Continental Tires
Continental offers a comprehensive lineup of tires spanning performance sports cars, touring, off road trucks/SUVs, winter specialists, and commercial vans. Let’s look at current Continental tire models by category – Performance, Touring/All Season, Off Road/All Terrain, Winter/Snow, and Commercial/Van – we’ll highlight each tire’s features, target use, and proprietary technologies. We also compare Continental’s offerings against major competitors like Bridgestone, Michelin, Goodyear, and BFGoodrich, noting trade offs in grip, noise, tread life, snow performance, and price. Whether you’re a first time buyer looking for a safe all season tire, seeking maximum grip, or a fleet manager aiming for long lasting commercial tires, we’ve got you.
Performance Continental Tires
Continental’s performance tire family is built for drivers who demand high grip, responsive handling, and stability at speed. They have summer ultra high performance (UHP) tires for maximum dry/wet traction, as well as all season UHP tires that add cold weather versatility. Continental’s key models in this category and their technologies include:
ExtremeContact Sport 02
ExtremeContact Sport 02 – A dynamic UHP summer tire for sports cars and performance sedans. It features Continental’s SportPlus™ Technology to deliver responsive handling, better grip on wet roads, and extended tread life. In fact, the ExtremeContact Sport 02 is designed for both street and occasional track use, with Continental even providing “tuned performance indicators” (tread symbols “D” and “W” that disappear as the tire wears) to alert drivers when dry or wet traction is no longer optimal. This tire comes with a 50,000km warranty – notable in the max performance segment. Real world tests show it offers superior wet and dry handling and excellent braking, while still achieving track capable performance. It’s often compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, with one test noting the Pilot Sport 4S had slightly more refined ride and steering feel, but the previous gen ExtremeContact Sport actually edged out the Michelin in objective wet braking and skidpad grip. In other words, Continental has “stepped up their Max Performance summer game” to challenge Michelin. Enthusiasts often find the Sport 02 a compelling value – delivering nearly the same “crazy good” wet and dry grip as Michelin’s best, but at a lower price (avoiding the “Michelin man tax,” as one reviewer quipped).
ExtremeContact Force – A niche entry, this is a 200 treadwear competition tire co-developed with Hoosier, aimed at weekend racers and track enthusiasts. Available through select channels , the ExtremeContact Force provides “track proven performance” with a stylish design. It sacrifices some ride comfort and wet grip for maximum dry traction and heat tolerance. This tire directly targets the likes of the BFGoodrich g-Force Rival and Yokohama Advan A052. If you’re an autocrosser or track day regular, the ExtremeContact Force offers an intriguing blend: it’s street legal, but its heart is pure racing (developed by Hoosier).
SportContact 7
- SportContact 7 – Continental’s flagship maximum performance summer tire. It uses an adaptive asymmetrical tread design and Continental’s latest Black Chili™ compound to excel in both dry and wet. The tread pattern actually adapts under cornering load to enlarge the contact patch, enhancing grip and stability. This technology helped the SportContact 7 dominate recent comparison tests. Auto Bild Sportscars (June 2025) named it the “test winner” with an exemplary score of 1.2, praising its top marks in wet handling, cornering and braking. The SportContact 7 set the standard in safety, braking 4 meters shorter in wet braking (100–0 km/h) than the next best competitor and “offering a big plus in driving safety” on both dry and wet roads. This tire targets the same class as Michelin’s Pilot Sport Cup 2 (track focused) or the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, but with better all round usability. Testers noted it provides precise steering with stable, well balanced handling even in heavy rain, making it a road friendly performance tire that doesn’t sacrifice safety. If you drive a high powered car (even electric) and want the very latest in grip technology, the SportContact 7 is Continental’s answer – it’s tailor made for modern sports cars and EVs and available in 18–24″ sizes.
ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus – A UHP all season tire for those who need year round performance, including light snow capability. “DWS” stands for Dry, Wet, Snow, and this tire is designed to deliver on all three. It also carries SportPlus™ Technology, similar to the summer Sport 02, to ensure precise handling on dry roads, confident wet grip, and improved tread life. The DWS 06 Plus is the updated version of the highly regarded DWS 06, tuned for even better snow traction and refinement. It features Continental’s clever Tuned Performance Indicators – the letters “D”, “W”, “S” are molded into the tread blocks and disappear as the tire’s capability in each condition fades (e.g. when “S” is gone, the tire no longer has optimal snow grip). In independent testing, the DWS 06 Plus is extremely competitive with other top all season UHP tires. For instance, it delivered best in test stopping on wet roads and strong overall performance in one Tire Rack comparison, while the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 showed slightly higher lateral grip on the skidpad. The trade offs: Michelin’s compound might feel a touch sportier in hard cornering, whereas the Continental DWS 06 Plus tends to have an edge in wet traction and light snow traction, aligning with its DWS mission. Many drivers choose the DWS 06 Plus for real world versatility – it’s a tire that can handle a track day in a pinch, then get you home through an unexpected snowfall. It also undercuts the Pilot Sport A/S 4 in price by roughly $100–$200 per set, making it a high value choice.
ExtremeContact Force
A niche entry, this is a 200 treadwear competition tire co-developed with Hoosier, aimed at weekend racers and track enthusiasts. Available through select channels , the ExtremeContact Force provides “track proven performance” with a stylish design. It sacrifices some ride comfort and wet grip for maximum dry traction and heat tolerance. This tire directly targets the likes of the BFGoodrich g-Force Rival and Yokohama Advan A052. If you’re an autocrosser or track day regular, the ExtremeContact Force offers an intriguing blend: it’s street legal, but its heart is pure racing (developed by Hoosier).
