Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Vredestein Wintrac Pro: In the battle of middle European winter tires, we have the newly launched Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 (2023) squaring off against the seasoned Vredestein Wintrac Pro, which hit the market in 2018. This is a classic David and Goliath matchup—Goodyear, the giant with a fresh design ready to dominate, versus Vredestein’s underdog, a tire that has consistently delivered strong results over the years. Can the established Wintrac Pro hold its ground, or will Goodyear’s latest creation overpower it in this fierce winter showdown? Buckle up!
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Results: Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Vredestein Wintrac Pro
Results below were taken from 2024 ADAC 17″ winter tire test with a total of 16 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Vredestein Wintrac Pro based on the relevant performance category. The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, the snow & ice performance was tested. The tire size of interest is a 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V & Audi SQ2. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen T-Roc.
Wet
The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 and Vredestein Wintrac Pro deliver close results in wet braking, with the Wintrac Pro holding a slight advantage by stopping 0.2 meters shorter at 35.4 meters, compared to Goodyear’s 35.6 meters. However, Goodyear takes the lead in straight aquaplaning resistance, managing 77.4 km/h, which is 2.7 km/h faster than Vredestein’s 74.7 km/h, making it the stronger performer in water evacuation.
Wintrac Pro :
- +1% in wet braking
- -3% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow performance, both the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 and Vredestein Wintrac Pro are evenly matched in snow braking, stopping at 9.7 meters. However, the Wintrac Pro shows a slight edge in snow traction, pulling with 238 N of force compared to Goodyear’s 234 N. Overall, the Wintrac Pro impresses with its stronger traction in snowy conditions.
Wintrac Pro :
- 0% in snow braking
- +2% in snow traction
Ice
In ice performance, the Vredestein Wintrac Pro outperforms the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, stopping 0.8 meters shorter with a braking distance of 16.8 meters compared to Goodyear’s 17.6 meters. Considering its superior results in both snow and ice, the Wintrac Pro clearly offers better overall winter performance.
Wintrac Pro :
- +5% in ice braking
Mileage & Abrasion
The Achilles’ heel for the Vredestein Wintrac Pro comes in the form of mileage performance. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 significantly outlasts the Wintrac Pro, with a wear lifespan of 57,500 km, a full 16,000 km more than Vredestein’s 41,500 km. In terms of abrasion, Goodyear is also far more durable, with a lower abrasion rate of 55 mg/km/t compared to Vredestein’s 70 mg/km/t, making Goodyear the clear winner in longevity.
Wintrac Pro :
- -28% in mileage
- -21% in abrasion
Dry
In dry performance, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 takes the lead with a shorter braking distance, stopping at 42.9 meters, which is 0.8 meters shorter than the Vredestein Wintrac Pro’s 43.7 meters. This gives Goodyear a slight advantage in dry braking efficiency.
Wintrac Pro :
- -2% in dry braking
Price
The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, positioned in the premium segment, is priced at €169 for a 215/55R17 tire, while the Vredestein Wintrac Pro, known for offering quality at a competitive price, costs €157. This makes the Wintrac Pro 8% cheaper than the Goodyear, providing a more budget-friendly option.
Tire size: 215/55R17
- UltraGrip Performance 3 : € 169
- Wintrac Pro : € 157
Difference: -8% more cheaper for Wintrac Pro
Expert Conclusion
As a tire expert, I’m genuinely surprised by how well the Vredestein Wintrac Pro performs in wet, snow, and ice conditions, consistently matching or even surpassing the Goodyear in key winter metrics. However, Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3 still holds a clear advantage in longevity and dry braking, making it a top choice for those prioritizing wear and durability. Both tires are impressive contenders, but Vredestein offers exceptional winter performance at a more competitive price.
Dr Edwin Pang