As winter approaches, the search for the perfect tire to keep you safe and steady on icy roads is no small feat. If you’re eyeing the Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra, you’re probably wondering if it’s truly up to the task of navigating snowy streets and frozen highways.
The Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra is generally on par with leading competitors in winter tire performance, offering reliable snow and ice traction. It excels in light snow conditions but faces tougher competition when dealing with ice.
In this article, we delve into the Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra’s capabilities, exploring its performance across various winter conditions, comfort levels, and how it stacks up against other top-tier winter tires in its class.
Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
8.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
8.7 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.5 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.7 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.3
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.7
Ice Grip: 8.7
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.3 of 10
The Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra is a dedicated winter/snow tire crafted to tackle the harsh conditions of cold, snowy, and icy roads. This tire is specifically designed for sedans, SUVs, and minivans, offering drivers a confident winter driving experience. Goodyear has focused on combining safety, control, and comfort, making the WinterCommand Ultra a strong candidate in its class.
One of the tire’s standout features is its excellent performance in snowy conditions. With a winter/snow rating of 8.9, it provides exceptional traction in light and moderate snow, evidenced by a light snow traction rating of 9.3. Its ice traction, rated at 8.7, also ensures good stability and braking on icy roads, making it a reliable option for most winter scenarios.
In wet conditions, the WinterCommand Ultra scores well, with a rating of 8.9 for both hydroplaning resistance and wet traction. This means drivers can expect a secure and responsive handling experience during rainy or slushy conditions. Dry performance is equally competent, offering solid corner stability and steering response, with a dry rating of 8.7.
Comfort is another strong point for this tire, scoring 8.5 in overall comfort. It is engineered to minimize road noise, making for a quieter ride, and provides good ride quality, rated at 8.7. As for durability, the treadwear is noted at 8.4, indicating that the tire is built to last and maintain its performance over time.
COMPARISON WITH LEADING COMPETITORS
- Wet Performance: On par with leading competitors, ensuring driver confidence in rainy and slushy conditions.
- Dry Performance: Offers reliable performance that competes closely with other top winter tires, providing safe and predictable handling.
- Winter Performance: Stands out in light snow traction; however, deep snow and ice traction, while good, do not lead the category but are still competitive.
- Comfort and Noise: Ranks well in terms of a quieter and smoother ride, comparable to many peers in its category.
- Treadwear: Shows durability and even wear, aligning with what drivers expect from a quality winter tire.
PROS
- Excellent traction in light and moderate snow
- Strong wet and dry performance
- High comfort levels with minimal noise
- Durable tread design
CONS
- Deep snow and ice performance, although good, may not match the top specialty winter tires
BOTTOMLINE
The Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra is an excellent option for those seeking a tire that provides a secure and comfortable driving experience in various winter conditions. It combines effective snow and ice handling with the versatility to perform reliably in wet and dry conditions. While it may not be the single best tire for extreme winter conditions, its overall balance of features makes it a valuable choice for the typical winter driver. Whether navigating a snowy commute or heading out on a winter road trip, the WinterCommand Ultra offers a blend of safety, durability, and comfort that is hard to beat.
Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra Problems
Despite the Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra’s commendable performance in winter conditions, some users have reported issues that may affect its appeal. It’s crucial for potential buyers to be aware of these aspects to make an informed choice tailored to their needs.
Road Noise and Comfort
Increased Road Noise: A notable number of users have observed that the WinterCommand Ultra can be noisier on highways compared to other winter tires. This could be attributed to the tread pattern designed to optimize snow and ice traction.
Ride Comfort: Although the tire generally offers good ride quality across various winter surfaces, some drivers find the ride somewhat stiffer than expected. This stiffness might be more pronounced on very rough or uneven road surfaces.
Tread Wear and Longevity
Varied Tread Life: Feedback on tread life is mixed, with some users experiencing quicker wear than anticipated. This discrepancy in tread life may be influenced by factors such as aggressive driving habits, vehicle alignment, or not strictly using the tires seasonally.