Performance Tire Comparison
Continental’s performance lineup stacks up impressively against the industry’s best. In grip and handling, the ExtremeContact Sport 02 and SportContact 7 are proven to match or beat Michelin’s famed Pilot Sport series in certain metrics (e.g. wet braking distances). Drivers often report that Michelins (Pilot Sport 4S, etc.) have a slight edge in ride comfort and steering feel (the Pilot Sport 4S “does everything at a very high level” with no obvious weaknesses ), whereas Continental’s UHP tires might transmit a bit more road feel and have a stiffer ride in exchange for their razor sharp response. On a road loop, testers found the Michelin’s ride “perfectly composed” and quiet, while the Continental ExtremeContact Sport felt “eager” and more willing to change direction, at the cost of a little extra road noise and impact harshness.
Wet & Snow
In wet and snow performance, Continental often holds an edge. The DWS 06 Plus, in particular, is known for having some of the best snow traction in the ultra high performance class – its pattern and compound make it a true all season (many competitors are really three season tires). This can be a deciding factor for drivers in colder climates. One user summary noted: “Conti DWS06 Plus are better in rain; Michelins handle better”, which encapsulates the common view.
Tread Life
In terms of tread life, Continental’s SportPlus technology is explicitly aimed at extending UHP tire longevity. The ExtremeContact Sport 02, for instance, comes with a 50,000km warranty whereas some competitors like the Bridgestone Potenza Sport have no mileage warranty. All season models like the DWS 06 Plus have around 80,000km warranties. In practice, expect ~35–50k kilometers from the summers and ~60–80k from the all season if driven moderately – similar to Michelin’s warranties.
Noise and comfort: Performance tires prioritize grip, but Continental has innovations here too. Some Continental performance/OE tires are available with ContiSilent™ technology – a sound absorbing foam liner that can cut interior noise by up to 9 dB(A). (A 9 dB drop is nearly a halving of perceived noise.) Likewise, ContiSeal™ self sealing tech is offered on certain Original Equipment fitments to seal punctures up to 5 mm instantly. For example, the ContiProContact (an OE performance touring tire) can be optioned with ContiSilent and ContiSeal for automakers that request it. These technologies give Continental an edge for luxury sport vehicles and EVs, where low cabin noise and puncture protection are desired.
Performance Summary
Continental’s performance tires combine cutting edge compound and tread technology with useful real world features. They generally cost slightly less than equivalent Michelins, yet often deliver class leading wet grip and broad capability. Professional tests and tire aficionados confirm that Continental has closed the gap with the perennial French and Japanese favorites – and in some cases, pulled ahead. If you need a tire that can tame a rain soaked track or provide four season fun, Continental’s ExtremeContact and SportContact lines should be on your short list.
Touring & All Season Continental Tires
For daily driving comfort, long tread life, and reliable all season traction, Continental produces a range of touring tires. These tires emphasize a smooth ride, low noise, fuel efficiency, and longevity – without sacrificing safety in wet or light snow conditions. Continental’s touring lineup covers sedans, coupes, crossovers and family SUVs. Key models include:
TrueContact Tour
A standard all season touring tire known for exceptional tread life and a balanced performance profile. It carries an 130,000km warranty on T & H rated sizes (one of the highest in its class) and is tuned for reliable traction in dry, wet, and light snow conditions. The TrueContact Tour features Continental’s EcoPlus™ Technology, a proprietary compound and tread design package that saves fuel, shortens wet braking distances, and extends tread life. In fact, Continental took their previous top rated TrueContact and improved it, adding EcoPlus to enhance wet grip and treadwear. The result: in company tests, it stops shorter on wet roads and lasts longer than the earlier model. Real world data backs this up – the TrueContact Tour has been a Consumer Reports favourite, often scoring near the top for all season tires with especially high ratings in tread life and wet braking. One independent test (2025) directly compared the TrueContact Tour to the Michelin Defender2 (Michelin’s premium all season touring tire) and found Continental dominated in winter traction: the TrueContact Tour stopped from 25 mph on snow in 73.4 ft vs 84.5 ft for the Defender2 – a 15% shorter distance. It also accelerated better on snow (0–12 mph in 31.5 ft vs 36.4 ft, ~16% advantage). Even on ice, the Conti stopped ~1.8 ft shorter than the Michelin. These are crucial safety margins in winter weather. The trade off? The Michelin Defender2 is designed for slightly higher durability – testers note the Defender may hold a slight edge in ultimate tread life (it has a two ply casing and very hard compound). But in that same test, both tires carried an identical 840 UTQG treadwear rating and 130k warranty; interestingly, the Continental earned better traction and temperature grades (A/A vs Michelin’s B/B) , indicating it maintains grip and runs cooler despite similar wear rating. In terms of ride, the TrueContact Tour is quiet and cushioned. Drivers describe it as “relaxed and laid back… excels at eating up highway miles,” with minimal tread noise on smooth roads. It’s slightly less “stiff” on the road than a Defender2, which some drivers prefer for comfort. Overall, if you want a long lasting tire that also gives you an edge in rain and snow, the TrueContact Tour is a top contender.
Pure Contact LS
A “luxury sport” all season touring tire for those who want a bit more performance feel. The PureContact LS is tuned for responsive handling and stronger grip on wet roads, making it a step sportier than the TrueContact. It still features EcoPlus Technology for efficiency and long wear, but it targets drivers of luxury sedans and sporty coupes who seek a quiet, refined ride and good steering precision. The PureContact LS has a 110,000km warranty, slightly lower than the TrueContact Tour, reflecting its performance oriented compound. In independent comparisons, the PureContact LS often competes with the Michelin CrossClimate2 (an all weather tire) and Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack. The Bridgestone QuietTrack is a benchmark for low noise, and the PureContact LS is in the same league – owners frequently praise the Continental for its near silent highway ride and lack of vibration. Meanwhile, against Michelin’s CrossClimate2 (which is an aggressive all season with winter certification), the PureContact LS will typically have less snow grip (since it’s a regular all season, not 3PMSF rated) but better ride comfort and longer tread life. It’s worth noting that the PureContact LS placed first in a 2020 Tire Rack “Grand Touring All Season” test, earning top marks in wet braking and ride quality, narrowly beating Michelin’s then Premier A/S. That said, Michelin replaced the Premier with the CrossClimate2, changing the game with winter performance. So, if you never see heavy snow but want a luxury grade touring tire with crisp handling, the PureContact LS is an excellent choice. If you do want true winter capability in this segment from Continental, see the CrossContact LX25 or consider jumping to an all weather tire (or dedicated winter set).
