded in 1893, with multidirectional edges for more reliable contact with the road, a large grip area on icy surfaces and a significant number of hooks, which received good feedback and expert ratings (8.3 on the scale used by Test World) in wet highway testing. Disadvantages - long braking distance on dry roads and high rolling resistance.
6. Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic
Founded in 1898 and passed the way From a small factory that makes cardboard for packaging, horse shoe covers, bicycle tires and rubber poker chips to one of the world's largest manufacturers of state-of-the-art tires, Goodyear has been reaffirmed for its quality by finishing sixth best. winter tires 2015-2016 years. Goodyear UltraGripIce Arctic (GudEa UltraGrip Artik). - Tires with V-shaped slots, successfully tested by Tuulilasi and TestWorld on snowy and icy roads and on the track covered with a mixture of water and snow. Cons: slower than other tested models, the response to emergency situations arising on a dry highway.
5 Nokian Nordman 4
Nokian Nordman 4 - rubber with flexible elements located under the studs, softening contact with the road, reducing noise and increasing tire life. Russian experts attributed these tires to a confident middle class. At the same time, Test World experts noted the uneven behavior of rubber on wet roads and ice and received a score of 7.1, below which were only the Sunny SN3860 tires - 5.9 points.
4 Nokian Nordman 5
In this model, to increase traction, a special bear claw stud is installed in the upper part of the tread, which creates additional stress on the tire. When the car stops, the protrusion remains vertical. The experts of "Behind the wheel" noted the low cost of Nokian Nordman 5 tires (from 1,930 rubles), average fuel consumption during operation, stability on snow, a high level of lateral grip on an icy surface and the confidence of the car on an asphalt road. Among the shortcomings, average handling and comfort and mediocre cross-country ability in snowy conditions were highlighted.
3. Pirelli Winter Ice Zero
Pirelli Winter Ice Zero is a tire designed for use in particularly harsh weather conditions on uneven snowy roads covered with a layer of ice. The model received positive feedback from experts when passing tests for braking, acceleration and handling in a snowy track covered with ice. Tires work especially effectively when stopping the car in areas with melted snow. Disadvantages of rubber: reduced grip when cornering, high noise level when driving, a fairly long braking distance on a dry highway.
2.Continental ContiIceContact
An enterprise with more than a hundred and forty years of history, specializing in the production of tires, the Continental concern is represented in the ranking by one of the best examples of its products - ContiIceContact tires. These tires are manufactured using a unique compound designed to withstand particularly low temperatures and winter precipitation. Continental Conti Ice Contact are universal tires that can be used with the same success as for cars as well as for cross-country vehicles. Among the advantages of the model are excellent braking on icy surfaces, excellent handling both on snowy and icy surfaces, and on a dry track, and a quick set of speeds. Cons - insufficient resistance when the car slips in a mixture of water and snow.
1 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8
The superiority of Nokian Hakkapelitta 8 in the ranking of tires for use in winter produced by the Finnish company Nokian is natural. Who, if not Finns, living in a climate with one of the most severe winters, is best to know all the subtleties and features of tires for driving in severe frosts and ice. 
Tires Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 became the winner of the 2015-2016 winter studded tire rating, having received unanimous recognition from all the experts who took part in the testing. Among the advantages - a large (190 units for model 205/55 R16) number of spikes; reduced tire weight due to the use of special fillers; excellent handling on the surface with melted snow and on an ice-covered, snow-covered track; short braking distance when stopping on wet and dry pavement.
In the global car tire market, winter tires account for a modest 7-8%. And in Russia, the production of tires for winter period- profitable business, they account for up to 60% of the market. For our country, Scandinavian-type winter tires with a massive tread are suitable, which push snow and ice crust well.
Top 10 best winter tires:
Tires #1: Nokian Hakkapeliitta
Nokian Hakkapeliitta - tires with 190 studs and light weight (with the help of special additives) do an excellent job on the track with any type of road surface.
Snow, snowy or frozen surface - it doesn't matter. Indeed, for Nokian Hakkapelitta, becoming the leader in the winter tire rating, there are no barriers. The car, "shod" in this model, shows a short braking distance on dry and wet pavement.
