ADAC winter tire test rates nine of sixteen models unsuitable
- A recent winter tire test conducted by the German Automobile Club (ADAC) revealed that out of 16 evaluated products in the popular 185/65 R15 size, only two models...
- Continental WinterContact TS 870 secured the top position in the testing, demonstrating balanced performance across dry and wet asphalt alongside reliable traction on snow.
- The test results indicate that manufacturers have been slow to deploy cutting-edge tread technologies within smaller tire dimensions.
A recent winter tire test conducted by the German Automobile Club (ADAC) revealed that out of 16 evaluated products in the popular 185/65 R15 size, only two models received good ratings while nine were classified as unsuitable for use. The evaluation, which focused on a dimension widely fitted to compact city cars such as the Skoda Fabia, VW Polo, Renault Clio, and Peugeot 208, caught automotive experts by surprise due to the high failure rate among established brands.
Top Performers and Safety Shortfalls in the ADAC Evaluation
Continental WinterContact TS 870 secured the top position in the testing, demonstrating balanced performance across dry and wet asphalt alongside reliable traction on snow. Michelin Alpin 7 followed closely behind, placing among the select group of tires that maintained dependable capabilities across diverse weather conditions. Conversely, major market participants including Bridgestone, Nokian, Vredestein, and Barum failed to deliver the necessary safety margins. Nine separate models displayed critical deficiencies, ranging from lost grip on dry pavement and dangerously extended stopping distances on wet roads to unsatisfactory cornering behavior on snow-covered surfaces. ADAC noted that products such as the Bridgestone Blizzak LM 005 performed adequately on wet asphalt yet lagged behind in dry and snowy conditions.
Technology Lags and Durability Findings
The test results indicate that manufacturers have been slow to deploy cutting-edge tread technologies within smaller tire dimensions. Bridgestone, for instance, continues to market an older design in the 185/65 R15 size rather than introducing a modern alternative, resulting in lower safety metrics compared to the company’s advanced solutions in other sizes. Five additional models secured average ratings, positioning them as viable options for motorists who understand their specific driving requirements and are willing to accept certain performance compromises. Hankook Winter icept RS3 and Optimo Winter Touring OW41 delivered favorable results in rain-heavy regions, whereas Linglong Sport Master Winter showed stronger capabilities on dry surfaces. Regarding longevity, testing revealed that none of the evaluated tires achieved exceptional tread life, with maximum operational mileage capped at maximum of 40 000 км and some products wearing out after едва 22 000.