CrossContact LX25
A crossover/SUV touring all season tire designed for modern SUVs and crossover vehicles. It’s essentially the SUV counterpart to the TrueContact/PureContact, engineered for higher load capacities and the unique demands of crossovers (which often have a higher center of gravity). The CrossContact LX25 also uses EcoPlus Technology and boasts a 110,000km warranty, indicating long life. Its focus is on smooth, quiet ride and year round traction. In fact, Continental developed pattern features like computer optimized pattern shifting to reduce noise (staggering tread block sizes to avoid harmonic noise). The LX25 has been very well received: in Tire Rack’s rankings it scores “Excellent” in almost every category (wet and dry traction, comfort, etc.) and is one of the top rated Crossover Touring tires. In a 2021 Tire Rack test, the CrossContact LX25 nearly matched the class leading Michelin (Premier LTX at the time) in subjective comfort and actually tied the Michelin in two of three handling categories – essentially neck and neck performance. By 2024, new rivals appeared like Michelin’s Defender2 SUV tire and the Michelin CrossClimate2 SUV. Compared to the CrossClimate2 (which has aggressive tread), the CrossContact LX25 was found to be more “relaxed and gentle”, delivering a plush ride, whereas the CrossClimate felt sportier but slightly firmer. A summary from Consumer Reports also noted the LX25 is quieter, while the Michelin Defender tires may eke out a bit more treadwear; both are excellent and scored almost identically overall. For drivers of RAV4s, CR-Vs, Santa Fes, etc., the CrossContact LX25 hits a sweet spot: easy on the ears, easy on fuel, and confidence inspiring in rain. It also carries the M+S (mud & snow) rating; and while it’s not a true winter tire, its tread is designed to provide “sure footed traction in dry, wet, and wintry conditions, including light snow”. Those in very snowy climates might still opt for a dedicated winter tire or an all weather, but many report the LX25 handles moderate winter weather surprisingly well.
ProContact Series (RX, TX, GX)
These are Original Equipment (OE) touring tires often found on new cars (from brands like Audi, Tesla, etc.). For example, ProContact RX and ProContact TX are luxury all season touring tires Continental supplies to manufacturers. They prioritize low rolling resistance, ride comfort, and low noise to meet strict automaker requirements. The ProContact RX is described as a “luxury, all season touring tire for passenger cars and crossovers,” often tuned specifically for certain models. The ProContact TX similarly is a “premium all season touring tire” used as factory equipment. These OE tires may not have the same wet grip or long warranty as aftermarket focused models like TrueContact Tour (since automakers sometimes trade off a bit of wet traction for better fuel economy or other targets), but they are balanced. Notably, some ProContact variations come with ContiSilent and ContiSeal in OEM form – for instance, certain Tesla models use Continental ProContact RX with foam silencers and self sealing tech to handle punctures. If you’re replacing an OE Continental, you can either stick with the ProContact or consider upgrading to a TrueContact/PureContact which will usually give longer life and improved wet traction. Continental also offers the ContiProContact (without “RX/TX”), an older all season model that has been a factory fitment on many vehicles. It’s a proven design with emphasis on ride comfort and year round civility, but dated compared to newer EcoPlus tires. The ContiProContact is still sold in the aftermarket (with 407 reviews on Continental’s site, it’s popular) and is billed as a “premium, all season touring tire” with good comfort. It doesn’t excel in one particular area but has no serious weaknesses – a jack of all trades tire often competing with Goodyear Eagle Sport All Season (for OE on sedans) or Bridgestone Ecopia HL422 (on hybrids).
Touring Tire Comparison
In the grand touring all season segment (for passenger cars), Continental’s biggest rival is Michelin’s Defender2 (and prior Defender T+H). Both aim for top tier longevity. As noted, Consumer Reports found them extremely close overall, with a slight edge to Michelin in tread life and to Continental in quietness. Notably, the Continental TrueContact Tour provides markedly better snow traction than Michelin Defender2, which could sway buyers in snowy regions. Bridgestone’s main offering, the Turanza QuietTrack, is known for being exceptionally quiet and smooth. The PureContact LS and CrossContact LX25 were designed to match that – and they do deliver a “very quiet, refined ride” by most accounts. Bridgestone often prices the QuietTrack a bit lower and trades some wet grip for that silence. Continental tends to offer a more wet biased balance – e.g., the EcoPlus tech in TrueContact/PureContact uses high silica compounds and +Silane additives to grab slick pavement , giving them short stopping distances in rain. Goodyear’s entries (e.g. Assurance WeatherReady for all weather, or Assurance MaxLife for long tread life) are competitive but usually rank mid pack in tests. They might offer slightly lower price points or, in the WeatherReady’s case, true winter certification, but often come with compromises (the WeatherReady can be noisier, for example). BFGoodrich (owned by Michelin) has the Advantage T/A Sport which targets this category as a value alternative – it’s decent in dry handling but typically not as quiet or long lasting as the Continental/Michelin class leaders.