Tires #2: Continental ContilceContact
ContilceContact is a versatile tire suitable for both passenger cars and SUVs. Special composition The rubber compound is made to suit cold and unpredictable climates. The car, “shod” in Continental, brakes perfectly on ice and shows good handling both on snow-covered roads and on dry pavement. Withstands rapid acceleration and deceleration. To be ContilceContact in the first place, if its slip resistance were perfect. But this is not the case, which is why the silver rating of winter tires in 2018.
Tires #3: Pirelli Winter Ice Zero
Pirelli tire manufacturers test their products under the most extreme conditions, as they operate on ice and snow. Therefore, it is expected that this model performed well on the surface with melted snow and ice. There are no questions about braking and handling under these conditions. So if you're going out of town and the weather is terrible, Pirelli tires are the best choice. Sometimes the car loses traction when cornering. Loud noise tires also do not add pluses to Winter Ice Zero. On dry pavement, the braking distance is not as short as we would like, so the bronze rating of winter tires 2018-2019.
Tire #4: Nokian Nordman
Good braking of the Nordman 5 is carried out with the help of a "bear claw" - a protrusion on the tread, which is held vertically when braking. The attractive price of this model, which occupies the 4th place in the ranking of winter tires 2018-2019, will please every motorist.
Thanks to Nokian Nordman 5, the car consumes moderately fuel, shows excellent stability on ice, snow and dry pavement. The only drawback: not very comfortable handling of the car, with heavy snowfall it does not show the best cross-country ability.
Tires #5: Nokian Nordman 4
Nordman 4 features reduced noise and spikes with great durability. Special pads soften contact with the road. On wet pavement and ice, the performance of this model, which occupies the middle of the 2018-2019 winter tire rating, leaves much to be desired. But otherwise, Nokian Nordman 4 is a solid middle peasant, sold at an affordable price.
Tires #6: Goodyear UltraGripIce Arctic
With special V-shaped sipes, the tire guarantees perfect grip on snowy roads. The performance of this rubber also gives confidence to the motorist. On wet pavement, the “shod” car behaves confidently, however, on dry pavement it turned out to be the slowest of all the models presented in the rating of winter tires this season.
Tire #7: Gislaved Nord*Frost 100
Gislaved Nord*Frost 100 tires with multi-faceted studs for perfect grip on ice. A wide area of contact between the tire and the road surface is made possible by numerous lugs. The car, "shod" in the tires of this model, behaves flawlessly on wet snow and ice road. On dry pavement, the performance of rubber, which took 7th place in the ranking of winter tires, is not so joyful: the rolling resistance is high, and the braking distance leaves much to be desired.
Tires #8: Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419
Winter tires Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 from the Korean manufacturer has 180 spikes and a siping system to reduce the braking distance. The car goes perfectly in the snow on the slopes, tracks, forest trails. Whether the road is dry or wet, it doesn't matter, with Hankook Winter tires your car will be able to drive confidently even on dirty road. True, on the snow, driving is uneven. This is the only negative of the model that occupies the 8th place in our top of the best winter tires 2018-2019.
No. 9: Formula Ice
Thanks to the hexagonal aluminum studs, the tires of this model are perfectly adapted for driving and braking on snow and ice. The car, "shod" in this rubber, will feel great on dry roads. Formula Ice, ranked 9th in the 2018 winter tire list, will provide the vehicle with a high level of smoothness. This model is suitable for those who live in big city and rarely travels outside of it. Attractive price will be an additional plus in choosing this model.
#10: Michelin X-IceNorth 3
Thanks to the open tread pattern, the tires interact well with the road even with poor grip. With X-IceNorth vehicle will confidently pass through the slush. A car shod with tires of this model showed the shortest braking distance on a dry road. This rubber, which closes this rating, is most suitable in conditions where there is not much snow and ice. Because the car will be mediocre to accelerate and brake with the X-IceNorth 3. This winter tire model is sold at a reasonable price.
Video TOP 10 most popular winter tires in Russia
Here we go? The opening of the winter season can be considered completed. We publish the first winter tire test of 2016. Experts from the Russian magazine Za Rulem (No. 9/2016) were the first to share their results this year. They tested a dozen winter studded models in size 195/65 R15, which are supplied with inexpensive foreign cars, as opposed to where studs of size 205/55 R16 took part.
