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The best Ultra-High Performance (UHP) all-season tires for Audi in 2025 are the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4, delivering benchmark dry handling with exceptional steering response that S and RS owners demand, and the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus, offering 9% better wet braking and superior light snow traction for balanced year-round performance. However, critical warning: standard all-season tires become dangerous below 45°F (7°C) when their compounds harden dramatically—even with Quattro AWD, they cannot provide safe braking or turning on snow and ice, making all-weather tires with 3PMSF certification like the Michelin CrossClimate 2 essential for true winter safety.
Best UHP All-Season Tires for Audi
Ultra-High Performance all-season tires represent the pinnacle of year-round tire technology, engineered specifically for drivers who refuse to compromise their vehicle’s dynamic capabilities while gaining practical all-season versatility.
#1. Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 – The Benchmark

The Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 stands as the undisputed benchmark in the UHP all-season category, with 509 verified customer reviews averaging 8.7/10 for overall performance[1]. This tire consistently earns 9-10 scores for dry traction, with drivers particularly praising its precise steering response that maintains the connected feel Audi S4 and S5 owners expect from their performance sedans. The extreme silica and functional polymer tread compound adapts to temperature variations while maintaining the mechanical grip necessary for spirited driving.
Exceptional Handling and Grip Performance
Testing reveals the Pilot Sport All-Season 4 delivers outstanding dry traction with lateral grip approaching summer tire levels[1]. The asymmetric tread pattern dedicates the outboard shoulder to dry handling, featuring large tread blocks that resist deformation during hard cornering. The inboard portion manages water evacuation through circumferential grooves, though this design creates some compromises. Real-world testing shows the tire maintains composure at speeds up to 130 mph, well within the operating envelope of performance Audis.
Sporty Feel During Cornering
The tire’s standout characteristic remains its exceptional steering speed and feel that sets it apart from typical all-season offerings. Turn-in response proves immediate and linear, communicating road surface changes through the steering wheel without excessive harshness. This directness particularly benefits Audi’s Quattro system, allowing drivers to place the vehicle precisely through corners. However, at the limit, the tire gives up some information compared to dedicated summer performance tires, exhibiting mild understeer characteristics typical of all-season designs.
Tread Life and Ride Considerations
Despite its performance focus, the Pilot Sport All-Season 4 carries a 45,000-mile treadwear warranty, though real-world reports suggest 25,000-35,000 miles proves more realistic for aggressive drivers[1]. The firm sidewall construction that enables precise handling creates a noticeably stiffer ride compared to touring all-seasons, transmitting more road imperfections into the cabin. Road noise measures moderate at 70-72 dBA on smooth surfaces, increasing on coarse pavement. This trade-off proves acceptable for drivers prioritizing performance over comfort.
#2. Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus – Main Competitor

Continental’s latest ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus represents a significant evolution, with internal testing showing 9% improvement in wet braking compared to the already-capable DWS06[2]. The “DWS” designation stands for Dry, Wet, and Snow, accurately describing this tire’s balanced capabilities across varying conditions. The Plus version introduces a new performance-tuned all-season compound that maintains flexibility across a wider temperature range, addressing the original’s tendency to harden in extreme cold.
Excellent Wet and Light Snow Grip
Independent testing at Tire Rack’s facility demonstrated the DWS06 Plus stopping from 50 mph in just 94 feet on wet pavement, trailing the class leader by only 2 feet[3]. The tire’s SportPlus Technology features an advanced silica-enhanced compound that creates mechanical and chemical adhesion on wet surfaces. In light snow conditions up to 2 inches, the tire provides confident traction that surprises drivers accustomed to traditional all-season limitations. The aggressive siping and snow edges bite into packed snow, though deep snow performance remains limited compared to dedicated winter designs.
Quieter and More Comfortable Design
Continental engineers prioritized refinement in the DWS06 Plus, achieving a well-balanced comfort profile suitable for luxury Audi models. The tire rounds over impacts with reasonable compliance, avoiding the harsh impacts common in performance-focused designs. Noise levels remain controlled with well-blended frequencies at medium volume, though some tonal variation occurs on smooth concrete surfaces. This refinement makes the tire particularly suitable for daily driving where comfort matters as much as performance.
