It fell like an autumn downpour, this first snowstorm. While some flakes were expected, all of a sudden the forecasts changed. And finally, more than 20 centimeters of heavy snow fell on us in less than 24 hours.
Of course, motorists who do not know Blackcircles.ca, or those who are less far-sighted, were desperately trying to line up at their favorite retailer in the hopes of getting winter tires. In many cases this has been a failure. There is a good reason why we ask for an appointment ..
For my part, I was lucky. Mazda, from whom I was driving a test vehicle this week, had equipped its vehicles with adequate winter tires. In my case, under the small CX-3 2020 that I drove were brand new Toyo Observe GSi-5!
No fear of the snow
The Mazda CX-3 is not a big SUV. Its small size makes it fun to drive, manageable and rather dynamic. I admit that I had some fears mainly because of this small size. After all, the winds were blowing with enthusiasm, and the snow was accumulating rapidly. I was a little afraid of the ground clearance too low.
Finally, my fears were not proven. Partly thanks to the CX-3’s intelligent all-wheel drive, thanks in part to the amazing grip of Toyo tires. Early in the morning, my usual snow remover had not yet taken started his work, while those of the town I live in had left a nice heap in front of my yard entrance.
I voluntarily went towards this hill, and even stopped there. I was able to be back on the road, without hesitation, and without hearing the slightest slip of the tire. The Toyo bit into the thick snow without fear.
I also took advantage of ice roads to perform some braking tests. Again, the Toyo bit the surface, without hesitation. So I stopped quickly, and I never felt the slightest loss of control. It is true that the tires are new, and display a perfect sole without the slightest imperfection. Still, I can say that the Toyo have responded well.
Less true on the roadway
On the other hand, I had more difficulties on the wet pavement. Because once the urban area left, I approached the highway with caution but enthusiasm. The first meters made a slight jolt, an unequivocal sign that the snow had remained stuck in the tire grooves. Fortunately, it only lasted a short time.
Once this moment passed, it was the rolling noise, slightly nagging, that occupied the cabin of my Mazda.
I then had fun trying a more dynamic driving. I confirm, the Mazda CX-3 may not be the most powerful, but its precise direction and well-balanced suspensions make it very dynamic. I would have liked to say the same for the Toyo tires that, on a hardened roadway, seemed to cause a little floating.
Let’s be serious: the Toyo Observ GSi-5 are high quality winter tires. They are efficient, safe and have an excellent reputation for sustainability. Their only fault is to be a little noisy. A handicap that does not bother me so much, if I can feel safe while driving in the snow and ice. And that’s the case with the Toyo!