Eight test models fit into the price range from 650 to 1000 hryvnias. Of the budget tires, the most inexpensive were the tires of the Chinese company Triangle, the upper limit of this category was behind the products of Hankook and Dunlop. The medium segment was represented by winter studded tires Matador, Pirelli, Toyo and the Nordman line. And for the premium class, two pairs of the most successful developments in Russia, Goodyear, Michelin, Nokian and Continental, were blown away.
List of tested models:
Triangle Ice Link
Toyo Observe G3 Ice
Pirelli Formula Ice
Nokian Nordman 5
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8
Michelin X-Ice North 3
Matador MP-30 Sibir Ice 2
Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419
Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic
Dunlop SP Winter Ice 02
Cordiant Snow Cross
Continental Ice Contact 2
All "white" tests of these studded tires were carried out at the beginning of March 2016 at the Nokian test site called "White Hell", located in northern Finland on Lake Tammijärvi. The air temperature at the same time ranged from -20°C to -2°C. Skoda Octavia was used as a test vehicle by the testers of the publication "Behind the wheel".
Procedures on snow and ice
For each set of tires, 6-8 measurements were carried out, in the case of a strong spread of indicators - ten. After every two or three sets, the condition of the coating was checked using base tires and taking into account the data obtained, the results were recalculated.
Acceleration and braking performance on snow were tested on a small horizontal plateau with slip and anti-lock systems. The acceleration time was recorded from 0 to 40 km/h and the length of the braking distance when decelerating from 40 km/h to 5 km/h.
Cordiant Snow Cross, Pirelli Formula Ice and Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tires showed the best results from a standing start. Toyo Observe G3-Ice was the last result. The braking lead was taken by Michelin X-Ice North 3 tires, while the underdogs were Triangle Ice Link tires.
Measurements on the ice were taken on a special track covered with a huge awning that hides the ice from the sun and snow, says a technical specialist. In such conditions, the results are more reliable than in open space. The test disciplines are similar to the "snow" disciplines, with slight differences: the initial braking speed and the final acceleration speed are 30 km/h. And the acceleration time was measured from a speed of 5 km / h, and not from the moment of starting.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tires showed the best accelerating dynamics on ice. Continental ContiIceContact 2. The winter studded tires of 2016 Matador MP30 Sibir Ice 2 performed the worst of all. The same situation was preserved in the braking test.
To determine the time of passing the ice lap, 10-12 laps were wound on each set. According to the results of measurements, the Conti IceContact 2 and Dunlop SP Winter Ice 02 tires were the fastest.
Expert work
The testers behind the wheel put subjective assessments of handling on an elongated platform with a length of at least five hundred and a width of about fifteen meters. It made it possible to check the clarity of rectilinear movement at a speed of 90-100 km / h, to simulate changing lanes from one lane to another and avoiding obstacles.
The testers were most confident on Cordiant Snow Cross, Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic and Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tires. The least liked was the Matador MP-30 Sibir Ice 2 tire with a wide and uninformative “zero”, inhibited reactions to steering turns and the need for significant driver intervention when correcting the course.
The Chinese Triangle Ice Link tires surprised the expert group with their clarity, but their scores were lowered due to low information content in the zero zone.
On a snow-covered track of a closed configuration with turns of different curvature, perfectly imitating Russian roads, the test Skoda was more stable on Cordiant Snow Cross, Hankook Winter i * Pike RS W419, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 and Toyo Observe G3-Ice tires.
Testers were pleased with their clear reactions and predictable behavior even in gliding. The worst were the Triangle Ice Link tires, in which the Skoda steering wheel was uninformative, and the test car itself moved too sweepingly and with long slides from drifting at the entrance to the turn to skidding on the arc.
Manageability ratings are very slippery surface exhibited on the ice of Lake Tammijärvi. In the middle of the closed track lay snow a little deeper than the ground clearance. The testers were focused on how clear and easy the vehicle starts, maneuvers and moves in deep snow, how confidently it gets back in its own tracks if it suddenly gets stuck.
