• WinterContact TS 850 P proves best winter tire among ten competitors
• 225/40 R 18 tires from European, American and Asian manufacturers tested
• Low-price Chinese tire rated “dangerous hazard” in the wet

In the comparative test recently published by AutoBild sportscars (issue 11/17) the WinterContact TS 850 P from Continental finished in first place. After comparing the tire with its competitors over 13 criteria, the experts praised its “performance at the highest level across the board, dynamic handling properties, precision steering response and short braking distances in all weathers.” All of which won the tire developed at Continental in Hanover a top “exemplary” rating and the top step on the podium. The 225/40 R 18 size tested is suitable for a large number of different performance cars. The test vehicle was a Volkswagen Golf GTI Performance.

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However, one of the tires in the test slipped up seriously when braking in the wet: While the WinterContact TS 850 P braked from a speed of 100 km/h to a standstill in 50 meters on a wet track, a low-price product manufactured in China exceeded this by more than 13 meters, taking an additional three car lengths to stop. The magazine’s testers gave it an overall rating of “not recommended” and adjudged it a “dangerous hazard”.

The WinterContact TS 850 P is designed for mid-range and luxury-class cars and for SUVs. It delivers good grip and safe handling on snow, as well as short braking distances on wet and dry roads. These tires are available in a variety of sizes for 16-21-inch rims.