Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Michelin Alpin 7: In the Middle European winter tire arena, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 meets the Michelin Alpin 7. Goodyear’s proven UltraGrip line faces Michelin’s bold new successor to the Alpin 6, setting the stage for a direct battle over snow, ice, wet, and dry performance.
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Results: Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Michelin Alpin 7
Results below were taken from die-reifentester 2025 Winter Tire Test with a total of 8 tires tested including 1 reference all season tire. The graph below shows the comparison between Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Michelin Alpin 7 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 the middle European winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, snow performances was tested. The tire size of interest is 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for Toyota Camry. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Skoda Superb Combi.
Wet
In wet braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops 0.3 meters shorter than the Michelin Alpin 7, which is about 1% better. In wet handling, the Michelin scores higher at 7.7 versus Goodyear’s 7.3, giving it a 2% advantage. For longitudinal aquaplaning, Goodyear clears water at 90.1 km/h compared to Michelin’s 89.5 km/h, a 1% edge. Overall, Goodyear is slightly stronger in braking and aquaplaning, while Michelin holds the advantage in handling.
Alpin 7 :
- -1% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (subjective)
- -1% in longitudinal aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops 0.6 meters shorter than the Michelin Alpin 7, a 2% advantage. In snow handling, Goodyear scores 7.8 against Michelin’s 7.1, giving it a 4% lead. For snow traction, Goodyear delivers 2614 N compared to Michelin’s 2512 N, about 4% stronger. Overall, Goodyear clearly outperforms Michelin across all snow categories, with particularly noticeable gains in handling.
Alpin 7 :
- -2% in snow braking
- -4% in snow handling (subjective)
- -4% in snow traction
Dry
In dry braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops 0.4 meters shorter than the Michelin Alpin 7, about 1% better. In dry handling, Goodyear scores 7.6 compared to Michelin’s 7.3, giving it a 2% edge. Overall, Goodyear shows a small but consistent advantage in dry performance.
Alpin 7 :
- -1% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling (subjective)
NVH
For interior noise, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 rates slightly higher at 8.1 compared to Michelin Alpin 7’s 8, a 1% edge. In ride comfort, both are equal at 8. Overall, Goodyear is marginally quieter, while comfort remains the same.
Alpin 7 :
- -1% in interior noise
- 0% in comfort
Rolling Resistance
The Michelin Alpin 7 shows lower rolling resistance at 6.9 N/kN compared to the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 at 7.3 N/kN, giving Michelin a 6% advantage. Overall, Michelin is more efficient in rolling resistance.
Alpin 7 :
- +6% in rolling resistance
Price
For size 215/55 R17, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 costs €149 while the Michelin Alpin 7 is €178, making the Michelin 19% more expensive.
Tire size: 215/55 R17
- UltraGrip Performance 3 : € 149
- Alpin 7 : € 178
Difference: +19% more expensive for Alpin 7
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
From my perspective as a tire expert, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stands out with stronger snow performance, slightly better wet and dry braking, and lower rolling resistance, making it the more balanced and efficient choice. The Michelin Alpin 7, however, counters with superior wet handling and rolling resistance, offering drivers a confident and composed feel in challenging winter conditions.
Dr Edwin Pang