In taxiing on icy surfaces, as well as in the test for handling on snow, everyone was beaten Cordiant tires Snow Cross, Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 and Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8. This time they were accompanied by the Nokian Nordman 5, which captivated the testers with its understandable behavior and clear reactions to steering wheel turns.
Due to the low information content of the steering, skidding and long clutch recovery after the start of slipping good year tires Ultra Grip Ice Arctic scored the minimum number of points in this discipline.
However, the UG Ice Arctic was not equal in patency through snowdrifts. The testers even compared the test Skoda, equipped with Goodyear tires, with a bulldozer - it was so famously raking snow with its front bumper.
Representatives of China are rowing worse than others in deep snow. Triangle Ice Link tires are very uncertain and reluctant to contact with snowdrifts, and it is very difficult to get out of a swept track onto a cleared road.
Spike counting
After the "white" tests, the anti-skid spikes were counted. Most secure fixation steel teeth on the Continental ContiIceContact 2 and Pirelli Formula Ice tires, which did not lose a single stud during testing.
The Nokian Nordman 5, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 and Michelin X-Ice North 3 models lost two “thorns” from the entire set, Triangle Ice Link, Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic and Matador MP30 Sibir Ice 2 tires were missing three or four thorns. Observe G3 Ice missed seven "carnations".
The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 (-15), Dunlop SP Winter Ice 02 (-13) and Cordiant Snow Cross (-10) tires finished the snow-ice tests with the highest stud losses.
asphalt exercises
Test disciplines on "gray" asphalt were held at the junction of April and May 2016 at an air temperature of 4°C to 7°C - at the temperature limit for changing winter tires. The first exercise is to measure the fuel economy of fifteen-inch studs.
Directly before the measurements on the warm-up lap, directional stability and ride comfort (noise and smoothness of movement) were evaluated. Road jogging with various types coating was carried out after measurements, which made it possible to fully give feedback on the comfort of the test participants.
Pirelli Formula Ice, Nokian Nordman 5 and Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tires distinguished themselves with the highest fuel efficiency in urban and suburban mode. And the Cordiant Snow Cross model was named the most voracious, although the difference in fuel consumption with the leaders of the test discipline was only 200 ml of gasoline per 100 km.
Skoda Octavia at a speed of 110-130 km / h kept the course most clearly and made soft lane changes, being equipped with Michelin X-Ice North 3 tires. The test pilots were most stressed by the Triangle Ice Link tires with a very wide smeared “zero” and lack of information content.
There were no significant differences between a dozen studs in slow speed, but in smoothness in better side tires Conti IceContact 2, Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 and Michelin XIN3 stood out.
Wet and dry braking performance was measured when decelerating from 80 and 60 km/h to 5 km/h (to cut off possible ABS interference). In wet conditions, Continental ContiIceContact 2 works best. The least safe in this matter Dunlop tires SP Winter Ice 02 and Cordiant Snow Cross.
On dry land, Triangle Ice Link tires have the shortest braking distance, Cordiant again has the longest.
Results
The victory with a score of 929 points went to tires made in Russia. The silver of the test was taken into account for the model (916 points). Experts behind the wheel unanimously recognized their high cost as their main shortcomings.
On the third step of the pedestal of this winter test climbed winter studded tires c, notes the technical specialist, which the testers could not call excellent, since the “beeps” did not reach the coveted mark of 900 by six points.
Test results Behind the Wheel: studded winter tires 2016, places 12-7 (click to enlarge) Tires Hankook Winter i * Pike RS W419 and, which took fourth and fifth places, respectively, are recommended for those car owners who are willing to spend at least $ 150 on a set of winter studded tires. According to the ZR expert group, these models are very good, as they did not fail in any of the disciplines.
The sixth to tenth places were taken by tires: Toyo Observe G3-Ice (6-7), Cordiant Snow Cross (6-7), (8), (9) and Pirelli Formula Ice (10). Their "ceiling" is 850-870 points, and they are also considered a good option for winter installation. However, each of the models has its drawbacks.
In this case, the Russian magazine ZR considers the most profitable acquisition ... drumroll... Russian Cordiant Snow Cross tires, motivating their position with the high performance of these tires at a modest price, which, however, are not very suitable for operation in the city.