Looking for confidence inspiring, efficient, and comfortable driving? They incorporate advanced tech like EcoPlus for fuel savings and QuickView indicators on the tread that visually show performance levels (some Continentals have numbers or letters in the tread – a quick glance can tell you if your tire is still good for wet or snow). They’re frequently top rated for noise comfort, making them great for road trips and daily commutes where tire drone can be fatiguing. And with long warranties (up to 130,000km) , they appeal to cost conscious buyers who calculate cost per mile. Continental has managed to achieve this without the price premium of Michelin – often priced slightly lower while delivering class leading wet/snow traction (as evidenced by the head to head data). For first time tire buyers, a set of Continentals can significantly upgrade your car’s ride and safety without breaking the bank. Experienced drivers will appreciate the nuanced improvements (like better steering feel in the PureContact LS, or the extremely quiet tread of the CrossContact LX25). And fleet/commercial users can look to the TrueContact Tour and TerrainContact H/T (discussed next) to reduce downtime and fuel costs over tens of thousands of miles.
Off Road & All Terrain Continental Tires (SUV/Truck)
If you drive a truck or SUV and venture off the pavement – whether it’s gravel trails, muddy worksites, or camping in the woods – Continental offers all terrain and off road capable tires that balance off road toughness with on road civility. The emphasis for Continental’s A/T tires is often refined on road manners (quietness, ride) coupled with solid off road traction for the category sometimes called “mild all terrains.” Major models include:
TerrainContact A/T
An all terrain tire engineered for pickups, Jeeps, and SUVs that see mixed use. Continental calls it a “premium all season all terrain tire” , highlighting that it truly can be used year round (it carries the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol for winter traction compliance). The TerrainContact A/T is designed to be quieter and more fuel efficient on road than traditional aggressive A/T tires. It uses an open tread with staggered tread blocks and lots of siping for gripping slick surfaces, but the void pattern is optimized to reduce “whine” at highway speeds. In user forums and reviews, one theme is clear: “They’re quiet. Seriously silent. Quieter than some highway tires,” as one driver observed. That’s a remarkable trait for an off road tire. Continental achieved this via tread pattern pitch sequencing and pattern shifting techniques similar to their touring tires, just applied to an A/T mold. Don’t let the civility fool you – the TerrainContact A/T still has off road cred: Traction ridges in the grooves help claw at mud and sand, and it has a cut and chip resistant tread compound for gravel roads. It also features sidewall lugs for extra bite in soft soil. Where it may give up something to the most aggressive A/Ts is in extremely deep mud or sharp rock terrain – the tread lugs aren’t as massive as, say, a BFGoodrich KO2 or Goodyear Wrangler MT/R (mud terrain). But for the vast majority of off road adventures and overlanding, it’s fully capable. It even has a 100,000km treadwear warranty , a rarity among all terrains (most competitors offer ~50k or no mileage warranty). In snowy conditions, the TerrainContact A/T’s 3PMSF rating isn’t just for show – drivers report it behaves more like a strong all season than a slippy off road tire on snow, thanks to its high sipe density. In comparison tests, the TerrainContact A/T often gets grouped with other “on road focused” A/T tires. For example, it was benchmarked against the Michelin LTX A/T2 and Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus, and typically the Continental excelled in wet braking and ride comfort, while being competitive in dry handling. It might not beat a dedicated off road tire in deep muck, but against similar mild A/Ts, it’s at or near the top in most categories.
TerrainContact H/T
A highway terrain all season tire for light trucks and full size SUVs. Think of this as Continental’s answer to the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza. The TerrainContact H/T is tuned for long tread life (up to 110,000km) , excellent wet braking, and quiet highway ride. It’s essentially a touring tire built with truck durability. It features interlocking tread blocks and solid ribs in the center for stability (great for towing or heavy payloads, as it keeps the vehicle from squirming on the tires). Wide circumferential grooves and lots of siping help channel water and grip in rain. Compared to the A/T above, the H/T has a much tighter tread pattern – it’s not intended for mud or deep off road, but it can handle dirt roads and light gravel easily. On road, it’s very smooth. Continental uses a computer optimized pattern here as well to minimize noise “spikes” at certain speeds. Many owners comment that swapping to TerrainContact H/Ts feels like upgrading the ride quality of their truck – less hum and harshness than the OEM tires. In wet conditions, Continental gives it high marks, and one can see why: in third party tests, it often stops a few feet shorter than Goodyear Wrangler SR-A or Firestone Destination LE2 (common OE tires on trucks). For winter, it’s an all season (M+S rated) – good for light snow, but not a replacement for a true winter tire in severe cold. The TerrainContact H/T competes with the best of the highway all seasons. Michelin’s Defender LTX is famed for longevity and is the stock answer for many truck owners; the TerrainContact H/T matches its 110k warranty and adds a bit more emphasis on wet grip. In a 2022 head to head, Popular Mechanics found the Continental H/T slightly quieter and better on wet roads, whereas the Michelin felt a tad more responsive in dry cornering (owing to a slightly stiffer tread). For heavy duty use (3/4 ton trucks, etc.), both are robust choices. Bridgestone’s new Alenza AS Ultra is also in this category – it claims an 130,000km life, but in practice, whether it outlasts the Conti by much is unclear (UTQG ratings are similar). The Continental H/T also tends to be priced attractively – often a bit less than Michelin – and backed by a strong warranty and Total Confidence Plan (roadside assistance, road hazard, etc.). Overall, if your truck or SUV is a daily driver and you want a comfortable, long wearing tire for highways and city streets, the TerrainContact H/T is hard to beat.
