Winter tire tests show budget models can outperform premium brands

Recent testing conducted by the Austrian automobile club ÖAMTC and partner organizations has revealed that budget-friendly winter tires can outperform more expensive, premium brands. In a test of 32 winter tires across two sizes, the Optimo Winter Touring OW41, priced at approximately 42 euros per unit, achieved a rating of 3.2, placing it fifth among 16 models in the 185/65 R15 size category.

The Optimo model outperformed more costly competitors, including the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, which cost roughly 73 euros per unit and received a rating of 3.3, and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM 005, which earned a 3.8 rating despite a higher price point.

Automotive experts emphasize that choosing a new, affordable tire is often safer than using worn-out premium tires. Experts also warn that while all-season tires offer convenience, they may result in braking distances that are 15 to 20 meters longer than specialized winter tires under certain winter conditions.