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The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ranks as the best overall tire for Audi performance driving, delivering exceptional dry and wet grip with 99% customer recommendation rates[1]. For year-round versatility, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus leads ultra-high-performance all-season testing with superior wet and snow capability[2]. Audi Original Tires (AO) marked with distinctive sidewall markings are engineered in collaboration with leading manufacturers specifically for Audi vehicles to optimize driving experience[3].
Overview: Why Tire Selection Matters for Audi
Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system amplifies whatever traction the tires provide. Premium tires transform quattro’s torque distribution into confident acceleration, shorter braking distances, and precise cornering. Conversely, budget tires limit the system’s potential regardless of conditions.
Audi works with some of the best tire brands in the business, including Pirelli, Michelin, Goodyear, Continental, and more[4]. Audi Original Tires feature distinctive AO or RO1 sidewall markings indicating they were engineered specifically for Audi vehicles[3]. More than 200 different materials go into making an Audi Original Tire, with optimized tread compounds, steel belt packages, and cord body inserts designed for each model’s specific requirements[3].
Comparison Table by Category
| Category | Best Overall | Runner-Up | Best Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Performance | Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | Continental SportContact 7 | Vredestein Ultrac Vorti |
| All-Season | Continental DWS 06+ | Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 | Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ |
| All-Weather | Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | Michelin CrossClimate2 | Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady |
| Winter | Continental VikingContact 8 | Michelin X-Ice Snow | Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 |
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (Best Summer Tire)
The Pilot Sport 4S is Michelin’s Max Performance Summer tire developed in cooperation with demanding vehicle manufacturers including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche[1]. It was designed for serious drivers looking to maximize the performance potential of their sports cars, performance sedans, and powerful luxury vehicles[1].
Key Specifications:
- Consumer Rating: 9.5/10 Dry, 8.9/10 Wet, 8.7/10 Comfort[1]
- Recommendation Rate: 99%
- Miles Reported: 17 million+
- Treadwear: 8.0/10 (Good)
The asymmetric tread pattern features 24 Hours of Le Mans-derived compounds with a low-void outer shoulder utilizing dry-focused hybrid tread rubber for improved handling[1]. The center ribs and inboard shoulder feature silica-infused wet compound designed to increase wet braking performance[1].
An Audi owner on Ferrari Portofino and Aston Martin Vantage noted the Pilot Sport 4S works much better as a three-season tire than P Zeros and can build tire temperature reasonably quickly even on 45-degree days[1]. Select sizes are available with Michelin Acoustic Technology featuring sound-absorbing foam to reduce cabin noise.
Trade-offs include summer-only capability—tires must not be exposed to temperatures below 20°F to prevent compound cracking[1]. For Audi S-line and RS models seeking maximum warm-weather performance, the Pilot Sport 4S remains the benchmark. If you own an Audi SQ5 or S4, this tire delivers the grip these performance variants deserve.
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus (Best All-Season)
The DWS 06+ led Tire Rack testing in dry average lap times, wet average lap times, and 50-0 mph braking across all conditions[2]. Audi S5 owners consistently recommend this tire alongside the Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 as the two best all-season options available[2].
Key Specifications:
- UTQG Rating: 560 AA A
- Tread Warranty: 50,000 miles
- Speed Rating: W (168 mph)
- DWS Indicator System: Yes
The DWS indicator system features molded letters that wear away as tread depth decreases, alerting drivers when the tire transitions from all-condition capability to dry-only performance[2]. An Audi S6 owner noted the tire provides sure-footed confidence in dry, deep snow, highway, and rain conditions[2].
Audi Club members with 600+ WHP vehicles recommend the Continentals for their excellent tread life and performance across conditions[5]. The flat-spotting issue some owners mention—where tires develop temporary flat spots after sitting several days—typically resolves within 5-10 minutes of driving[5].
The DWS06+ performs slightly better in rain and snow, while the Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 edges ahead in dry handling[2]. For Audi A4 and A6 owners seeking year-round capability without seasonal swapping, this tire offers the best balance. Explore our detailed all-season tire guide for Audi for additional options.
Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive (Best All-Weather)
The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive emerged as the top performer in Car and Driver comprehensive all-weather testing, delivering the best dry performance while earning 3PMSF winter certification[6]. Audi Club members describe it as very quiet, good in wet conditions, and wearing well[7].
Key Strengths:
- Best-in-class dry handling
- Near-leading wet grip
- Lowest price among premium competitors
- Quietest cabin experience
The V-formation directional tread channels water effectively while maintaining dry grip. Ride quality stands out as the Pirelli absorbs road imperfections without transmitting harshness to the cabin[6]. For Audi owners who cannot easily swap seasonal tires and need winter certification for regions like Quebec, the WeatherActive delivers year-round confidence.
See our complete all-weather tire recommendations for Audi for additional 3PMSF-certified options.
Continental VikingContact 8 (Best Winter)
The VikingContact 8 dominated winter tire testing as the most consistent performer across snow, ice, wet conditions while simultaneously achieving the quietest cabin measurements and lowest rolling resistance[8]. Audi dealers recommend this tire for factory winter packages across Q5, A5, and A6 models[9].