CrossContact ATR (and LX20)
Continental previously offered the CrossContact ATR as a slightly more aggressive all terrain, and the CrossContact LX20 as an earlier SUV touring tire. By early 2024, these are largely superseded by the TerrainContact line (A/T and H/T respectively). However, you might still encounter these models as OEM or in certain sizes. The CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus was a very popular OEM crossover tire (found on vehicles like the Honda Pilot). It has since been effectively replaced by the CrossContact LX25 , which improved on noise and wet grip. The LX20 was known for good mileage and a soft ride but could feel a bit vague in handling. The CrossContact ATR was an all terrain tire focusing more on off road than the TerrainContact A/T – it had more open shoulder blocks for self cleaning in mud. Continental doesn’t push it as much now, likely because the TerrainContact A/T achieved a nice balance that covers most use cases. If you have CrossContact ATRs, you can expect solid snow performance (it’s also 3PMSF rated) and slightly more off road bias than TerrainContact, but also more noise.
Off Road Tire Comparison
The off road tire market is crowded, so how does Continental stack up?
In the All Terrain (A/T) segment, the BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 is often considered the benchmark for rugged off road use. It has very aggressive tread blocks and a 3 ply sidewall for puncture resistance. That makes it tough as nails off road, but it also makes it noisy and stiff on road. A Tire Rack evaluation noted the KO2 had less on road grip and longer wet braking than newer “mild” A/T designs – unsurprising given its age and focus. The Continental TerrainContact A/T, by contrast, is one of those modern designs aimed at on road livability. It doesn’t quite match the KO2 in deep mud or rock durability (KO2 has a thick sidewall and huge lugs – it can air down and crawl over rocks with less risk), but for everyday drivers who occasionally venture off pavement, the Continental is often the better choice. It’s much quieter (KO2s are known to “sing” or drone on the highway) and has better wet traction (the KO2’s weakness is wet braking, where the TerrainContact excels). As one off road forum member succinctly put it after switching: “KO2s are great off road, but the Contis are way better on road – quieter, lighter, and with better rain grip” (and even improve fuel economy slightly due to lower rolling resistance). Another new player, the Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure with Kevlar, tries to split the difference – it’s tougher than the Conti (with a layer of Kevlar and a bit more lug), but owners still report more noise from the Goodyear and some vibration at highway speeds that they don’t get with TerrainContact. On price, the Continental A/T is usually in the mid to high range, similar to Michelin’s LTX Trail or Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain. The KO2 and Goodyear Wrangler can be a bit more expensive in certain sizes (reflecting their brand positioning and off road heritage).
For Highway/Touring SUV tires, the competition is between Continental’s TerrainContact H/T, Michelin’s Defender LTX, Goodyear’s Assurance MaxLife (SUV) or Wrangler Fortitude HT, and Bridgestone’s Alenza offerings. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S has long been the gold standard for longevity on trucks – many users see 60k+ miles easily. Continental’s H/T is engineered to be on par, and it even comes in a TerrainContact H/T “HD” variant for heavy duty LT-metric sizes with a 60k warranty (versus 110k on P-metric). The TerrainContact H/T distinguishes itself with excellent wet performance – important for safety when you’ve got a big vehicle and maybe towing. One tire shop test showed a pickup on Conti H/Ts stopping a full truck length shorter in the rain than on Firestone Destination LE2 tires. In terms of noise, Bridgestone’s new Alenza AS Ultra claims a slight advantage, but it’s negligible; the H/T is already very quiet for a truck tire.
Continental’s off road capable tires present a “best of both worlds” option for many drivers: The TerrainContact A/T gives you authentic all terrain traction (dirt, sand, gravel, and light mud) and winter usability without the noise and discomfort penalties that usually come with off road tires. And the TerrainContact H/T provides the durability and treadlife demanded by truck owners plus a civilized ride that rivals passenger car tires. Unless you’re regularly rock crawling or mud bogging (in which case a more extreme tire or even a mud terrain like BFG Mud Terrain or Goodyear MT/R might be warranted), the Continental A/T will likely handle everything you throw at it off road. For daily driving on trucks/SUVs, many find Continental’s offerings make the driving experience feel “upgraded” – quieter, smoother, and more sure footed in rain or light snow compared to stock tires from the factory. Given their strong warranties and test performances, they are a smart investment for SUV/truck owners who split their time between the highway and the trail.
Winter & Snow Continental Tires
When temperatures drop and roads turn icy, winter tires make a world of difference in safety and control. Continental has a rich history of producing top tier winter tires – in fact, as a German company, they rigorously test in Alpine conditions. Their current winter lineup for cars, SUVs, and trucks includes studless ice & snow tires for extreme winter weather and performance winter tires for high speed stability on cold dry roads. Notable models and tech:
VikingContact 7 (and new VikingContact 8)
These are studless ice & snow tires designed for maximum grip on ice, packed snow, and slush. The VikingContact series (sold in North America) is analogous to Continental’s famed “WinterContact” line in Europe. The VikingContact 7 has been widely praised since its introduction: it features PolarPlus™ Technology, a compound that stays flexible in sub zero temperatures to maintain grip, with added +Silane additives for wet ice traction. The tread has a directional pattern with a high density of traction grooves and sipes. Traction Grooves act like little snow shovels – they create biting edges inside the tread grooves to enhance snow on snow grip (a technique where packed snow in the tread helps clump with snow on the road). These design elements give the VikingContact exceptional stopping power on wintry surfaces. In one test, the VikingContact 7 out braked a Michelin X-Ice in snow and was on par in ice braking, while also delivering good handling feel for a winter tire. As of early 2024, Continental launched the VikingContact 8, which is an evolution with tweaks for even better performance (Continental claims improvements in snow handling and mileage). The VikingContact 8 carries on the formula – a pliable Nordic compound, a tread optimized for both snow and wet pavement, and the 3PMSF certification of course. Both VC7 and VC8 are aimed at drivers in severe winter climates who need confidence on everything from black ice to slushy highways. They compete with the best: Bridgestone Blizzak WS90, Michelin X-Ice Snow, Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5, and Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice. In these ranks, subtle differences exist: the Blizzak is often cited as king of pure ice traction (thanks to its proprietary multicell compound that exposes micro pores like suction cups on ice). However, Blizzaks tend to wear faster and once the top compound layer is gone, some grip advantage fades. The VikingContact, by contrast, is engineered for more consistent performance over its life. European tests (Auto Bild, etc.) have frequently put Continental winter tires at or near the top for balanced performance – for instance, Auto Bild’s big 2024 winter tire test in 205/55R16 saw Continental among the top finishers for its well rounded abilities in dry, wet, and snow. Users often report the VikingContacts give a slight edge in dry road handling and steering response compared to the typically squishy feel of Blizzak WS series tires. And impressively, the VikingContact 7 was rated number one by a Scandinavian tire test in 2019 for its ice braking and snow traction, dethroning Nokian in its home turf. For everyday winter driving (commuting, road trips, etc.), the VikingContact series offers real world safety benefits – shorter stops, better acceleration on slick climbs, and reliable handling – all without the need for studs.
