Winter friction tyres of average cost (autumn 2014)

We have previously published our winter tyre ratings, which you should definitely pay attention to:

Five interesting low-cost offers in size 195/65 R15 can be found at this link;

TOP 5 best winter friction tyres in size 205/55 R16 - according to this< / a > ; p> The full catalog of tyres is here.

And now we will talk about friction tyres of the middle price segment. The size is 205/55 R15, but at the same time, each model from our review is presented on the market in other sizes.

Kleber Krisalp HP 205/60 R16 96H

Let's start our review of winter non-studded tyres from a French manufacturer. They have a directional tread pattern with numerous sipes, which should ensure good grip on snowy surfaces. Numerous transverse grooves guarantees effective removal of snow porridge from the contact patch, and longitudinal grooves - better moisture removal. The frost-resistant components of the rubber compound give it elasticity even at very low air temperatures.

The tyre has a relatively low cost, and therefore it is very popular and has already earned certain reviews among car owners. In most cases, there is acceptable behavior on dry roads and normal grip on snowy surfaces. But the performance characteristics in icy areas leave much to be desired. Some users note that at high speeds the car does not hold well on a given trajectory, but with a measured movement of an average urban traffic, tyre grip is sufficient. It is worth remembering that the braking distance on an icy area will also be much longer, so it's ok to keep a large distance.

The tyre has good mileage, but with such driving characteristics, its price may seem slightly overpriced to some users. Recommended for drivers who don't leave cleared city streets too often in winter.

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Price from 3 093 up to 8 277 ₴

Tireshop.ua	3 093 ₴	To Store
Autokush.com.ua	3 130 ₴	To Store
Metrader.com.ua	8 277 ₴	To Store

Compare prices ₃→

Fulda Kristall Montero 3 205/55 R16 91T Price from 3 093 up to 8 277 ₴ →

The third generation of the Fulda Kristall Montero, built at the Goodyear factory in Poland. The model is distinguished by an updated tread, which should provide improved performance.

Designed for operation in mild Central European winters. The latter is confirmed by most tests, according to which the tyre provides good handling and short braking distances on wet and dry pavement. It also performs well in the slashplaning resistance test.

The tread pattern, which has been upgraded for better handling on snowy roads, provides natural rolling and snow compaction, which increases traction on such surfaces. It has good braking properties and traction on snow, but in icy areas it cannot boast of outstanding performance. According to user reviews, when driving fast, the car breaks into drifts and requires frequent course corrections, which do not respond effectively enough. But in fairness, it should be noted that such reviews are quite typical for any non-studded tyres.

Fulda Kristall Montero 3 has good mileage and high driving comfort. This is one of the best deals in its category.

Kumho I`ZEN KW31 205/55 R16 91R

A Korean tyre that has been on the market for three seasons. Its directional tread pattern is very similar to one of the models of the Finnish manufacturer Nokian. In particular, it is precisely because of this feature that the model aroused increased interest after its appearance on the market.

winter surfaces.

It has good performance on snowy or wet surfaces when calmly driven, but high speeds or sharp manoeuvres can be fraught with skids. Characteristics on dry pavement are not bad, but there are slow reactions with sharp turns of the steering wheel. On icy areas at low speeds, handling is within the normal range. The reviews note good mileage and good rolling comfort. So in the middle price range, the tyre can be considered a good choice for urban drivers.

Overall, the Kumho I'ZEN KW31 provides optimal driving performance, without pronounced drawbacks. And although it cannot boast the same performance as the Finnish prototype of its protector (Nokian), it is at least much cheaper.

Toyo Snowprox S943 205/55 R16 91T

The Japanese Toyo SnowProx S943 friction tyre is available in sizes R14 to R17. It has a directional densely siped tread pattern with large blocks on the sides and wide longitudinal grooves. The new rubber compound formulation provides increased wear resistance and improved rolling characteristics. The focus of the development was not on speed characteristics, but on safety indicators.

According to the manufacturer, the tyre was created for mild Central European winters, which is confirmed by most tests and user reviews. Excellent grip on wet roads, provides excellent handling, as well as high safety due to short braking distances. Shows good results on snowy surfaces.

On packed snow, the Toyo SnowProx S943 offers sufficient traction and good handling. In slush, the performance is slightly lower, but at medium speeds everything remains under control. The only place where it is not quite at ease is the icy areas - on them it slides and slips, almost like any other non-studded model.

Users also note a low noise level and good mileage, which means that with the current pricing policy, the tyre can be recommended for most motorists who prefer a measured driving style.

Hankook Winter I*Cept RS W442 205/55 R16 91T

This Korean tyre went on the market in 2011 and gained popularity among drivers in a couple of years. Belongs to the class of arctic friction tyres, created using a rubber compound that includes heat-resistant ingredients. A directional tread pattern should provide good handling, while numerous sipes should provide traction and efficient braking in winter conditions.

Based on tests by leading automotive experts and user feedback, the tyre demonstrates performance at the level of models for mild European winters. . In icy areas, the machine can slip into a slip even at relatively low speeds. But on the snow, both loose and rolled, it is much easier to drive a car. It passes through water-filled areas and dry asphalt without comment, although it does not receive additional points for high performance.

Summing up, we can say that the strengths of the model are traction on snow, rolling resistance, low noise and reasonable price. At the same time, the disadvantages include resistance to slashplaning. The model can be recommended for cities where the amount of snow is relatively low.