Warranty Coverage: There are occasional concerns about the warranty coverage not fully matching the real-world longevity of the tires. This has led to some dissatisfaction among drivers who had higher expectations based on their driving conditions.
Winter Performance Limitations
Ice Traction: While the tire is adept in handling light and deep snow, its performance on ice, although generally good, may not meet the standards of some dedicated ice tires. Those in particularly icy regions might consider this before making a purchase.
Comparison to Alternatives
Performance Against High-End Competitors: The WinterCommand Ultra holds its own in terms of snow traction but may fall short in ice handling and road noise compared to some of the leading competitors. For drivers who prioritize a quieter ride or superior ice performance, exploring other options could be beneficial.
It’s important to note that user experiences can vary widely based on vehicle type, driving style, and the specific winter conditions encountered. While the Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra offers robust winter capabilities, understanding its potential limitations helps ensure it aligns with specific driving preferences and conditions.
Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra Alternatives
When the winter roads call for more than just good intentions, the Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra steps up with its commendable performance. Yet, there are those who might be searching for different flavors of winter tire excellence. Here’s a look at three noteworthy competitors that bring their own strengths to cold, slippery roads.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Overall Rating: A stalwart in the realm of winter tires, offering robust performance in severe snowy and icy conditions.
- Winter Traction: Superior to the WinterCommand Ultra, especially in deep snow and ice where it scores higher. With a winter/snow rating of 9.2, it’s designed to provide exceptional grip.
- Comfort and Noise: While it performs admirably in harsh conditions, it might deliver a ride that’s a touch firmer, rated slightly lower in overall comfort compared to the WinterCommand Ultra.
- Wet and Dry Handling: Offers strong performance in wet conditions, comparable to the WinterCommand Ultra, but with slightly better dry handling due to higher corner stability.
Michelin X-Ice Snow
Overall Rating: Known for its durability and excellent ice handling, making it a prime candidate for icy weather driving.
- Winter Performance: Very close to the WinterCommand Ultra in light snow traction but offers a slight edge in ice performance, making it a solid choice for icy roads.
- Comfort and Noise: This tire shines in the comfort department, rated higher than the WinterCommand Ultra, ensuring a smoother and quieter ride.
- Treadwear: Comparable durability, which means it can handle multiple winter seasons with ease.
Continental VikingContact 7
Overall Rating: Balances winter performance with enhanced driving comfort, suitable for a wide range of winter conditions.
- Winter Traction: Performs well in light snow but falls slightly short in ice traction compared to the WinterCommand Ultra. It’s a good all-rounder for moderate winter climates.
- Comfort and Noise: Scores high in comfort, likely providing a more agreeable ride in terms of noise and overall ride quality.
- Wet and Dry Handling: On par with the WinterCommand Ultra, offering reliable performance across wet and dry conditions.
Each of these alternatives excels in specific areas while offering a slightly different blend of winter driving capabilities. Whether your priority lies in conquering deep snowbanks, gliding over ice, or just a whisper-quiet ride through a winter wonderland, there’s a tire here to meet your needs. The choice hinges on what kind of winter challenges you face and the qualities you value most in a winter tire.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
Final Thoughts
The Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra presents a solid choice for drivers seeking dependable winter performance without breaking the bank. Its strengths include excellent traction in light and moderate snow, as well as commendable handling in both wet and dry conditions. The tire is particularly noted for its ability to provide a comfortable and quieter ride, which is a significant plus for those long winter commutes.
However, it’s not without its limitations. While it performs admirably in light snow, its capabilities in deep snow and on ice may not satisfy those in more severe climates. Additionally, some users have reported concerns about tread life, especially under heavy use. These factors make it a great candidate for moderate winter environments but perhaps not the go-to for the most extreme conditions.
When compared to the leaders in the winter tire market, the WinterCommand Ultra holds its own in many respects but does not consistently outshine the top performers in every category. It offers a well-rounded package that balances performance, comfort, and cost, making it a competitive option for many drivers.
Good luck and happy motoring.
