Winter is upon us, and that means it’s time to gear up with the best snow tires. In a market filled with options, we have already explored the top performers like Continental’s TS 870, Michelin Alpin 6, and Bridgestone Blizzak LM005. Now, let’s dive into another premium contender: the Goodyear UltraGrip 9+.
Snow performance is crucial, especially in the relatively mild winters of middle Europe. With temperatures hovering around 0 to 2°C, we need a tire that can handle snow with finesse. In this department, the UltraGrip 9+ truly shines. It outperforms the Alpin 6 in snow braking by a remarkable 5.8%. While there is a slight difference in snow traction and handling, the overall snow performance of the UltraGrip 9+ is unquestionably dominant.
Moving on to wet conditions, where rain is a frequent companion, the UltraGrip 9+ holds a clear advantage. Although there is a minor disparity in wet braking and handling, its prowess in aquaplaning sets it apart.
Now, let’s talk about dry performance. While the Alpin 6 falls behind in wet and snow conditions, it manages to claw back some points in the dry category. It excels in dry braking by 3.8% and dry handling by 0.9%.
When it comes to wear, the Alpin 6 is expected to last for 40,100 km, while the UltraGrip 9+ is estimated to reach 36,600 km. This translates to an 8.7% difference in wear. Keep in mind that tire mileage depends on various factors, so take these results with a grain of salt.
In terms of rolling resistance, both tires have a “C” rating. However, the UltraGrip 9+ proves to be 6.1% better than the Alpin 6 in rolling resistance. This difference can be significant, despite the seemingly similar labels.
External noise is another consideration, and here the Alpin 6 edges out the UltraGrip 9+ by a mere 0.4 dB.
Last but not least, the price. For the 205/55 R16 size, the Alpin 6 is priced at €96, while the UltraGrip 9+ comes in at €80. That’s a 20% cost saving with the UltraGrip 9+.
To sum it up, except for wear, noise, and dry performance, the Goodyear UltraGrip 9+ dominates in all other categories. Its superior snow and wet performances, which are crucial for middle European winters, seal the deal. Our clear recommendation is the UltraGrip 9+!
Source: Original Article
