ADAC Winter Tire Test 2025: Budget vs Premium - Safety Gap Revealed
The ADAC Winter Tire Test 2025 has revealed significant differences in performance between budget and premium discount tires, with crucial implications for safety on snowy and wet roads. The test, focusing on the common tire size 225/45 R17, exposed substantial braking distance disparities, particularly on snow-covered roads.
In snowy conditions, the best tires tested stopped vehicles up to 9 meters shorter than the worst performers at 50 km/h, translating to a deceleration difference exceeding 2 m/s². This highlights the critical role of tire choice in winter driving.
The test, conducted on precise, defined tracks with controlled tread depth and standardized load, documented deceleration curves electronically. It found that budget brands generally struggled in practical conditions like wet braking and handling compared to premium brands such as Continental, Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Dunlop. Among 31 tested tires (size 225/40 R18), 11 of the 14 budget tires fell into the deficient category, while premium tires secured top positions with shorter braking distances and better safety.
Experts attribute budget tires' weaknesses to prioritizing low production costs and basic functionality. This results in reduced cornering forces, early ABS intervention, and lowered aquaplaning thresholds, despite modern production methods. Failed products, though formally EU-compliant, revealed weaknesses under practical conditions, suggesting outdated carcass constructions, imprecise tread blocks, and insufficient silica content in the speed test tread compound.
The ADAC Winter Tire Test 2025 underscores the importance of choosing the right tires for winter driving. While budget tires may seem cost-effective, they may compromise safety in critical situations. Premium tires, despite their higher cost, offer superior performance and safety, making them a wiser investment for winter conditions.
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