Steering Feel Characteristics
While the DWS06 Plus delivers responsive handling, steering feel proves slightly less communicative than the Michelin benchmark. The steering weight feels appropriate but lacks the last degree of precision that distinguishes the Pilot Sport All-Season 4. Turn-in response remains progressive and predictable, making the tire easy to drive quickly without surprises. According to Autvex testing, this characteristic actually suits many drivers who prefer a more relaxed steering response for daily commuting while maintaining capability for spirited weekend drives.
#3. Bridgestone Potenza Sport A/S

The Bridgestone Potenza Sport A/S leverages the company’s ENLITEN technology to optimize the balance between performance and efficiency. This tire targets drivers seeking confident handling across diverse weather conditions without sacrificing fuel economy. The asymmetric tread pattern incorporates full-depth 3D sipes that maintain biting edges throughout the tire’s life, addressing the common all-season weakness of degrading winter performance as tread wears.
ENLITEN Technology Benefits
ENLITEN represents Bridgestone’s holistic approach to tire design, reducing weight by up to 20% while maintaining structural integrity. This weight reduction improves vehicle dynamics, reducing unsprung mass that affects acceleration, braking, and handling. The technology also incorporates a high-silica compound that reduces rolling resistance by approximately 10%, potentially improving fuel economy by 2-3 mpg in highway driving. These efficiency gains prove particularly valuable for Audi Q5 owners seeking to maximize their SUV’s range.
Precise Handling and Stable Cornering
The Potenza Sport A/S delivers precise turn-in response with minimal delay between steering input and vehicle reaction. The reinforced shoulder blocks resist deformation under lateral loads, maintaining consistent contact patches during aggressive cornering. However, road noise increases noticeably above 65 mph, measuring 73-74 dBA on coarse surfaces. This characteristic makes the tire better suited for drivers prioritizing performance over refinement.
#4. Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+

The Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+ emphasizes long-term value with its 50,000-mile treadwear warranty backed by consistent performance throughout its service life. This tire particularly excels in providing a quiet, refined driving experience that complements the premium nature of Audi vehicles. The HS-2 compound maintains flexibility across temperature extremes while resisting the chunking and tearing common in aggressive tread patterns.
HS-2 Compound for Weather Grip
Yokohama’s proprietary HS-2 compound incorporates orange oil and specialized polymers that enhance wet grip without sacrificing tread life. This compound technology maintains consistent performance from 100°F summer heat down to near-freezing temperatures, though performance degrades significantly below 40°F. The micro-silica enhancement creates additional surface area for water adhesion, improving wet braking by approximately 15% compared to previous generation compounds.
Long Tread Life and Low Road Noise
Real-world reports confirm the Advan Sport A/S+ frequently achieves its warranted 50,000 miles with proper maintenance. The symmetric tread pattern promotes even wear across the contact patch, while the optimized pitch sequence minimizes harmonic frequencies that cause road noise. Interior sound levels measure just 68-69 dBA at highway speeds, making this the quietest option in our comparison. This combination of longevity and refinement particularly suits older Audi models where ride quality takes precedence over ultimate performance.
#5. BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S Plus – Budget Option

The BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S Plus delivers remarkable value at approximately $140-160 per tire, roughly 40% less than premium competitors. Despite its budget positioning, this tire leverages technology from parent company Michelin to deliver genuine performance capabilities. Independent testing shows it accelerates faster and stops shorter than many competitors costing significantly more, though with notable compromises in refinement.
Strong Wet Traction Value
The g-Force Comp 2 A/S Plus features an advanced silica tread compound that maintains impressive wet grip throughout its service life. Testing demonstrates wet braking performance within 5-8% of class leaders, remarkable given the price differential. The directional tread pattern efficiently channels water away from the contact patch, reducing hydroplaning risk at highway speeds. This wet weather capability makes the tire particularly suitable for regions with frequent rain but minimal snow.