At the same time the price Michelin tires X-Ice North 3 was found to be overpriced and clearly below the level of performance.
Test results Behind the Wheel: studded winter tires 2016, 6-1 places (click to enlarge) The outsiders of the first winter test behind the wheel of 2016 are the Triangle Ice Link and the novelty of this season - winter studded tires. What a disappointment for Slovak fans.
These obviously budget models did not at all inspire the testers, but forced them to admit that, for lack of the best options and with careful driving with tires Matador and Triangle, at the very least, but you can overturn.
Usually, in order to answer all the questions of one test, it is not enough. On our website you can familiarize yourself with, as well as, which were held by authoritative specialized publications and organizations.
Owners of crossovers, especially all-wheel drive ones, are often not enthusiastic about the seasonal change of regular summer tires to winter ones. After all, almost all native tires are marked with the M + S index, which de jure allows you to drive them in winter. The main thing is that the residual tread depth should be at least 4 mm (otherwise - 500 rubles fine). But you need to understand that the M + S marking absolutely does not oblige the manufacturer to anything! For marking, no tests or certificates are required confirming the suitability of tires for winter, and therefore, more and more often it can be seen on frankly summer, moreover, “asphalt” tires, which incidentally indicates the devaluation of not only the letter S (snow, “snow”), but also M (mud, "mud"). So we don’t look at the letters, but at the tread, and if we don’t see a lot of small slots-lamellas, then we conclude: it’s dangerous to ride on such in winter. And even better, when there is a “Snowflake” stamp on the sidewall in the form of three mountain peaks with a snowflake, these models really passed the test on a snowy track. The participants in our test are all with this marking: these are 14 sets with spikes and nine without.
The test program is standard, all the tracks of the White Hell test site near the Finnish town of Ivalo are well known to us - and most importantly, to be lucky with the weather. Almost lucky: there was no snowfall, although the temperature danced from 5 to 23 degrees of frost, so its influence had to be taken into account by conducting additional races on the "reference" tires. But the measurements of the longitudinal dynamics took place in a closed hangar with a more stable temperature.
This is where the embarrassment happened with Nokian tires, and with a model that has been produced for more than a year. Both in acceleration and in braking, the studless Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV lost not only to its principal competitors, but even to the tires of its own "second line" - Nordman RS2 SUV tires! Nokian testers working in the neighborhood were alarmed, they repeated the measurements themselves ... An internal investigation showed that the failed tires were produced at a plant near St. Petersburg at the end of 2016, more precisely on the 48th week. Then there was a failure in the technological cycle. They did not share details with us (apparently, there were deviations either in the duration or in the temperature of vulcanization), but they assured that the defective batch did not go on sale. Although according to outward signs everything is in order, and even the hardness of the tread rubber is the same as on the tires released in the 41st week of 2016 (their results were taken into account), but the difference in traction on ice reaches eight percent.
After measurements in the hangar, we get out into the hardening frost - and once again we notice that as the temperature drops friction tires they begin to catch up and even overtake the spikes. At minus twenty, the ice becomes so hard that the studs cannot scratch it, and the tread rubber of most studded tires is harder - in the cold, friction tires are more elastic, they have a longer total length of slots-lamellae.
We, again, take into account changing conditions and adjust the results, but if all tests were carried out in light frost, friction tires would roll back to the bottom lines of the protocols.
Handling tests were carried out on the ice of the polar lake Tammijärvi
And in the snow, frost plays into the hands of friction models: while maintaining the elasticity of the tread, they better cling to the snow shagreen.
This time we managed to back up the passability estimates with instrumental measurements - acceleration time in deep snow with the traction control. It is curious that Russian tires topped and closed the rating: the best are Cordiant, and the most helpless in the virgin lands are Viatti tires manufactured by the Nizhnekamsk Tire Plant.
The asphalt part of the tests is especially relevant for residents of large cities, where the streets are cleared of snow and ice for most of the winter.
The final part of the tests is already in April, on "summer" surfaces. And in passing, we note that this time there were no tires littered with spikes.
At the top of the final ranking - Nokian tires Hakkapeliitta 9 SUV. Expected result: if the model of the previous generation regularly won in our tests, then the new one, and even with two types of studs, easily outperformed the competitors.