Audi Kitchener-Waterloo offers Q5/SQ5 winter packages featuring VikingContact 8 in various sizes on genuine Audi alloy wheels[9]. Complete winter packages range from $2,399 to $4,699 CAD depending on wheel size and model fitment[9].
For maximum ice grip, the Michelin X-Ice Snow leads smooth-ice braking and traction with 40,000-mile warranty coverage. Audi Q5/SQ5 20-inch winter packages featuring Michelin X-Ice Snow in 255/45R20 size cost $4,699 at Audi dealers[9]. Find more options in our winter tire guide for Audi.
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II (Best for Audi SUVs)
For Audi Q5, Q7, and Q8 owners prioritizing daily versatility and comfort, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II sets the bar[10]. Testing revealed excellent dry grip, sure-footed rain performance, and surprisingly strong capability in light snow[10].
Key Features:
- PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology
- Even tread wear for extended life
- Noticeable fuel efficiency improvement
- Excellent highway stability
Pirelli’s PNCS technology works—the tires are barely audible even on rough asphalt[10]. The tread wears evenly, and fuel efficiency improves compared to other SUV all-season options. For Audi Q5 and Q7 owners with long commutes who value cabin refinement, this tire delivers luxury-appropriate NVH characteristics.
Audi Original Tire Features
Audi Original Tires are engineered with specific features optimized for each model[3]:
- Tread area for superior road grip and maximum water displacement
- Zero-degree ply for advanced high-speed capability
- Steel belt package optimized for stability and handling
- Cord body insert for shape retention at high interior pressure
- Side strip to guard against lateral tire and wheel damage
- Butyl liner to prevent pressure loss during normal operation
- Steel bead for firm grip on the wheel
Purchasing through Audi Tire Centers includes Road Hazard Coverage for 24 months or until 2/32″ tread remains—100% coverage the first year and 50% the second year[3]. Factory-trained technicians use equipment calibrated to Audi specifications for mounting, balancing, and alignment[3].
Key Takeaways
- The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S delivers benchmark summer performance with 99% customer satisfaction and 9.5/10 dry traction rating
- The Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06+ wins best all-season with test-leading wet/dry performance and 50,000-mile warranty
- The Continental VikingContact 8 leads winter testing with lowest noise and rolling resistance while excelling on snow and ice
- Audi Original Tires feature AO or RO1 sidewall markings indicating model-specific engineering from premium manufacturers
- Audi Tire Centers provide Road Hazard Coverage for 24 months with factory-trained installation
Frequently Asked Questions
What tires come standard on Audi vehicles?
Audi equips vehicles with Audi Original Tires (AO) from manufacturers including Pirelli, Michelin, Goodyear, and Continental[4]. These tires feature AO or RO1 sidewall markings indicating Audi-specific engineering[3]. Common OEM options include Pirelli P Zero, Continental SportContact, and Michelin Pilot Sport variants depending on model and trim level.
How do I know when my Audi needs new tires?
Tires are worn out when tread depth approaches 2/32 inches[3]. Place a quarter upside down in the tread—if you can see the top of Washington’s head, the tire needs replacing. Most premium tires also include wear indicators (raised bars in the tread grooves) that become visible when replacement is necessary.
Should I use summer or all-season tires on my Audi?
For maximum dry and wet grip on Audi performance models like RS3, RS5, and R8, summer tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S deliver superior handling[1]. For daily drivers in moderate climates, ultra-high-performance all-season tires like the Continental DWS06+ provide year-round capability without seasonal swapping[5].
Are Audi Original Tires worth the extra cost?
Audi Original Tires are engineered specifically for each vehicle’s weight distribution, suspension geometry, and performance characteristics[3]. The Road Hazard Coverage, factory installation, and optimized performance justify the investment for owners prioritizing integrated driving experience. Aftermarket alternatives from the same manufacturers (Michelin, Continental, Pirelli) offer similar performance at potentially lower cost.
References
- Tire Rack. (2025). Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Reviews and Specifications. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/michelin-pilot-sport-4s
- Reddit r/Audi. (2025). Need to get some new all season tires for my Q5.
Need to get some new all season tires for my Q5. Torn between a few choices. Any feedback to share?
byu/CasualDisastering inAudi - Audi USA. (2025). Audi Original Tires. https://www.audiusa.com/en/service/tires/
- Audi Kansas City. (2024). What Type of Tires Should You Put on Your Audi? https://www.audikansascity.com/en/blog/bc-what-type-of-tires-should-you-put-on-your-audi/
- Reddit r/audis5. (2023). Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 OR Continental Extreme DWS06+?
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 OR Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ for 2019 B9 Audi S5 Sportback
byu/Adventurous_Bee_4609 inaudis5 - Car and Driver. (2025). Tested: Best All-Weather Tires for 2025. https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/a64432470/best-all-weather-tires/
- Facebook Audi Club NA. (2025). What are the best tires for Audi cars? https://www.facebook.com/groups/AudiClubNA/posts/10161328853317333/
- Tyre Reviews. (2025). The Best Snow Tyres for 2025. https://www.tyrereviews.com/Tyre-Tests/The-Best-Snow-Tyres-for-2025.htm
- Audi Kitchener-Waterloo. (2025). Winter Tire Packages. https://www.audikw.com/en/parts/winter-tire-packages/
- YouTube. (2025). 5 Best Tires for Audi Q5 2025.
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.
