Continental VikingContact 8 vs Hankook Winter I cept iZ2: The Continental VikingContact 8, launched in 2024, enters the ring as the next-gen studless Nordic winter tire, following its highly acclaimed predecessor. Meanwhile, the Hankook Winter icept iZ2, launched in 2019, has been a strong contender in the Nordic winter tire segment for years. This clash promises to showcase whether the fresh innovation of the VikingContact 8 can outclass the proven performance of the icept iZ2 in the harshest winter conditions.
Table of Contents
Results: Continental VikingContact 8 vs Hankook Winter I cept iZ2
Results below were taken from 2024 Vi Bilagare Friction Tire Test with a total of 7 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental VikingContact 8 vs Hankook Winter I cept iZ2 based on the relevant performance category. The Continental VikingContact 8 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for subjective dry ratings, 1 point is equivalent to 10%. So if tire A has a 4 point rating & tire B has a 3 point rating, tire A is better than tire B by 10%. The tire size of interest is a 225/45 R17 which is a common tire size for Audi S3 and BMW 1 series. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Ice
Ice performance is critical in the studless winter tire category, as these tires are designed for optimal safety and control on icy roads. The Continental VikingContact 8 significantly outperforms the Hankook Winter icept iZ2 across all key ice metrics. In ice braking, the VikingContact 8 stops 3.71 meters earlier than the icept iZ2, which can make a vital difference in emergency situations. For ice traction, the VikingContact 8 accelerates 2.56 seconds faster than the i*cept iZ2, providing quicker grip on icy surfaces. In ice handling, the VikingContact 8 completes the course 4.7 seconds faster, showcasing superior control and agility. These differences underline the VikingContact 8’s dominance in icy conditions.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- -24% in ice braking
- -23% in ice traction
- -7% in ice handling (lap time)
Snow
The Continental VikingContact 8 and Hankook Winter icept iZ2 are closely matched in snow performance, reflecting the strong capabilities of both tires in these conditions. In snow braking, the VikingContact 8 stops just 0.01 meters earlier than the icept iZ2, an almost negligible difference. For snow traction, the VikingContact 8 accelerates 0.01 seconds faster, showcasing very similar grip. In snow handling, the VikingContact 8 completes the course 1.8 seconds quicker, providing a slight edge in control and responsiveness. While the differences are small, the VikingContact 8 demonstrates a marginal advantage in overall snow performance.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- ~0% in snow braking
- ~0% in snow traction
- -2% in snow handling (lap time)
Wet
In wet performance, the Continental VikingContact 8 and Hankook Winter icept iZ2 show differing strengths. In wet braking, the VikingContact 8 stops 0.26 meters earlier, giving it a slight advantage in stopping power. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, the icept iZ2 outperforms by holding on at 2.6 km/h higher speed, showing better resistance to water buildup. In wet handling, the VikingContact 8 completes the lap 1.3 seconds faster, showcasing superior grip and control through corners. The results highlight the VikingContact 8’s better handling and braking, while the i*cept iZ2 excels in aquaplaning resistance.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- -1% in wet braking
- -3% in wet handling (average lap speed)
- +4% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry performance, the Continental VikingContact 8 holds a clear edge in braking, stopping 1.17 meters earlier than the Hankook Winter i*cept iZ2. This shorter stopping distance can be crucial in avoiding collisions. However, in subjective dry handling, both tires score equally at 4 points, indicating similar levels of steering feedback and overall control. While the VikingContact 8 brakes better, both tires perform evenly in handling on dry roads.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- -4% in dry braking
- 0% in dry handling (subjective)
Noise
In exterior noise performance, the Continental VikingContact 8 and Hankook Winter icept iZ2 are nearly identical. The VikingContact 8 measures 71.8 dB, just 0.1 dB louder than the icept iZ2. This minimal difference is hardly noticeable, making both tires equally quiet on the road.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- ~0% in exterior noise (-0.1 dB)
Fuel Consumption
In fuel consumption, the Continental VikingContact 8 has a slight advantage, using 0.1 liters less per 100 km compared to the Hankook Winter i*cept iZ2. While the difference is small, the VikingContact 8 proves to be marginally more efficient, which can add up over time.
Winter I cept iZ2 :
- -2% in fuel consumption
Price
For the 235/55 R17 size, the Hankook Winter icept iZ2 is significantly cheaper at €205, making it 26% less expensive than the Continental VikingContact 8, which costs €258. This price difference makes the icept iZ2 a more budget-friendly option.
Tire size: 235/55 R17
- VikingContact 8 : € 258
Difference: -26% more cheaper for Winter I cept iZ2
Conclusion
From my perspective as a tire expert, both tires have their strengths. The Hankook Winter i*cept iZ2 stands out for its strong aquaplaning resistance and significantly lower price, making it a solid option for those on a budget. On the other hand, the Continental VikingContact 8 dominates where it matters most for a studless winter tire: superior performance on ice and snow, better dry and wet handling, and slightly improved fuel efficiency. These advantages combine to deliver safer and more confident driving in harsh winter conditions. While both tires perform well, the VikingContact 8 takes the crown in this duel with its all-around excellence.
Dr Edwin Pang