In Brief
Choosing winter tires purely based on price is risky because it can compromise safety. Tests show that entry‑level tires, especially cheap Chinese models, often have significant shortcomings, particularly on wet or slippery roads. Experts recommend prioritizing performance, longevity, and origin, notably tires made in Europe. Price remains important, but investing in quality tires offers better protection for drivers and their passengers.
When we talk about safety inside our vehicles, we routinely mention seat belts, airbags or driver‑assistance systems, yet we tend to overlook another element that is even more important: the tires, essential for the safety of occupants, if not the most important of all. Yes, tires are the only part of the car in contact with the road. Making a smart choice about them is therefore crucial.
Prioritizing safety over savings
However, according to a study by the Groupement inter Professionnel de l’Automobile (GiPA) conducted for Auto5, 63% of drivers still let price guide their first criterion when choosing new tires. “Purchasing new tires represents a significant investment for drivers. Comparing prices online is therefore a sensible approach. But the right choice starts first with your driving profile: the type of vehicle, how many miles you drive, what kinds of trips you undertake and the conditions you drive in. Beyond price, you must also consider the handling and braking performance, the longevity, and the type of tire best suited for you,” explained Auto5 spokesperson Olivier Renard. And that’s precisely where the snag lies. Not surprisingly, the cheapest tires are rarely among the top performers, as shown by the latest winter-tire tests conducted by Test-Achats. The organization tested 30 winter tires on criteria such as road grip, braking distance, behavior on wet, snowy or icy roads, and the risk of hydroplaning.
Favor tires manufactured in Europe
Result? 20 tires, particularly cheap Chinese tires, failed to deliver satisfactory results and posed risks to drivers’ safety. Test-Achats’ conclusion is clear: do not skimp on your safety. “The results of our tests indicate that cheap tires do not always cling to the road as well as higher‑end models. Some models show significant safety gaps, especially on wet roads. In short: err on the side of caution and invest in high‑performing winter tires, because your safety and that of your passengers depends on it directly. Therefore, lean toward tires made in Europe.” That message is plain. The figures from the Auto5‑commissioned survey show, however, that the message is starting to resonate with the public. The price criterion remains the No. 1 factor but its share is down by nearly 10 percentage points from 2024. A late‑2025 Auto5 survey already pointed in this direction: 65% of drivers said they would be willing to pay more for a pricier tire brand if it offers better safety, driving comfort and longevity. Let’s hope the message sticks.
Comparative Table
| Criterion | Results |
|---|---|
| Drivers guided by price (2024) | 63% |
| Drivers willing to pay more for safer tires (2025) | 65% |
| Tires tested by Test-Achats | 30 models |
| Unsatisfactory tires (cheap/China) | 20 models |
| Price criterion gap observed (2024 vs earlier) | Down by nearly 10% |
Key Takeaways
- Safety heavily depends on the quality of the winter tires you choose.
- Price remains the primary criterion for 63% of drivers, but its influence is waning.
- Cheap tires, particularly Chinese ones, often prove underperforming and risky according to tests.
- 20 out of 30 tested models fail to deliver satisfactory safety results.
- 65% of drivers would pay more to prioritize safety, comfort, and longevity.
- Investing in tires manufactured in Europe is recommended for better reliability.
FAQ
Why shouldn’t you choose your winter tires solely based on price?
Because cheap tires often show inferior performance and greater safety risks, especially on wet or icy roads.
What criteria should you consider when choosing winter tires?
Consider your vehicle type, your driving profile, longevity, handling and braking performance, and favor tires manufactured in Europe.
What do recent tests say about cheap winter tires?
Tests show that the majority of cheap tires, especially those from China, do not provide satisfactory safety and have gaps, particularly on wet roads.
Are drivers willing to invest in quality tires?
A consumer survey indicates that 65% of drivers would pay more for quality in safety, comfort and longevity.
What is the impact of price on tire choice currently?
Price remains important, but its weighting has dropped by nearly 10 percentage points compared with previous years.
