When Canadian winter arrives, choosing the right tires to tackle harsh conditions becomes a priority for all drivers.
Today, we will compare two premium winter tires that are often in competition: the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 and the Continental WinterContact TS 860 S.
Both models are highly regarded for their performance in snow and safety, but which one is best suited to your specific needs?
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 is a winter tire specifically designed for premium vehicles such as those from Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Tesla. It stands out for its ability to provide maximum safety and exceptional performance on dry, wet, and snowy roads, thanks to a combination of advanced technologies.
This tire uses innovative compounds and 3D sipes to improve grip and reduce braking distances. The directional double-arrow tread pattern and widened grooves optimize traction on snow, ensuring precise vehicle control.
Among the integrated technologies, you'll find ELECT for electric vehicles, RUN FLAT for driving without pressure in case of a puncture, PNCS to reduce interior noise, and SEAL INSIDE for protection against punctures.
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 is available in 16 to 21 inches to fit different vehicles. It is also designed to offer a comfortable ride while maintaining a strong grip in harsh winter conditions.
Shop the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
Continental WinterContact TS 860 S
The Continental WinterContact TS 860 S is designed for drivers looking to tackle winter while
optimizing their vehicle’s energy efficiency, particularly for electric vehicles. This German winter tire stands out for its low rolling resistance, which helps save fuel, a crucial feature for electric vehicles.
The WinterContact TS 860 S winter tire delivers exceptional braking and handling performance, thanks to specially designed traction sipes and new snow grooves that enhance traction on snowy roads.
Additionally, the SSR (Self Supporting Runflat) technology allows you to drive up to 80 km even
after a loss of pressure, eliminating the need for a spare tire. The ContiSilent foam also reduces rolling noise, offering superior driving comfort.
The Continental WinterContact TS 860 S is available in 16 to 22 inches, ensuring compatibility with a variety of vehicles. Its design is ideal for drivers seeking to combine winter performance and energy efficiency.
Shop the Continental WinterContact TS 860 S
Summary Table of Tire Features
| Feature | Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 | Continental WinterContact TS 860 S |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Winter tire | Winter tire |
| Target Audience | Premium vehicles | Electric vehicles |
| Available Sizes | 16 to 21 inches | 16 to 22 inches |
| Speed Rating | H, V, W, Y | H, V, W |
| Mileage Warranty | N/A | N/A |
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 vs Continental WinterContact TS 860 S: Which to Choose?
The choice between these two tires largely depends on your specific needs. If you drive a premium vehicle and are looking for overall performance with a focus on safety and comfort, the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 might be the ideal choice.
Its many integrated technologies, like RUN FLAT and SEAL INSIDE, provide an extra layer of safety, especially useful in Canada’s tough winter conditions.
On the other hand, if you own an electric vehicle and are concerned about energy efficiency, the Continental WinterContact TS 860 S is an excellent choice. With its low rolling resistance and technologies like SSR and ContiSilent, this tire guarantees an efficient and comfortable drive, while still ensuring exceptional snow traction.
Popular Tire Sizes
| Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 | Continental WinterContact TS 860 S |
|---|---|
| 225/40 R18 | 265/40 R21 |
| 235/45 R18 | 285/30 R22 |
| 235/40 R19 | 285/35 R22 |
| 255/45 R19 | |
| 255/40 R20 |
Price Range
Blackcircles.ca regularly updates its prices as we adapt to market changes. The price of a tire generally varies based on size.
| Tire Model | Minimum Price | Maximum Price |
|---|---|---|
| Continental WinterContact TS 860 S | $211.41 CAD* | $710.50 CAD* |
| Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 | $197.61 CAD* | $1339.36 CAD* |
*Please note that tire model prices may fluctuate over time, with fully mounted prices being accurate as of September 09, 2024.