Highway Noise Considerations
The primary trade-off for the g-Force’s value pricing appears in elevated road noise levels, particularly at highway speeds where sound levels reach 74-75 dBA. The aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent wet traction creates harmonic frequencies that penetrate the cabin. Additionally, while effective in light snow up to 1 inch, the tire offers minimal grip in deeper accumulations, making it unsuitable for regions with regular winter weather. Autvex recommends this tire primarily for budget-conscious drivers in temperate climates.
Critical Warning: All-Season vs All-Weather vs Winter
The distinction between tire categories proves critical for safety, yet marketing terminology creates dangerous confusion that leads to preventable accidents every winter.
Are All-Season Tires Enough for Quattro in Winter
The answer is unequivocally no—standard all-season tires become dangerous in winter conditions regardless of drivetrain configuration. Testing by Consumer Reports demonstrates that all-season tires lose approximately 50% of their grip below 45°F as their compounds progressively harden[4]. This degradation affects all aspects of vehicle dynamics: acceleration, braking, and cornering. Even Audi’s sophisticated Quattro system cannot compensate for the fundamental lack of tire grip, as the system can only distribute available traction, not create it.
M+S vs 3PMSF Symbol Differences
The M+S (Mud and Snow) designation found on most all-season tires represents an outdated standard based solely on tread geometry, requiring only 25% void area with no actual snow testing requirement. In contrast, the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol requires passing standardized testing demonstrating at least 110% traction compared to reference tires on medium-packed snow[5]. This critical distinction means M+S tires may be legally inadequate for winter driving in states requiring snow-rated tires on mountain passes.
All-Season Rubber Compound Below 45°F (7°C)
All-season tire compounds utilize a careful balance of natural and synthetic rubbers optimized for 40-100°F operation. Below 45°F, these compounds begin losing flexibility as polymer chains restrict movement. By 32°F, the rubber becomes increasingly plastic-like, unable to conform to road surface irregularities that provide mechanical grip. This hardening process proves irreversible during each cold cycle, progressively degrading the compound’s ability to recover flexibility when temperatures rise.
AWD vs All-Season Tires in Snow Braking
Physics dictates that all vehicles have four-wheel braking regardless of drivetrain. When braking on snow with all-season tires, a Quattro-equipped Audi stops in virtually the same distance as a front-wheel-drive model—both limited entirely by tire grip. Testing shows vehicles with winter tires stop 30-50% shorter than those with all-seasons at 25 mph on packed snow, a difference that frequently determines collision avoidance. The false confidence Quattro provides during acceleration leads many drivers to maintain inappropriate speeds for their tire’s actual capabilities.
All-Weather Alternative Solutions
For drivers facing occasional winter weather but unwilling to manage seasonal tire changes, all-weather tires provide a crucial safety upgrade over standard all-seasons.
Michelin CrossClimate 2 for Audi
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 represents the gold standard in all-weather technology, earning 3PMSF certification while maintaining 85% of summer tire dry performance. The V-formation directional tread pattern provides exceptional snow traction that approaches dedicated winter tire capability. Testing shows the CrossClimate 2 stops 25% shorter on snow compared to premium all-season tires, while maintaining stable handling characteristics on dry pavement up to 130 mph. The tire costs approximately $200-250 per unit, roughly 15% more than comparable all-seasons.
Bridgestone Weatherpeak Features
Bridgestone’s new Weatherpeak combines the company’s winter tire expertise with all-season versatility. The tire features full-depth 3D siping that maintains snow biting edges throughout its 60,000-mile warranty period. The specialized compound incorporates hydrophilic coating technology from the Blizzak line, improving ice traction beyond typical all-weather designs. Real-world testing confirms confident performance in up to 4 inches of snow while maintaining acceptable dry handling for daily driving.
Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive
The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive earned recognition as a top all-weather performer through its 3-season adaptive compound that adjusts characteristics based on temperature. Below 45°F, the compound softens to maintain flexibility, while specialized polymers prevent excessive wear during summer heat. The directional tread pattern features trumpet-shaped grooves that effectively evacuate water and slush, reducing hydroplaning risk. This tire particularly suits Audi A4 owners seeking year-round capability without extreme winter performance.
Nokian WR G5 Benefits
Finnish manufacturer Nokian pioneered the all-weather category, and their fifth-generation WR G5 demonstrates Arctic-tested expertise. The Dual Performance compound maintains grip from -40°F to 100°F, the widest operating range in the category. The Blade Groove design creates additional edges for snow traction while maintaining highway stability. With Nokian’s heritage in extreme winter conditions, this tire provides confidence for drivers facing unpredictable weather patterns.
Tires with 3PMSF Symbol for Audi
All legitimate all-weather tires carry 3PMSF certification, legally qualifying them for winter use where snow tires are mandatory. Current 3PMSF-certified options for Audi include:
- Michelin CrossClimate 2
- Bridgestone Weatherpeak
- Continental VikingContact 7 (winter-focused)
- Nokian WR G5
- Vredestein Quatrac Pro
- Toyo Celsius II
These tires provide 60-80% of dedicated winter tire snow performance while maintaining year-round usability, making them ideal for moderate winter regions.
UHP vs Other Tire Categories
Understanding tire category distinctions helps match performance characteristics with driving requirements and vehicle capabilities.
UHP (Ultra-High Performance) All-Season Tires Explained
Ultra-High Performance all-season tires prioritize responsive handling and high-speed capability while providing basic all-weather versatility. These tires feature speed ratings of V (149 mph) or higher, with construction optimized for lateral stability and steering precision. The trade-off involves reduced tread life (typically 25,000-45,000 miles) and minimal winter capability compared to touring designs. UHP tires suit performance-oriented vehicles where driving dynamics matter more than maximum longevity.
Grand Touring All-Season Tires
Grand Touring tires emphasize comfort, quietness, and longevity over ultimate performance. These tires typically feature H or V speed ratings with deeper tread depths (10-11/32″) promoting longer wear. The softer sidewall construction improves ride quality but reduces steering precision. Tread patterns prioritize noise reduction through variable pitch sequencing, creating a refined driving experience. These characteristics make Grand Touring tires ideal for luxury sedans where comfort supersedes performance.
UHP vs Touring Tires for Audi A4
For the 2025 Audi A4, the choice between UHP and Touring depends on driving priorities:
UHP Benefits:
- Superior dry handling and steering response
- Better high-speed stability
- Enhanced cornering capability
- Matches A4’s sporty character
Touring Benefits:
- Quieter operation (3-5 dBA reduction)
- Smoother ride quality
- Longer tread life (50,000-70,000 miles)
- Better winter traction
According to Autvex analysis, S-line models benefit from UHP tires that complement their sport suspension, while base models suit touring tires that prioritize comfort.
Best Performance All-Season Tires 2025
The current performance all-season landscape features several standout options beyond our top five:
| Tire Model | Dry Performance | Wet Performance | Tread Life | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin Pilot Sport AS 4 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | $180-250 |
| Continental DWS06 Plus | 8/10 | 10/10 | 8/10 | $160-220 |
| Pirelli P Zero AS Plus 3 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | $170-230 |
| Bridgestone Potenza Sport | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | $150-200 |
| Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate | 8/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | $140-190 |
Model-Specific All-Season Recommendations
Different Audi models benefit from specific tire characteristics based on weight distribution, power delivery, and suspension tuning.
Best All-Season Tires for Audi A4
The A4’s balanced chassis and refined character make the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus in 225/50R17 optimal for most drivers. This sizing provides adequate sidewall height for comfort while maintaining responsive handling. The tire’s balanced wet/dry performance suits the A4’s role as a premium sport sedan. For S-line models with sport suspension, the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 in 245/40R18 better complements the firmer setup with its superior steering response.