Expensive? Then we carefully look at the points, at the main advantages and disadvantages of other tires - and choose best option affordable. And yet we avoid buying outsider tires - such savings threaten incomparably large costs.
Studded tire rating
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (55 sizes available from 215/65 R16 to 315/40 R21) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,9 |
| 9,8 | |
| 49 | |
| Number of spikes | 172 |
| 1,05/1,54 | |
| Manufacturer country | Finland |
Hakkapeliitta with index 9 is the novelty of the season: two types of spikes are used here for the first time. Those in the middle part of the tread have transversely oriented carbide inserts: they are responsible for the longitudinal grip, and at the edges of the tread rise some kind of trefoils that work effectively in corners. And this is not a marketing trick: a clear superiority over competitors both on the handling track and in braking on ice. Yes, and in other forms winter tests tires are top notch. On asphalt, grip is moderate, and the main problem is noise at speeds from 70 to 90 km / h.
The best tires for harsh winter conditions!
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (2 sizes available 205/55 R16 and 215/65 R16) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,2 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,5 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 56 |
| Number of spikes | 170 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,52/1,47 |
| Manufacturer country | South Korea |
This year, Hankook officially opened its polar test site in Ivalo, Finland: the routes and test approaches are in many ways similar to those used by Nokian Tires. This also applies to the features of the tires themselves: the number of star spikes was increased, which ensured decent test results on ice. But in deep snow, tires do not shine, as well as on asphalt, and besides, they make a lot of noise. But it’s easy for them to forgive: Hankook Winter i * Pike RS + tires are one and a half times cheaper than the Finnish novelty.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (91 sizes available from 175/70 R14 to 275/40 R22) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,4 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,5 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 54 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,03/1,25 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Tires made in Voronezh are flavored with powerful studs-brackets - and work smartly on ice during acceleration and braking. But in corners - sharp breakdowns in sliding, so without a stabilization system you have to be on the alert. But - a good balance of grip properties on slippery road and on asphalt, and therefore they can be safely recommended for winter operation in large cities. If you do not make high demands on acoustic comfort.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (75 sizes available from 155/70 R13 to 275/40 R20) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,6 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,2 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 54 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,37/1,41 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Tires are produced at the Russian plant Continental near Kaluga. The Gislaved brand belongs to Continental- and the Nord*Frost 200 model copies the asymmetric tread pattern of the first generation ContiIceContact tires, but the studs are simpler in shape and without thermochemical fixation. However, they also work well - especially in the transverse direction.
In general, these are well-balanced tires for use both in large cities and beyond.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (37 sizes available from 155/70 R13 to 225/55 R18) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,9 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,6 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 54 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,63/1,62 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
The tires were produced at the Yaroslavl Tire Plant and the tread pattern suspiciously resembles the Finnish Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 tires, which even became a reason for a lawsuit. But Cordiant managed to justify itself - and increase production volumes, including by expanding the range of dimensions. Decent tires for the money, but they don’t like asphalt roads: they don’t hold very well, and rolling is accompanied by a loud and unpleasant rumble of the tread. Tires are not for the city.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (42 sizes available from 205/70 R15 to 275/50 R22) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 12,2 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,2 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 57 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,08/1,16 |
| Manufacturer country | Finland |
Nordman tires are the "second line" of Nokian Tires, and molds of obsolete models are used for production. Nokian tires. The novelty of the Nordman 7 SUV season is the reincarnation of the Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV, produced from 2010 to 2017. Good grip on ice and snow, and on asphalt even better than the current "mother" model. Including acoustic comfort: there are fewer spikes.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (38 sizes available from 175/65 R15 to 245/45 R19) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 10,2 |
| Tread depth, mm | 10,5 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 56 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,26/1,39 |
| Manufacturer country | Germany |
The model was introduced in 2012 and has not yet received a replacement. On ice, the tires work well in the longitudinal direction, but in corners they sharply break into slips. On the snow, including virgin lands, everything is much better. But on the pavement, the aggressive pattern generates an obsessive low-frequency rumble from 30 km / h.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (58 sizes available from 175/65 R14 to 265/40 R20) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,3 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,3 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 56 |
| Number of spikes | 104 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,05/1,09 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Michelin with the X-Ice North 3 tire continues to bend the line to comply with European studding regulations: no more than 50 studs per linear meter of tread. And the spikes themselves are simple, round in section. This led to an unimportant hold on the ice. On packed snow, the picture is better, but getting out of a snowdrift is a problem: the tread is to blame.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (23 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 245/45 R17) | |
| Speed index | Q (160 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,2 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 51 |
| Number of spikes | 100 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 0,87/1,06 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
BFGoodrich tires are Michelin's "second line", they are produced at the same plant in Davydovo near Moscow as Michelin X-Ice North 3 tires. But the tread is its own, original. It is a pity that there are also few spikes, they are round, excessively recessed, and as a result, mediocre behavior on ice.
