Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 vs Bridgestone Blizzak LM005

Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 vs Bridgestone Blizzak LM005: Get ready for a heated battle in the middle European winter segment as two top contenders go head to head. The Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005, both renowned for their remarkable performance on icy and snowy roads, are here to prove their mettle. Launched back in October 2017, the i*cept RS3 has been appreciated for its optimal braking and handling performance, thanks to the latest technologies employed by Hankook.

On the other side of the ring, the Blizzak LM005, a multiple test winner in this segment since its launch in September 2019, boasts exceptional traction and stability in winter conditions, courtesy of Bridgestone’s innovative tread compound and pattern. This fierce competition promises to be a gripping encounter that will help you make the best choice for your winter driving needs. Let’s dive in and find out which tire comes out on top!

Results: Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 vs Bridgestone Blizzak LM005

Results below were taken from 2022/23 Tyre Reviews Winter Tyre Test with a total of 10 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 vs Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 based on the relevant performance category. The Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 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 objective & subjective snow performance was tested. The tire size of interest is a 225/45 R17 which is a common tire size for Volvo S60 & BMW 3 Series. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.

Wet

Wet performance is crucial when it comes to winter tires, especially in middle European countries where rainy conditions are frequent. The ability to brake and handle effectively on wet roads can significantly enhance safety and driving confidence. Let’s take a closer look at how the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 stack up against each other in terms of wet performance:

1. Wet Braking: Braking distance is one of the most critical factors in wet conditions. The Blizzak LM005 excels in this category, stopping at a shorter distance of 27.3 meters compared to the i*cept RS3’s 28.2 meters. The shorter braking distance of the LM005 could make a crucial difference in preventing accidents during sudden stops.
   
2. Wet Handling: In terms of handling on wet roads, both tires perform admirably, with the i*cept RS3 clocking a time of 98.8 seconds and the Blizzak LM005 slightly edging ahead at 97 seconds. These timings indicate that both tires offer good control and responsiveness on wet surfaces, allowing drivers to maneuver with ease.
   
3. Subjective Wet Handling: The subjective wet handling score represents the driver’s overall impression of the tire’s performance on wet roads. Here, the Blizzak LM005 shines with a perfect score of 10/10, indicating excellent wet handling performance from the driver’s perspective. The i*cept RS3, with a score of 8.5, also provides a commendable experience, though not quite on par with its rival.
   
4. Straight Aquaplaning: Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tire and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction. In terms of straight aquaplaning resistance, both tires perform well, with the i*cept RS3 achieving a slightly higher speed of 81.8 Km/H before slipping, compared to the Blizzak LM005’s 80 Km/H.

In summary, both tires offer solid wet performance, making them suitable for middle European countries where rainy conditions are common. However, the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 has a slight edge in wet braking and subjective wet handling, making it a formidable contender in the winter tire segment.

Blizzak LM005:

• +3% in wet braking
• +2% in wet handling (lap time)
• +7.5% in wet handling (subjective)
• -2% in straight aquaplaning

Snow

Alongside wet braking, snow braking is indeed a top requirement for winter tires in middle European countries. In snowy conditions, effective braking and traction become essential for safe driving. Here, we’ll delve into the snow performance of the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 and explore the differences in their braking and handling results.

1. Snow Braking: Braking distances on snow-covered roads can greatly affect driving safety. In this category, the Blizzak LM005 shows superior performance with a braking distance of 27.2 meters compared to the i*cept RS3’s 29.4 meters. The difference, although small, is significant in emergency situations and could make a vital difference in avoiding collisions.
   
2. Snow Traction: Snow traction is measured by the acceleration time from 5 to 40 km/h on snow-covered surfaces. Here, the i*cept RS3 holds a slight advantage with an acceleration time of 4.9 seconds, compared to the Blizzak LM005’s 5.1 seconds. This indicates that the i*cept RS3 offers better traction on snow, allowing for quicker acceleration.
   
3. Snow Handling: In terms of handling on snow-covered roads, both tires perform commendably, with the i*cept RS3 clocking a lap time of 113.6 seconds and the Blizzak LM005 slightly lagging at 116.2 seconds. These timings indicate that both tires provide stable and controllable handling on snowy roads, though the i*cept RS3 has a slight edge.
   