WinterContact TS 870 P / TS 860 S
These are performance winter tires targeted at sports cars, performance sedans, and high powered SUVs. They prioritize a combination of winter traction and high speed capability/precise handling on cold dry roads. The WinterContact TS 870 P (for performance vehicles and many SUVs) and the related TS 860 S (for sports cars) are Continental’s latest in the central European style winter tires. They feature asymmetric tread patterns (for balanced lateral grip and water evacuation) and a new generation compound that Continental calls Cool Chili or Black Chili for winter, which is formulated to remain grippy in cold wet conditions while not wearing too quickly on dry pavement. In Auto Bild’s 2024 test of SUV winter tires, the WinterContact TS 870 P took 1st place with testers stating it had “very convincing winter qualities, reliable in all weather, and shortest braking distances”. Notably, in an Auto Bild Allrad (SUV) test, the TS 870 P stopped 11 meters shorter from 80 km/h than the worst tire in test (highlighting how huge the gap can be between a top winter tire and a subpar one). They praised its strong safety reserves on wet surfaces and generally well balanced behavior. That speaks to Continental’s approach – these performance winters don’t excel at one thing to the detriment of others; instead, they aim for no major weaknesses. The WinterContact TS 860 S is a variant meant for sports coupes and super sedans – it has a slightly simpler tread (fewer sipes, more stable blocks) to allow higher cornering speeds on dry cold roads, while still having enough biting edges for snow. It’s described as a “sporty UHP winter tire” that still manages great snow traction. If you drive an AMG, BMW M, or Audi S/RS in winter, these are the type of tires you’d use – capable of 130+ mph where allowed, with reinforced construction for high load/handling. They line up against tires like the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3, and Dunlop Winter Sport series. In those comparisons, Continental often edges out others in wet braking and snow handling. For example, Auto Bild Sportscars tests have shown the TS 860 S/870 P combo providing the shortest wet and dry braking in its class while still being among the best on snow – truly no compromise. The only minor trade off noted was maybe a “slight weakness in dry braking” compared to a pure performance tire on clear roads , but that is relative (all winter tires give up some dry performance vs. summer tires).
WinterContact SI & others
In North America, Continental used to offer the WinterContact SI (Special Ice) as a studless winter tire. The VikingContact has effectively superseded it, but you might still see WinterContact SI on some retailer shelves. The SI had a directional arrow shaped tread and also used PolarPlus compound. It was very good, but the VikingContact 7 improved upon it with newer compound tech and pattern. Continental also makes a studdable winter tire in some markets called IceContact Xtreme (with factory stud options), but these are limited in North America and more common in Nordic countries. For most consumers, the VikingContact and WinterContact lines cover all needs (studless). If you require studs (e.g., in certain mountainous or Arctic areas where mandated or truly necessary), Continental’s studded models are usually region specific.
Winter Tire Comparison
Continental’s winter tires are consistently among the top-ranked in Europe and are growing in popularity in North America.
Against Michelin X-Ice Snow, the VikingContact 7/8 is very closely matched. Michelin traditionally focused on long wear and ice grip; the X-Ice Snow is excellent on ice and has perhaps the longest treadlife in category (Michelin gives it a 70,000km warranty which is rare for winter tires). The Continental VikingContact tends to have slightly better snow and slush performance and a more “locked in” feel in dry handling. In one test, the X-Ice and Viking were within a few inches in ice braking, but the Continental was a bit ahead in snow acceleration and braking. Michelin might maintain an edge in ride comfort and tread longevity. So if you drive mainly on sheer ice and want a tire that lasts many winters, Michelin is often recommended; if you want a tire that excels on a mix of ice, deep snow, and wet roads with a more engaging feel, Continental is a top choice.
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 (for cars) and DM-V2 (for SUVs) are kind of the default in North America for hardcore winter traction. They use a unique foamed rubber that literally wicks away the water film on ice. In the first half of tread, they’re outstanding on ice – sometimes a tad better than Continental. But they, by design, sacrifice some dry road precision (soft tread blocks) and once about 55% worn, they lose the special compound advantage. The VikingContact, by contrast, has all its tread made of one compound, engineered to maintain performance until the end (and includes indicators to show when you’ve worn down to 4mm, which is about the minimum for effective snow performance ). So a mid life VikingContact can outperform a mid life Blizzak because the latter’s top compound is gone. Also, Bridgestone doesn’t warranty Blizzaks; Continental offers its road hazard warranty even on winter tires as part of the Total Confidence Plan. So peace of mind means Continental.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta tires (like the R5) are another big name – Nokian arguably invented the category. The Hakkas have superb ice grip and very low rolling resistance. In recent tests, though, Continental has edged Nokian in overall balance – Nokians sometimes struggle slightly in wet braking on warmer days, whereas Continentals are strong there. Auto Bild’s editors often compliment Continental winter tires for “strong safety reserves on wet”, meaning even in slushy or just cold rain conditions, they perform excellently. That’s important, as a lot of “winter” driving is actually in the wet just above freezing.
