Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 vs Pirelli Ice Zero FR: In the heart of the Nordic snow segment, a titanic battle unfolds as the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 locks horns with the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. These two winter tire titans, each boasting unparalleled technology and performance, are set to clash in a showdown that promises to redefine the limits of grip, safety, and driving confidence on icy roads.
The Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3, known for its exceptional ice traction and handling, faces off against the Pirelli Ice Zero FR, a masterpiece of winter driving stability and control. This epic confrontation is not just a test of technology but a testament to the relentless pursuit of winter driving excellence. Prepare for an electrifying duel that will set the snow ablaze!
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Results: Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 vs Pirelli Ice Zero FR
Results below were taken from 2023 TESTIRENKAAT Snow/Nordic/Studless Tire Test with a total of 8 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 vs Pirelli Ice Zero FR based on the relevant performance category. The UltraGrip Ice 3 was set as the reference hence at the 100% mark.
The tire size of interest is a 225/45 R17 which is a common tire size for Volvo S60 & BMW 3 Series. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Ice :
In the icy terrains where the mastery of control is paramount, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 and Pirelli Ice Zero FR go head-to-head, demonstrating their prowess under ice conditions. While both tires exhibit commendable performances, subtle differences set them apart, underscoring the critical role of ice as the foremost priority in this segment.
When it comes to ice braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 takes the lead, stopping 1.17 meters shorter than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This shorter stopping distance is crucial, as it can significantly enhance safety on slippery roads. In the realm of ice traction, which measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate on ice, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 again outperforms its counterpart, achieving the acceleration benchmark 0.54 seconds faster than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This faster acceleration underlines the tire’s superior grip and responsiveness on ice.
Furthermore, ice handling, a critical test of how well a tire maneuvers through a course on ice, sees the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 completing a lap nearly 7.33 seconds quicker than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This difference highlights the Goodyear’s agility and control, ensuring a more secure and confident driving experience in icy conditions.
In the battle of ice performances, while both tires offer commendable qualities, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 distinctly leads with its shorter braking distances, quicker acceleration, and faster lap times on ice. These differences not only showcase the technological advancements and design philosophies of each brand but also emphasize the importance of ice performance as the number one priority for drivers navigating the demanding Nordic snow segment.
Ice Zero FR :
- -7% in ice braking
- -8% in ice traction
- -10% in ice handling (lap time)
Snow Performance Analysis:
In the realm of snow performance, where precision and reliability are key, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 and Pirelli Ice Zero FR demonstrate their capabilities, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. As we delve into their performances on snow, it’s evident that the competition is tight, with nuances in their capabilities highlighting the importance of every detail in snowy conditions.
The Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 slightly edges out the Pirelli Ice Zero FR in snow braking, stopping 0.29 meters shorter. This minor difference could be crucial in emergency braking scenarios, where every centimeter counts towards ensuring the vehicle’s safety on snow-covered roads. However, when it comes to snow traction, which measures the tire’s ability to accelerate on snow, the tables turn. The Pirelli Ice Zero FR accelerates marginally faster, taking 0.05 seconds less than the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3. This quicker acceleration indicates a slightly better grip and response from the Pirelli tire in initial snow traction.
Snow handling, a test of the tire’s ability to navigate through a snow-laden course, further showcases the differences between the two. The Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 completes the course 1.91 seconds faster than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This faster lap time signifies better maneuverability and control with the Goodyear tire, contributing to a more confident and secure driving experience in snow.
Overall, while the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 demonstrates superior snow braking and handling, the Pirelli Ice Zero FR shows a slight advantage in snow traction. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs and considerations drivers must make when choosing tires for snow conditions, underlining the importance of balancing braking, traction, and handling according to individual preferences and driving conditions.
Ice Zero FR :
- -3% in snow braking
- +1% in snow traction
- -2% in snow handling (lap time)
Wet Face-off :
In the contest of wet performance between the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 and the Pirelli Ice Zero FR, the intricacies of their design and technology become evident through their handling and braking capabilities under wet conditions. Navigating wet roads efficiently is crucial for safety and confidence, especially in challenging weather.
The Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 shines in wet braking, demonstrating its prowess by stopping 2.57 meters shorter than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This significant difference underscores the Goodyear’s superior ability to maintain traction and control when it matters most, reducing stopping distances and enhancing safety on slippery roads.
When examining wet handling, which tests a tire’s ability to navigate through a course under wet conditions, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 again takes the lead by completing a lap 1 second quicker than the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. This quicker lap time reflects the Goodyear’s enhanced grip and stability, allowing for more precise steering and control in wet conditions.
Ice Zero FR :
- -6% in wet braking
- -2% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry Performance Duel:
In dry conditions, the Pirelli Ice Zero FR slightly outperforms the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3, stopping 0.58 meters shorter from 80 km/h. This showcases the Pirelli’s superior grip and braking efficiency on dry roads, emphasizing its edge in safety and control.
Ice Zero FR :
- +2% in dry braking
Price
The Pirelli Ice Zero FR, priced at €144, is 25% less expensive than the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3, which costs €180 for the size 225/45 R17. This makes the Ice Zero FR a more budget-friendly option.
Tire size: 225/45 R17
- UltraGrip Ice 3 : € 180
- Ice Zero FR : € 144
Difference: -25% more cheaper for Ice Zero FR
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
As a tire expert, my analysis leads me to conclude that the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3 stands out as the clear winner in this comparison, particularly due to its exceptional performance on ice and snow. The Goodyear’s ability to stop shorter on ice, accelerate quicker, and navigate through icy conditions more adeptly positions it as a top choice for winter driving. While both tires show competencies across various conditions, the Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 3’s superior ice and snow performance are what set it apart, ensuring enhanced safety and confidence for drivers facing the challenges of winter roads.
Dr Edwin Pang