The Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus ranks as the best all-season tire for Audi vehicles, delivering test-leading dry and wet performance with impressive light snow capability[1]. The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 offers nearly identical high-performance grip with category-best snow traction for drivers prioritizing winter capability[1]. Both tires receive consistent praise from Audi A4, Q5, and Arteon owners for their handling, ride quality, and durability[2].
All-season tires provide year-round versatility without seasonal swapping, making them the practical choice for most Audi owners. The ultra-high-performance all-season (UHPAS) category specifically targets drivers seeking maximum grip while maintaining four-season usability[1]. Modern UHPAS tires have evolved dramatically in light snow capability, closing much of the gap with dedicated winter tires in mild winter conditions.
Audi's quattro system amplifies tire performance by distributing torque efficiently, but the tires themselves determine ultimate grip levels. Owners running Continental DWS06+ or Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 on various Audis and VWs report excellent satisfaction with ride quality, handling, NVH characteristics, and durability[2].
| Tire | Price Range | Dry Grip | Wet Grip | Snow Grip | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06+ | $160–$280 | Best-in-class | Best-in-class | Excellent | Excellent | Overall best |
| Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 | $170–$310 | Excellent | Excellent | Best-in-class | Good | Snow-focused performance |
| Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus | $180–$300 | Excellent | Very Good | Good | Excellent (PNCS) | Luxury sedans |
| Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ | $150–$260 | Very Good | Good | Excellent | Very Good | Sporty handling feel |
| Vredestein Hypertrac All Season | $140–$240 | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Best-in-class | Comfort priority |
Prices vary by tire size; ranges shown for common Audi fitments[3]
The ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus led Tire Rack testing in dry average lap times, wet average lap times, and 50-0 mph braking distances across all conditions[1]. The tire features Continental's SPORTPLUS+ Technology with performance-tuned all-season compound and an asymmetric tread design that delivers skillful handling and high-speed capability[3].
Key Specifications:
Consumer ratings reflect exceptional satisfaction: 9.1 out of 10 for dry traction, 8.9 for wet traction, and 7.6 for snow performance[3]. The DWS indicator system—molded letters that wear away as tread depth decreases—alerts drivers when the tire transitions from all-condition capability to dry-only performance[3].
An Audi S6 owner noted the DWS06+ provides sure-footed confidence in dry, deep snow, highway, and rain conditions[3]. Trade-offs include road noise that some owners describe as louder than expected for a premium tire, particularly on smooth asphalt[3].
Audi owners consistently recommend this tire alongside the Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 as the best all-season options available[2]. The DWS06+ performs slightly better in rain and snow, while the Michelin edges ahead in dry handling[2].
The Pilot Sport All Season 4 led every objective metric in light snow testing and tied for the highest subjective score from test drivers[1]. Michelin's advanced compound formulation maintains grip and responsiveness throughout the year while remaining flexible in colder temperatures[4].
Key Specifications:
The directional tread pattern channels water quickly, reducing hydroplaning risk and enhancing wet-weather performance[4]. Michelin's Flex-Ice technology allows the compound to remain pliable below 45°F, providing better grip during cooler conditions than standard all-season compounds[4].
During comprehensive testing, the Pilot Sport AS4 outperformed every all-weather tire in dry and wet conditions, though it suffered wheelspin in deeper snow due to its performance-oriented tread design[5]. This tire excels in regions with mild winters and occasional light snow rather than heavy winter conditions.
Audi Q5 owners praise the Pilot Sport All Season 4 for exceptional wet performance and impressive dry grip[2]. If you're comparing tire types for your Audi Q5, this remains the enthusiast's choice for spirited driving with year-round capability.
The P Zero All Season Plus stands out for Audi sedan owners prioritizing cabin refinement. Pirelli's PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology significantly reduces road noise, making the tire barely audible even on rough asphalt[6].
Testing confirmed excellent dry grip, sure-footed wet traction, and surprisingly strong performance in light snow[6]. The tread wears evenly, and fuel efficiency improves noticeably compared to other ultra-high-performance all-season options[6].
For Audi A6 and A8 owners who value quiet operation alongside performance, the P Zero All Season Plus delivers luxury-appropriate NVH characteristics without sacrificing grip.
The Potenza RE980AS+ earned the highest subjective handling score in Tire Rack testing thanks to crisp steering that provides quick, precise response to inputs[1]. Bridgestone's updated compound—denoted by the "+" designation—delivers significant improvement in light snow traction compared to its predecessor while maintaining the sporty handling character[1].
Key Specifications:
The steering feels solid on-center with alertness and precision that enthusiast drivers appreciate[1]. Trade-offs include wet traction that trails category leaders and slightly lower outright grip levels than the Continental and Michelin options[1].
For Audi S-line and performance-oriented drivers who prioritize steering feedback over maximum wet grip, the Potenza RE980AS+ offers engaging handling characteristics at a more accessible price point than competitors.
The Hypertrac All Season delivered test-leading ride quality in Tire Rack evaluation, with composed, cushioned comfort that exceeded even premium competitors[1]. The updated compound—available in tires manufactured week 27 of 2021 or later—improved wet and snow traction significantly[1].
Lateral traction led the test group in skidpad testing, and wet grip places solidly mid-pack among these top-tier competitors[1]. The tire's balance leans toward slight, controllable oversteer, which serves as a useful cornering tool in snow by helping eliminate frustrating understeer[1].
For Audi owners with long commutes who prioritize comfort over maximum performance, the Hypertrac All Season offers surprisingly good ride and noise characteristics at a lower price than category leaders.
Testing confirms that dedicated summer and winter tires still outperform even the best all-season options in their respective conditions[5]. The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 outperformed every all-weather tire in dry and wet testing, but a dedicated summer tire maintains an edge[5]. Similarly, winter tires offer significantly better grip on ice and packed snow.
For Audi owners in moderate climates who cannot easily store and swap seasonal tires, premium all-season options provide an excellent year-round compromise. Those in harsh winter regions should consider dedicated snow tires for Audi or all-weather tires with 3PMSF certification.
| Audi Model | Common All-Season Size | Performance Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| A3/S3 | 225/40R18 or 235/35R19 | DWS06+ or Pilot Sport AS4 |
| A4/S4 | 245/40R18 or 255/35R19 | DWS06+ for wet priority |
| A6/S6 | 245/45R18 or 255/40R19 | P Zero AS Plus for comfort |
| Q5/SQ5 | 235/55R19 or 255/45R20 | DWS06+ or Alenza AS Ultra |
| Q7 | 255/55R19 or 285/45R21 | Alenza AS Ultra for SUV optimization |
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