On snow, including on virgin soil, the situation is better. And even better - on asphalt, although you need to remember that the permissible speed is 160 km / h, although studded competitors have 190.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (35 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 265/60 R18) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 10,9 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,6 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 56 |
| Number of spikes | 130 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 0,85/0,94 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Formula is the "second line" of Pirelli. In last year's tests at Lada Vesta, tires took fifth place, but now the figures are more modest. Especially on ice. Even after break-in, the protrusion of the studs above the tread surface is less than a millimeter (last year we recorded 1.1 mm on new tires). On packed snow, the results are better, although we do not recommend climbing into snowdrifts. They hold up well on asphalt.
not bad a budget option tires for urban use.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (122 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 285/45 R22) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 12,2 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,5 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 55 |
| Number of spikes | 125 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 1,18/1,37 |
| Manufacturer country | Japan |
For many, the Made in Japan brand is a sign of quality. But with winter Toyo tires Something went wrong. It seems that the spikes are not simple - with cruciform inserts, and the studding is of high quality, but on ice the grip properties are moderate, as well as on snow. However, the response of the car to control is well balanced.
On asphalt - far from the best comfort and grip.
Joy - low price, which is consistent with the quality of tires.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (19 sizes available from 205/70 R15 to 265/60 R18) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,5 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,3 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 59 |
| Number of spikes | 120 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 0,93/1,03 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Under the "Italian" name - tires produced in Nizhnekamsk using off-take technology. The design and manufacturing process is the product of an engineering firm run by a former Continental executive. However, grip on ice and snow is mediocre, and most of all upset that winter tires, “developed by European specialists specifically for Russian roads,” were helpless in deep snow. Also, they are noisy and harsh. Not an option - even considering the low price.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (96 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 275/50 R22) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 12,1 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 53 |
| Number of spikes | 128 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 0,57/0,73 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
One could immediately assume that the ice tests of the Yokohama Ice Guard 55 tire would fail. Instead of the prescribed 1.2 mm, the spikes protrude an average of 0.57 mm - and do not work. And the buyer is counting on Japanese quality - even though the tires are made in Lipetsk.
There are also complaints about the tread: on rolled snow - the maximum braking distance, and on virgin soil - the worst traction abilities. For Russian conditions, other tires are needed, and they already exist: sales of the new Yokohama IG65 model with an increased number of “curly” spikes begin this season. More details about new tires - in one of the next issues of Autoreview.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (38 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 235/60 R18) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,7 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9,4 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 61 |
| Number of spikes | 128 |
| Protrusion of spikes before/after testing, mm | 0,79/1,0 |
| Manufacturer country | South Korea |
Interestingly, duplicated in the name win - is it from the word "win" or from the word "winter"? Better fit, for example, wintry ("cold", "unfriendly") or winch ("winch"). What kind of winter or victory can we talk about if studded tires are inferior on ice to most friction tires, and on the handling track Nexen is the slowest in the overall standings? Tread rubber is clearly not designed to work at low temperatures, as evidenced by its increased hardness.
Of the positive emotions, only relatively quiet (for tires with spikes) rolling remains.
Rating of non-studded tires
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (61 sizes available from 205/70 R15 to 295/40 R21) | |
| Speed index | R (170 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,4 |
| Tread depth, mm | 8,9 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 53 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
Off-road tires, with the SUV index, have sidewalls reinforced with aramid fiber, which is reminiscent of the Aramid Sidewalls brand. So with impact resistance, unlike the "passenger" tires of the same name, there should be no problems.