4. Subjective Snow Handling: The subjective snow handling score reflects the driver’s overall impression of the tire’s performance on snow. In this category, the i*cept RS3 excels with a perfect score of 10/10, indicating exceptional snow handling performance from the driver’s perspective. The Blizzak LM005 is close behind with a score of 9/10, showcasing impressive snow handling capabilities as well.

We were surprised to see such significant differences in the braking and handling results of these two tires on snow-covered surfaces. The distinctive pattern features of each tire could have played a role in these results. The unique tread designs and innovative rubber compounds used by both manufacturers have a considerable impact on snow performance, influencing factors such as braking, traction, and handling.

In conclusion, both the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 offer reliable snow performance, essential for middle European winter conditions. However, they excel in different areas, with the i*cept RS3 shining in traction and handling, and the Blizzak LM005 performing better in snow braking.

Blizzak LM005:

• +8% in snow braking
• -4% in snow traction
• -2% in snow handling (lap time)
• -5% in snow handling (subjective)

Dry

Dry performance is an often overlooked but essential factor to consider when choosing winter tires. Despite the focus on wet and snowy conditions, dry roads are equally common in middle European winters. Let’s compare the dry performances of the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005.

1. Dry Braking: Braking distance on dry surfaces can make a significant difference in driving safety. In this category, the i*cept RS3 performs better with a braking distance of 37.8 meters, compared to the Blizzak LM005’s 39.4 meters. The shorter braking distance of the i*cept RS3 provides an advantage in emergency situations.
   
2. Dry Handling: In terms of handling on dry roads, both tires exhibit commendable performance, with the Blizzak LM005 slightly edging out the i*cept RS3. The Blizzak LM005 clocks a lap time of 79.8 seconds, compared to the i*cept RS3’s 80.3 seconds. These timings indicate that both tires offer stable and responsive handling on dry surfaces, with the Blizzak LM005 taking a slight lead.
   
3. Subjective Dry Handling: The subjective dry handling score reflects the driver’s overall impression of the tire’s performance on dry roads. In this category, the Blizzak LM005 outperforms the i*cept RS3 with a score of 9/10, compared to the i*cept RS3’s 8.5/10. These scores indicate that both tires provide a good driving experience on dry roads, with the Blizzak LM005 offering a slightly more satisfying performance from the driver’s perspective.

In conclusion, both the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 deliver solid dry performance, crucial for middle European winter driving conditions. While the i*cept RS3 excels in dry braking, the Blizzak LM005 takes the lead in dry handling and subjective handling performance. Choosing between these two winter tires ultimately comes down to the specific driving needs and priorities of the user.

Blizzak LM005:

• -4% in dry braking
• +1% in dry handling (lap time)
• +2.5% in dry handling (subjective)

Mileage

Mileage performance is a critical factor to consider when evaluating winter tires, as it can significantly impact the long-term value and overall cost of ownership. Let’s take a look at how the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 compare in this aspect based on the data retrieved from the “2022 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test.”

1. Hankook Winter i*cept RS3: The i*cept RS3 showcases a strong mileage performance with a total of 49,709 km. This impressive figure indicates that the tire provides good longevity and durability, making it a reliable choice for drivers looking for long-lasting winter tires.
   
2. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005: The Blizzak LM005 slightly outperforms its competitor in this category, boasting a total mileage of 50,548 km. The higher mileage figure indicates that the Blizzak LM005 offers slightly better durability and long-term value compared to the i*cept RS3.

Both tires were really close in terms of mileage performance, with only a small difference between them. This means that drivers can expect similar longevity and value from both options, making it hard to distinguish them in this category. However, it’s important to note that both tires were still significantly off the top tire in the test, the Kumho WinterCraft WP52, which achieved an impressive 67,131 km. This remarkable figure indicates that the WinterCraft WP52 offers superior longevity and value compared to both the i*cept RS3 and the Blizzak LM005.

In conclusion, while the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 offer commendable mileage performance, neither tire can match the exceptional longevity of the Kumho WinterCraft WP52. Drivers looking for the best long-term value may want to consider the WinterCraft WP52 as an alternative option.