Best All-Season Tires for Audi Q5
The Audi Q5’s 4,400-pound curb weight requires robust construction found in the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus in 235/60R18. This tire’s reinforced internal structure handles the Q5’s mass without compromising performance. The excellent wet traction proves particularly valuable for family-oriented SUV drivers prioritizing safety. Alternative sizing in 255/45R20 suits models with the available 20-inch wheel package.
Best All-Season Tires for Audi S4/S5
Performance models demand tires that preserve their dynamic character, making the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 in 255/35R19 the clear choice. This tire maintains the sharp steering response S model drivers expect while providing year-round usability. The firm sidewall construction complements the sport suspension without creating excessive harshness. Real-world testing shows minimal degradation in lap times compared to summer tires when temperatures remain above 50°F.
Best All-Season Tires for Audi Q7
The Q7’s substantial 5,300-pound weight necessitates XL-rated tires like the Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+ in 285/45R20. The tire’s robust construction prevents excessive flexing under load while maintaining acceptable ride quality. The 50,000-mile warranty provides value for high-mileage drivers, while the quiet operation preserves the Q7’s luxury character. For maximum towing capacity, consider the Bridgestone Potenza Sport A/S with its reinforced construction.
Best All-Season Tires for Audi A3
The compact A3 benefits from the BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S Plus in 225/45R17, delivering performance at an accessible price point. This tire provides 85% of premium tire performance at 60% of the cost, ideal for younger buyers. The strong wet traction suits variable weather conditions, though winter capability remains limited. For those prioritizing refinement, the Continental DWS06 Plus offers superior comfort at moderate price premium.
Alternative UHP Options
Beyond the mainstream choices, several alternative UHP all-season tires deserve consideration for specific requirements.
Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus 3
The latest P Zero All Season Plus 3 incorporates Pirelli’s Formula 1-derived compound technology adapted for street use. The tire features an asymmetric tread pattern with enlarged outer shoulder blocks for dry cornering grip. The 4-wide longitudinal grooves provide excellent water evacuation, achieving an “A” rating for wet traction on European labels. At approximately $190-240 per tire, it positions between the Michelin and Continental options while offering 85% of their overall capability.
Bridgestone Potenza RE980A/S+
Bridgestone’s previous-generation RE980A/S+ remains available at 30-40% discount compared to the newer Sport A/S. While lacking ENLITEN technology, it delivers solid performance with particular strength in dry handling. The 3D sipe technology maintains winter traction better than many competitors, though overall snow capability remains limited. This tire suits budget-conscious enthusiasts willing to accept slightly older technology for significant savings.
Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate
The Eagle Exhilarate represents Goodyear’s assault on the UHP all-season segment, featuring ActiveGrip Technology that adapts to road conditions. The tire excels in transitional conditions where temperatures fluctuate around freezing, maintaining more consistent performance than competitors. Built-in rim protectors shield expensive wheels from curb damage, valuable for low-profile applications. However, tread life typically falls 20% short of competitors at similar price points.
OEM vs Aftermarket Considerations
Understanding Original Equipment specifications helps maintain vehicle dynamics while potentially saving significant money.
What Are “AO” (Audi Original) Tires
Audi Original (AO) designation indicates tires developed through collaborative engineering between Audi and tire manufacturers. These tires undergo extensive testing at Audi’s Neuburg facility to ensure compatibility with specific model suspension tuning, noise targets, and performance characteristics. Modifications typically include adjusted sidewall stiffness, compound formulations, and tread patterns optimized for Audi’s vehicle dynamics. Testing shows AO tires provide 5-10% improvement in handling precision and 2-3 dBA reduction in road noise compared to standard versions.
Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season AO
The Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season serves as original equipment on various Audi models, particularly the A4 and A6. The AO version features modified compound chemistry that complements Audi’s suspension tuning, providing optimal balance between comfort and handling. The tire includes Pirelli’s Seal Inside technology on select sizes, allowing continued driving after punctures. While carrying a 15-20% price premium over non-AO versions, the tire maintains factory ride and handling characteristics important for lease returns.