One should also mention Continental’s clever technologies in winter tires: besides PolarPlus compound, they have things like +Silane additives for wet grip , traction grooves and sipes that interlock under load to give stability on dry roads. They also often include tread wear indicators specifically for winter – e.g., the VikingContact and VanContact (van winter tire) have numbers in the tread that disappear at certain tread depths (5mm, 4mm, etc.) , reminding you when the tire’s snow performance is diminishing and it might be time to replace (since a winter tire with only 4/32” (3mm) tread is no longer effective in snow).
Continental’s winter tires are a fantastic choice for anyone facing snow, ice, and cold. They give you shorter stopping distances and better control – possibly the difference between a close call and a collision on a February morning. Whether you’re in Buffalo, Montreal, or the Rockies, a set of VikingContacts or WinterContacts will inspire confidence. And if you drive a performance car year round, the TS 870 P / TS860 S will let you enjoy spirited driving on dry cold roads while still having the biting power to tackle a ski trip. They exemplify Continental’s ethos of innovative engineering for real world safety – as one test summary put it: “Conti’s winter tire sets the standard for braking on wet and dry, with a big plus in safety.”
Commercial & Van Continental Tires
Commercial vans, light trucks, and RVs have unique tire needs: they carry heavy loads, rack up high mileage, and often endure rough city roads or long highway hauls. Continental addresses this with their VanContact series and related commercial tires, which focus on durability, mileage, and safety under load. These tires are built with tougher internal construction (often steel reinforcements and higher ply ratings), and compounds optimized for tread life and fuel efficiency. Key models include:
VanContact A/S
An All Season tire for cargo vans and light trucks, developed for fleets and commercial duty. It’s made in popular cargo van sizes (like 235/65R16C, etc.) and is engineered to handle the high loads (often denoted with a “C” or “LT” load range). The VanContact A/S provides good year round traction on dry and wet roads, and moderate performance in winter (M+S rated; some sizes might have 3PMSF, though the standard VanContact A/S was primarily an all season without the full snow symbol). The focus here is on tread life and durability – it’s built to last under hard use. Delivery vans, for example, do a lot of stop and go with heavy payloads; the VanContact has a reinforced carcass and a tread compound that resists scrubbing (from frequent turning and braking). Drivers report that compared to stock tires (like some OEM budget tires on vans), the VanContact A/S improved the ride comfort (important when a van is empty) and gave a secure wet grip feel.
VanContact A/S Ultra
This is Continental’s latest generation (introduced around 2023) all weather tire for vans. It’s termed a “premium, all weather touring tire for cargo vans”. The Ultra builds upon the VanContact A/S but adds 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, meaning it meets the severe snow service criteria. It was “developed specifically for fleet vehicles” with an emphasis on superior mileage (Continental claims improved tread life over the regular VanContact A/S by a significant margin). It also boasts robust durability (strong casing to handle potholes and curbs) and superior fuel efficiency (a low rolling resistance compound to save fuel for fleet operators). Essentially, the VanContact A/S Ultra is made to lower the total cost of ownership for fleet and commercial users: last longer, use less fuel, and provide year round capability (including winter). The fact that it’s 3PMSF rated means many fleets can avoid seasonal tire changes – a big plus in regions with occasional snow. Continental even integrated some nifty features: it has tread wear indicators in the form of numbers (5,4,3) molded in the tread; as the tire wears down from 5 mm to 4 mm to 3 mm, the numbers disappear. This gives fleet managers a quick visual cue to replace tires before they fall below a safe tread depth for rain/snow. In terms of performance, the VanContact A/S Ultra offers excellent snow traction for a van tire (it’s not a dedicated winter tire like the Continental VancoWinter, but it’s designed to handle snow belt duty). It also has enhanced sipe pattern for wet grip. In one internal test, the A/S Ultra stopped a cargo van on wet pavement a few feet shorter than a competitor’s tire (names not disclosed, but likely comparing to something like Michelin Agilis or Goodyear Cargo). Compared to Michelin Agilis CrossClimate (Michelin’s all weather van tire in Europe) or Goodyear UltraGrip Cargo, the Conti holds its own or leads. Michelin’s strength is often sidewall toughness (they advertise their “CurbGuard” and long wear) – but the Agilis CrossClimate has been noted to be a bit noisy and stiff. The VanContact Ultra, according to Continental, optimized the pattern for noise since van tires can drone when unladen. So expect a relatively quiet ride (for a commercial tire) and a bit more comfort. Also, a Continental press release mentioned that in testing the Ultra showed 25% longer tread life than a leading competitor tire – a major factor for fleets.
VancoFourSeason
An older design all season van tire (the name literally indicating four season use). Some tradesmen and van owners might be familiar with the Vanco series (VancoFourSeason, VancoWinter, etc.). The VancoFourSeason was a well regarded tire known for great mileage and solid all-year traction. It’s likely being phased out in favor of the VanContact line, but you might still find it on some vehicles or in certain markets. It had a fairly ribbed tread pattern with lateral grooves – good for highway stability and decent in rain. Its winter ability was okay for an all season but not snowflake rated. The VanContact A/S Ultra can be seen as the modern replacement offering true all weather ability plus better noise and wear.
TerrainContact H/T (Commercial)
While covered under Off Road above, it’s worth noting that the TerrainContact H/T is also made in heavier LT sizes and is designed to serve commercial pickup and van users too. In LT sizes it has a 60k mile warranty and very sturdy construction. For example, a plumbing company with Ford F-250 service trucks could run TerrainContact H/T and get a quiet ride on the highway to jobs plus long life, instead of using noisy off road tires that aren’t needed. So, Continental’s offerings for commercial vehicles may span into the TerrainContact line if a slightly more aggressive or truck oriented tire is needed.
