Winter tires 2025: models to avoid according to the TCS test
Not all winter tires are created equal. Behind similar sculptures and markings adapted to the cold season may lie considerable differences in braking, stability and handling.
The 2025 winter tire test of the Touring Club Suisse confirms this. Among the 31 models evaluated in the size range 225/40 R18 92V, Six of them were judged «very recommended,» while more than a third of the tested references received the «not recommended» label. On wet roads, the least performing tires may be required. more than 15 additional meters to stop compared to the best models.
How to recognize the winter tires to avoid? Which models stood out positively? Here are the main takeaways from this independent test.
- What the 2025 winter tire test reveals
- Which winter tires should I avoid?
- Why the cheapest tires are more affected
- Which are the best winter tires in the test?
- How Pneus Online helps you make the right choice
- Our advice before buying your winter tires
- Frequently Asked Questions
What the 2025 winter tire test reveals
For its 2025 test, the TCS compared 31 winter tires in 225/40 R18 92V, This dimension is used, in particular, on certain Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Renault Mégane, Škoda Octavia and Toyota Corolla models.
The models were evaluated in several situations:
- driving on dry roads;
- braking and handling on wet roads;
- performances on snow and ice;
- wear resistance ;
- energy efficiency;
- noise and environmental impact assessment.
The results highlight particularly significant discrepancies. Some tires perform well in all disciplines, while others show serious shortcomings as conditions deteriorate.
However, these results must be placed in their context: they primarily concern the dimension 225/40 R18 92V. The performance of the same range can vary slightly depending on the size, the load index or the vehicle used.
Which winter tires should be avoided in 2025?
Three references can be found at the bottom of the TCS ranking:
Syron Everest 2
The Syron Everest 2 Obtains good results on winter roads, but its performance on dry and especially wet roads is considered insufficient. This high level of variability results in an overall rating of «not recommended».
CST Medallion Winter WCP1
The CST Medallion Winter WCP1 shows significant weaknesses on winter roads. Although its performance is less adverse on dry or wet roads, its lack of balance does not allow it to reach a satisfactory level of safety.
Evergreen EW66
The’Evergreen EW66 presenting serious shortcomings on dry, wet and wintery roads. It is among the references that obtained the lowest overall results in the test.
These three models end with a final note of 0 % and a TCS assessment «not recommended».
Other tires also received the «not recommended» label in the tested size:
- Radar Dimax Winter;
- Nankang Winter Activa 4;
- Landsail Winter Lander ;
- Petlas Snowmaster 2 Sport;
- Imperial Snowdragon UHP;
- Tomket Snowroad Pro 3;
- Star Performer Stratos UHP;
- Goodride SW608.
This assessment does not necessarily mean that every tire from these brands or every size has the same performance. It relates to the specific references and sizes that were tested.
Why are the cheapest tires more affected?
All the tires classified as «not recommended» by the TCS belong to the segment of the cheapest models in the comparison. The main weaknesses concern braking on wet roads, stability on dry roads, and, for some models, traction on snow.
A very low price can, in particular, be accompanied by:
- of a less effective rubber when temperatures decrease;
- of less progressive behavior in emergency situations;
- of insufficient adhesion on wet pavement;
- of an unbalanced compromise between snow, rain and dry road.
However, An economical tire is not automatically a bad tire. In the same test, the Momo W-20 North Pole and the Matador MP93 Nordicca both received three stars and the mention «recommended». The price therefore must remain a criterion among others, never the sole element of decision.
What are the best winter tires in the 2025 test?
The first six entries in the ranking all received four stars and the mention «highly recommended»:
- Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
- Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
- Bridgestone Blizzak 6
- Dunlop Winter Sport 5
- Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330
- Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 It comes out on top thanks to its excellent overall balance, its very good performance on wet roads, and its favorable environmental record.
The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 It stands out particularly for its behavior on dry roads, its overall safety, and its resistance to wear and tear.
The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 For its part, it offers homogeneous performance on dry, wet and winter roads.
The results remain nevertheless dependent on your size. Before ordering, always check that the model selected is available with the load and speed indices recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle.
How Pneus Online helps you make the right choice
Buying winter tires shouldn’t just boil down to comparing prices. Pneus Online provides you with several information to help you select a tire suitable for your vehicle and driving conditions.
You can, for example:
- compare the winter tires and consult their reviews ;
- check the European label of each reference, including the adhesion class on wet ground;
- consult the dimensions, indices and any manufacturer homologations;
- Read our guide to properly equipping yourself with winter tires ;
- better understanding of road performance thanks to our guide to adhesion ;
- Find other tips in the Mag Pneus Online.
The product sheets on Pneus Online display, among other things, the season, the available sizes, the grip on wet roads, the energy consumption and the external noise. This information makes it easier to compare several references compatible with your vehicle.
Our advice before buying your winter tires
Check the full dimension
The width, height, diameter, load index and speed index must be compatible with the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can find this information on the side of the tire, in the maintenance manual or on the label located in the door frame.
Check out our guide learn to read the tire markings.
Do not rely solely on the European label
Adhesion on wet ground is an essential criterion. When possible, prioritize Class A or B. A Class C can nevertheless remain consistent depending on the dimension and the results obtained in independent tests.
The European label does not alone reflect the handling on snow, stability in turns or behavior during an emergency maneuver. Therefore, independent tests must complement this initial information.
Look for the 3PMSF marking
The symbol representing a mountain with three peaks and a snowflake indicates that the tire has passed a regulated test for snow traction. It is an indispensable reference for choosing a genuine tire suitable for winter conditions.
Equip the four wheels
Fitting only two winter tires can imbalance the vehicle and change its behavior when cornering or braking. To maintain uniform traction, it is recommended to equip all four wheels.
Monitor the depth of the carvings
Even though the legal limit is lower, the winter qualities decrease significantly as the depth of the sculptures approaches. 4 mm. Regular monitoring of wear and pressure helps to maintain the vehicle’s grip and stability.
Conclusion
The TCS 2025 test shows that an all-season tire should never be chosen solely based on its price. Between the best and the least good models, the difference can be more than 15 meters in braking on wet roads, which is several car lengths.
Referrals such as the Syron Everest 2, the CST Medallion Winter WCP1 or the Evergreen EW66 were deemed «not recommended» in the tested dimension. Conversely, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 and the Bridgestone Blizzak 6 stand out for their balance and level of safety.
Before ordering, compare the test results, check your size and pay special attention to wet road performance. A few euros saved on the purchase never compensate for an excessively long braking distance.
Ready to equip your vehicle for the winter?
Compare winter tires on Pneus Online
Discover our tips for choosing the right winter tires
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the cheapest winter tires necessarily dangerous?
No. Some economical tires achieve satisfactory results in independent tests. However, it is essential to compare their performance on dry, wet, and snowy roads before choosing one.
Can we rely solely on the grip rating on wet ground?
No. This rating is a useful indicator, but it does not provide information about all the tire’s performance characteristics, such as its behavior on snow, stability, or wear resistance.
Are the test results valid for all dimensions?
The results mainly concern the 225/40 R18 92V size. They provide an indication of the general qualities of a range, but performance may vary depending on the size and characteristics of the vehicle.
From what depth should a winter tire be replaced?
To maintain good performance in winter conditions, it is advisable to consider replacing it when the depth of the sculptures approaches 4 mm.
Which winter tires come out on top in the 2025 TCS test?
The first three models are the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 and the Bridgestone Blizzak 6.