Continental ProContact TX
Continental’s ProContact TX appears as standard equipment on many Audi SUVs, optimized for comfort and efficiency rather than performance. The tire features Continental’s EcoPlus Technology, reducing rolling resistance by 8% compared to previous generations. This efficiency focus makes it particularly suitable for maximizing electric vehicle range. However, enthusiasts typically find the ProContact TX lacks the dynamic capability expected from Audi vehicles.
Do I Have to Buy Audi Original Tires
No, AO designation remains entirely optional for replacement tires. Non-AO tires from reputable manufacturers perform excellently without the premium pricing. The primary considerations involve maintaining proper load rating, speed rating, and overall diameter to preserve speedometer accuracy and vehicle dynamics. Warranty coverage continues regardless of tire choice, provided specifications match OEM requirements. Autvex recommends considering AO tires only when maintaining exact factory characteristics matters for resale or lease return.
Performance and Comfort Factors
Balancing performance with daily livability requires understanding the trade-offs inherent in tire design.
Quietest All-Season Tires for Audi
For drivers prioritizing refinement, the Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+ delivers the quietest operation at 68-69 dBA, utilizing variable pitch technology to disrupt harmonic frequencies. The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus follows closely at 70 dBA through its ComfortRide technology. Road noise correlates strongly with tread pattern aggressiveness—tires with larger tread blocks and fewer sipes generate less noise but sacrifice winter traction. Consider sound-deadening modifications if road noise proves problematic with performance-focused tires.
Best UHP All-Season Tire for Audi S-Model
S-model drivers require tires that preserve their vehicle’s sporting intent, making the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 the definitive choice. The tire’s exceptional steering response and high-speed stability complement the S-model’s enhanced performance while providing practical all-season capability. The Y-speed rating (186 mph) provides adequate reserve for track day participation, though dedicated summer tires remain preferable for serious performance driving. The main compromise involves reduced winter capability compared to touring all-seasons.
Quattro in Snow Debate
The persistent overconfidence in Quattro’s capabilities creates dangerous situations that proper understanding prevents.
Do I Need Winter Tires If I Have Quattro
Absolutely yes—Quattro provides zero advantage during braking or turning, the two most critical aspects of winter driving safety. Testing by the Automobile Club of Germany (ADAC) demonstrates that a front-wheel-drive vehicle with winter tires outperforms a Quattro-equipped vehicle with all-seasons in every metric except initial acceleration[6]. The sophisticated torque vectoring capabilities become irrelevant when tires lack fundamental grip. Insurance data shows Quattro-equipped vehicles experience 25% higher claim frequency during first snowfalls, attributed directly to driver overconfidence.
Audi Quattro with All-Season Tires vs Snow Tires
Comparative testing reveals dramatic performance differences:
Stopping from 30 mph on packed snow:
- Quattro with winter tires: 57 feet
- Quattro with all-seasons: 85 feet
- FWD with winter tires: 59 feet
- FWD with all-seasons: 88 feet
These results demonstrate that tire choice matters far more than drivetrain for winter safety. The 30-foot difference between winter and all-season tires frequently determines collision avoidance. Quattro’s advantage appears only during acceleration from stops, where it helps maintain momentum on slippery surfaces. Autvex strongly recommends winter or all-weather tires for any driver encountering snow, regardless of drivetrain configuration.
Key Takeaways
- Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 leads with exceptional dry handling and steering feel at $180-250 per tire
- Continental DWS06 Plus offers 9% better wet braking with superior comfort at $160-220
- Standard all-seasons become dangerous below 45°F as compounds harden dramatically
- All-weather tires with 3PMSF certification provide 60-80% winter capability year-round
- Quattro doesn’t replace proper tires—helps acceleration only, not braking or turning
- AO-designated tires optional, not required for warranty or performance
- Budget option BFGoodrich g-Force delivers 85% performance at 60% premium tire cost
Decision Path / Next Steps
First, assess your actual weather exposure honestly. Count days with temperatures below 45°F and any snow accumulation. If experiencing more than 30 cold days or any regular snow, choose all-weather tires with 3PMSF certification like the Michelin CrossClimate 2. For primarily warm climates with occasional rain, UHP all-seasons provide optimal performance.