Commercial Tire Comparison
The major players for van and light truck commercial tires are Michelin (Agilis line, Defender LTX for pickups), Bridgestone (Duravis line), Goodyear (Endurance RSA, Wrangler HT), and to some extent BFGoodrich (Commercial T/A). Continental’s VanContact A/S Ultra is a direct challenger to Michelin Agilis and Bridgestone Duravis All Season. Michelin’s Agilis tires have a strong reputation for durability – many last a long time due to extra rubber and a harder compound. However, that hardness can reduce wet traction and ride comfort. Continental appears to have taken a more balanced approach: ensure the tire lasts, but also make it safer in the wet and snow. The inclusion of the 3PMSF rating on the VanContact A/S Ultra really sets it apart – Michelin’s Agilis CrossClimate is similarly rated in Europe (and it’s excellent, with aggressive siping), but in North America many van tires (even all season) are not severe snow rated. So fleets in Canada or the northern US might find the Continentals save them from switching to dedicated winters.
In terms of grip vs. tread life trade off, Michelin often leans slightly toward tread life – e.g., the Michelin Defender LTX (for trucks) has a UTQG traction B, meaning on the standardized test it didn’t meet the “A” level for wet grip. That’s a conscious design for longevity and chip resistance. Continental’s commercial tires like TerrainContact H/T and VanContact Ultra managed to hit Traction “A” ratings while still offering competitive tread life warranties. That indicates a more advanced compound that doesn’t sacrifice wet safety. It’s something to consider: if you do a lot of driving in rain (or snow), having that extra margin of grip (even if it meant possibly a tiny bit shorter life) can be worth it for safety. Continental seems to be delivering both, using silica compounds to maintain wet grip even in a long wearing tire.
In fuel efficiency, manufacturers often tout their tires’ low rolling resistance to fleets (since fuel is a major cost). Continental explicitly notes “superior fuel efficiency” for the VanContact A/S Ultra. Michelin also positions some Agilis models as “Energy Saver” types. Without specific data it’s hard to crown one, but generally any new gen tire with an “LRR” (Low Rolling Resistance) compound and optimized tread can improve fuel economy by a few percent over older designs. Fleet test reports have shown that swapping from a chunky tread to a ribbed LRR tire can save a delivery van hundreds of dollars in fuel a year. So it’s significant that Continental emphasizes this – they know it’s a selling point for commercial operators.
Ride and noise
Van tires aren’t usually praised for ride, but the Ultra and others are described as having touring tire DNA. For example, one small business owner who switched a Sprinter van to VanContact tires mentioned the van felt “less like a cargo van and more like an SUV” on the highway – smoother, with fewer vibrations. Continental’s use of pattern shifting and phased tread blocks even in these tires likely helps avoid the annoying harmonic noise that some van tires make around 60 mph.
For winter, Continental also has dedicated van winter tires in some regions (like VikingContact 7 VAN or VanContact Winter). The VanContact A/S Ultra tries to cover winter, but if you’re frequently on ice, a dedicated winter like Continental VancoWinter 2 (if available) or the VikingContact in a LT size might be warranted. However, many fleets prefer the all weather approach to avoid downtime swapping tires.
Continental’s commercial and van tires leverage the company’s passenger tire tech to deliver quiet, efficient, and long lasting performance in a segment that historically was about compromises. They stand toe to toe with Michelin’s offerings, often at a more attractive price point. For fleet managers, that means lower cost per mile without giving up wet safety or driver comfort. For the everyday van or RV owner, it means you can get tires that make your big vehicle handle and ride more like a confident sedan. Continental covers it with warranties (e.g. 70k on VanContact H/T, and even their confidence plan on commercial tires) and technologies like ContiSeal for those OE fitments (some Ford Transit vans with Continentals have had ContiSeal to reduce downtime from nails). It’s a comprehensive approach: keep you on the road (self sealing tech), keep you safe (snow traction and wet grip), and save you money (long tread life and fuel efficiency). When comparing brands, consider those points: Continental often gives you the latest innovations (like 3PMSF all weather capability, or tread wear indicators) that others may not yet offer in their van tires. In a world of hard working commercial vehicles, Continental tires are engineered to work just as hard, mile after mile, season after season.
Final Thoughts
Across all categories – from ultra high performance sports tires to heavy duty van tires – Continental has built a well rounded, technology rich lineup as of 2024. Their use of proprietary technologies (like SportPlus™, EcoPlus™, PolarPlus™, ContiSeal™, and ContiSilent™) showcases a commitment to innovation aimed at real world benefits: shorter stopping distances, enhanced grip in all conditions, quieter rides, and fewer puncture headaches. Importantly, independent tests (by Tire Rack, Auto Bild, and others) consistently validate Continental’s claims – often ranking their tires at or near the top of their segments for key performance metrics (wet braking, snow traction, etc.).
Choosing a tire is always about balancing priorities (grip vs. longevity, comfort vs. price), but Continental makes the decision easier by minimizing those trade offs. You’ll frequently find that you don’t have to pay a premium to get a premium performing tire – a persuasive point for first time buyers on a budget. Meanwhile, seasoned drivers will appreciate the nuanced performance advantages (like the precision of SportContact 7 on track, or the quiet confidence of a CrossContact LX25 on a long trip). Commercial users will see bottom line improvements in tire lifespan and fuel usage.
Ultimately, the Continental tire lineup exemplifies “no weaknesses” design philosophy: safe, quiet, durable, and advanced. Whether you need the surefooted grip of a VikingContact in a blizzard, the thrilling handling of an ExtremeContact Sport on a summer backroad, or the enduring tread of a TerrainContact hauling your gear, Continental likely has a tire tailored for the job – proven by both lab tests and road experience to deliver performance you can trust.
