ADAC Winter Tire Test 225/40 R18 2025

ADAC tested 31 winter tire models in the 225/40 R18 H/V size in 2025 – the largest number ever tested in this dimension. The aim was to objectively compare tires across price segments – from budget to quality to premium brands.

Main findings from the test

• Of the 31 tires tested, 6 were rated "good", 10 "satisfactory", 4 "sufficient" and as many as 11 were rated "insufficient/poor" (mangelhaft).
• All of the tires with very poor ratings came from the budget segment. Many of them had problems with insufficient grip on snow, poor braking performance on wet surfaces, or inadequate stability.
• Solid results emerged in the higher price (quality and premium) segments – some models are suitable if the driver knows their strengths and weaknesses.
• Premium tires dominated – 6 of the models with a “good” rating were from this segment. Among them , the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, Bridgestone Blizzak 6, Dunlop Winter Sport 5, Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330 and Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stand out.
• The best model according to the overall rating was the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 due to its excellent balance between safety, traction and environmental impact.
• There were also exceptions among the budget options – for example, the Matador MP93 Nordicca or the Momo W-20 North Pole, which achieved a "satisfactory" rating, albeit with compromises.

• Avoid cheap winter tires that have tested very poorly - with the risk of reducing safety, especially in snow or wet conditions.
• If you are looking for the optimal price-performance ratio, focus on the quality segment, but carefully review the specific model (its strengths/weaknesses).
• If your budget is sufficient, premium winter tires (those rated "good" in the ADAC test) offer the best performance across all criteria.
• When choosing a model, note not only the ADAC rating, but also in which individual criteria (dry, wet, snow, wear) the tested model was strong or weak.
• Remember that the size 225/40 R18 is often used in the lower middle class (e.g. VW Golf, Škoda Octavia, BMW 1, Mercedes A-class), so by choosing a proven model you affect safety, comfort and consumption.