On severe frost Nokian friction tires provide excellent traction on ice, behave well on snow, and small complaints appear only on asphalt.
Excellent winter tires for use in the city and beyond.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (97 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 275/45 R20) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,9 |
| Tread depth, mm | 8 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 52 |
| Manufacturer country | Germany |
Leapfrog. The year before last, we liked the ContiVikingContact 6 tires on asphalt, but they didn’t work well on ice, last year the situation reversed, this year it’s better on asphalt again ... Of course, the dimensions are different, but the reason must be sought in the composition of the rubber compound : Last year the tread rubber on the ContiVikingContact 6 tires was noticeably softer.
We are now taking into account latest version these tires are manufactured at the end of 2016. Not ideal on ice and snow (especially deep), but they work perfectly on asphalt.
Good winter tires for urban use. And the most comfortable!
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (57 sizes available from 175/70 R13 to 255/45 R19) | |
| Speed index | S (180 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 10,7 |
| Tread depth, mm | 8,6 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 46 |
| Manufacturer country | Japan |
Since studs are banned in Japan, local manufacturers are focusing on friction winter tires. So we will assume that it is natural that
Lightweight tires with soft, quiet rolling. But at the same time, there is an imbalance of “winter” grip properties in the longitudinal and transverse directions, and sharp breakdowns in sliding seem to be provoked by sidewalls that are soft for a heavy crossover. Indeed, in the range of Goodyear winter tires there is a model specifically for crossovers and SUVs - UltraGrip Ice SUV, but these tires are not available in size 215/65 R16. However, if the car is equipped with a stabilization system, then Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2 tires are a good choice.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (16 sizes available from 215/65 R16 to 255/60 R18) | |
| Speed index | R (170 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 11,2 |
| Tread depth, mm | 8,9 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 56 |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
The tread pattern is exactly like the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R tires, but the materials are simpler. Another option to extend the life cycle of molds. And - given the price - a very good option. Moreover, in certain disciplines Nordman tires The RS2 SUV is even better: braking distances on ice are shorter!
Quality tires for a reasonable price. On ice, they are almost as good as the leaders among tires without studs, and on snow they have even better grip in the longitudinal direction. Although the handling is harsh on the track and rowing is mediocre in deep snow.
Grip properties on asphalt are above average, there are no problems with comfort either, which means that these tires are relevant for large cities.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (38 sizes available from 155/65 R14 to 255/50 R19) | |
| Speed index | T (190 km/h) |
| Load index | 102 (850 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 10,6 |
| Tread depth, mm | 9 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 51 |
| Manufacturer country | Slovakia |
The Gislaved brand continues to lose authenticity. So the “new” Gislaved Soft*Frost 200 is nothing more than ContiVikingContact tires of the year before last, the third generation. Fortunately, these are balanced tires - safe, comfortable, not very expensive - and therefore we safely recommend them for urban use, although an accidental drive into a snowdrift may delay the planned trip.
The Marshal brand belongs to the Korean company Kumho Tire, however, according to the tread pattern and even the rare R speed index, these tires copy the Finnish Nokian Hakkapeliitta R tires - and some sellers play on this similarity. By the way, on snow and asphalt friction tires Marshal and Nokian are close, but on ice the loss of the copy is already obvious. It is also one of the noisiest and toughest friction tires available.
| Dimension | 215/65 R16 |
|---|---|
| (37 sizes available from 175/65 R14 to 245/60 R18) | |
| Speed index | Q (160 km/h) |
| Load index | 98 (750 kg) |
| Weight, kg | 12,4 |
| Tread depth, mm | 8,9 |
| Shore hardness of tread rubber, units | 49 |
| Manufacturer country | Japan |
Winter Nitto tires(brand belongs to Toyo Tires) appeared in Russia recently. The Therma Spike model managed to please us with traction on ice, but it lost the most spikes on asphalt. And the Nitto Winter SN2 friction tires immediately showed their helplessness on ice and in snowdrifts. And the more surprising is the failure of these tires even on asphalt.
Something is wrong with these Nittos...