Blizzak LM005:

• +2% in mileage

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance (RR) has become an increasingly important factor in tire selection, especially with the growing focus on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Lower rolling resistance means that the tires require less energy to roll, leading to increased fuel efficiency and decreased CO2 emissions. With that in mind, let’s compare the rolling resistance of the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005.

1. Hankook Winter i*cept RS3: The i*cept RS3 has a rolling resistance of 8.8 kg/t, indicating a relatively good performance in terms of energy efficiency. A lower rolling resistance figure is generally preferred, as it means the tire requires less energy to move, leading to better fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
   
2. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005: The Blizzak LM005 performs slightly better in this category, boasting a rolling resistance of 8 kg/t. This lower figure indicates that the Blizzak LM005 is more energy-efficient compared to the i*cept RS3, contributing to increased fuel savings and decreased carbon emissions.

In conclusion, both tires offer commendable rolling resistance performance, contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. However, the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 has a slight edge in this category with its lower rolling resistance figure. As the topic of sustainability becomes more prevalent, paying attention to rolling resistance is crucial for environmentally-conscious drivers looking to minimize their carbon footprint. The Blizzak LM005’s better RR performance makes it a more appealing choice for those prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability.

Blizzak LM005:

• +10% in rolling resistance

Comfort & Noise

Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) are important considerations when choosing winter tires, as they can significantly impact the overall driving experience. Comfort and noise levels are crucial components of NVH performance, affecting driver satisfaction and the perception of tire quality. Let’s compare the NVH performances of the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005.

1. Subjective Comfort: Comfort scores reflect the overall ride quality and smoothness of the tire, taking into account factors such as vibration and harshness. In this category, the Blizzak LM005 outperforms the i*cept RS3 with a perfect score of 10/10, indicating an exceptionally comfortable ride. The i*cept RS3 also offers a commendable driving experience, scoring 9/10, but falls slightly short of its competitor.
   
2. Noise: Tire noise can affect the overall driving experience, especially during long journeys or at higher speeds. In terms of noise levels, the Blizzak LM005 holds a slight advantage with a quieter performance of 68.9 dB, compared to the i*cept RS3’s 69.6 dB. The lower noise level of the Blizzak LM005 contributes to a more peaceful and pleasant driving experience.

In conclusion, both the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 offer good NVH performance, enhancing driver satisfaction and ride quality. However, the Blizzak LM005 has a slight edge in both subjective comfort and noise levels, making it a more appealing choice for drivers prioritizing a quiet and comfortable driving experience.

Blizzak LM005:

• +5% in comfort
• +1% in noise (-0.7 dB)

Price

In terms of price, the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 are nearly identical for the tire size 205/55 R16. The i*cept RS3 is priced at £95, while the Blizzak LM005 is slightly more expensive at £96, representing a mere 1% difference. Essentially, there is no significant difference in cost between these two winter tire options.

Tire size: 205/55 R16

Winter i*cept RS3: £ 95

Blizzak LM005: £ 96

Difference: +1% more expensive for Blizzak LM005

Summary

In conclusion, the battle for supremacy in the middle European winter tire segment between the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 has been intense and revealing. Both tires have showcased remarkable performances in different conditions and categories, providing valuable insights into their strengths and trade-offs.

In terms of wet performance, the Blizzak LM005 took the lead with better wet braking and subjective wet handling scores, though both tires were closely matched in wet handling and straight aquaplaning. For snowy conditions, the i*cept RS3 had an edge in snow traction and handling, while the Blizzak LM005 performed better in snow braking. When it came to dry performance, the i*cept RS3 stood out in dry braking, while the Blizzak LM005 edged ahead in dry handling and subjective dry handling. In terms of rolling resistance, the Blizzak LM005 had a slight advantage, indicating better energy efficiency and environmental friendliness.

For mileage performance, both tires were closely matched, offering good longevity and value. However, neither could match the exceptional mileage of the Kumho WinterCraft WP52. When it comes to NVH performance, the Blizzak LM005 had a slight edge in both subjective comfort and noise levels. Price-wise, there is virtually no difference between these two winter tires, with the Blizzak LM005 being only 1% more expensive than the i*cept RS3.

Ultimately, choosing between the Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 and the Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 will depend on the specific driving needs and priorities of the user. Both tires offer commendable performance across different categories, making them reliable and versatile options for winter driving in middle European countries.