Next, determine your driving priorities. Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 if you prioritize steering feel and dry performance for spirited driving. Select the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus for balanced wet/dry capability with superior comfort. Consider the BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S Plus if working within budget constraints.
Verify exact tire specifications using your driver’s door jamb placard or owner’s manual. Check both standard and optional sizes if your Audi has multiple wheel options. Use online tools at TireRack to confirm fitment and read user reviews specific to your model. Compare prices across multiple sources including online retailers, local shops, and Audi dealerships.
Consider complete wheel and tire packages if planning long-term ownership. Dedicated wheels eliminate seasonal mounting costs while preserving your primary wheels. Minus-one sizing (one inch smaller diameter) provides more sidewall cushioning for winter comfort while reducing cost. Budget $1,500-2,500 for quality packages including TPMS sensors.
Schedule installation before weather changes. October through November provides optimal timing before winter demand creates backlogs. Many retailers offer free storage if purchasing early. According to Autvex market analysis, spring purchases during clearance sales save 15-25% for the following season.
Monitor tire pressure monthly as temperature changes affect inflation by 1-2 PSI per 10°F. Rotate every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear, particularly important with Quattro’s full-time AWD that can create uneven wear patterns. Document maintenance for warranty claims and maintain alignment to prevent premature edge wear common in performance tires.
FAQs
What is the best all-season tire for an Audi?
Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 for exceptional dry performance and steering feel; Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus for balanced wet/dry/light snow traction with superior comfort.
What’s the difference between “all-season” and “all-weather” tires?
All-season tires lack winter certification and harden dangerously below 45°F; all-weather tires carry 3PMSF certification for severe snow service with year-round usability.
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 the best?
Yes, for dry handling and steering response as the benchmark UHP all-season, though it offers shorter tread life and firmer ride than some competitors.
Is the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus good for an Audi?
Excellent choice providing balanced wet/dry/light snow performance with better comfort than Michelin but slightly less precise steering feel for spirited driving.
Are all-season tires good enough for an Audi with Quattro in the snow?
No, standard all-season tires become unsafe in winter as compounds harden below 45°F—Quattro cannot overcome lack of tire grip for safe braking/turning.
What is the best all-weather tire for an Audi (like the Michelin CrossClimate 2)?
Michelin CrossClimate 2 leads with 3PMSF certification and 85% summer performance; Bridgestone Weatherpeak offers strong alternative with 60,000-mile warranty.
What are the best all-season tires for an Audi A4?
Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus in 225/50R17 for most drivers; Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 in 245/40R18 for S-line sport models.
What are the best all-season tires for an Audi Q5?
Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus in 235/60R18 for SUV-specific needs; Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+ for maximum comfort and quiet operation.
What is the best UHP all-season tire for an Audi S-model?
Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 definitively maintains sporty character S-models require while providing practical year-round usability with Y-speed rating.
What does “AO” (Audi Original) mean on a tire?
Audi-approved specification with manufacturer collaboration for optimized suspension compatibility, noise reduction, and handling—optional, not required for warranty.
What is the quietest all-season tire for an Audi?
Yokohama Advan Sport A/S+ at 68-69 dBA offers quietest operation; Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus follows closely with excellent comfort characteristics.
References
- Tire Reviews. (2025). Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 Customer Reviews. https://www.tire-reviews.com/Tire/Michelin/Pilot-Sport-All-Season-4.htm
- Continental Tire. (2025). ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus Testing Results. https://continentaltire.com/tires/extremecontact-dws06-plus
- Tire Rack. (2025). Testing the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/testDisplay.jsp?ttid=304
- Consumer Reports. (2025). All-Season vs Winter Tire Testing. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/all-season-winter-testing
- USTMA. (2025). 3PMSF Certification Standards. https://www.ustires.org/3pmsf-certification
- ADAC. (2025). AWD vs Winter Tires Comparison Test. https://www.adac.de/winter-tire-testing

I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.









