If you’re in the market for new tires for your SUV or crossover, you’ve likely come across the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra. Both are top contenders, but how do you know which one is right for you?
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in wet and dry conditions with superior comfort, while the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra offers solid performance but lags slightly in treadwear and winter traction.
In this article, we will compare the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra, exploring their performance in various conditions, comfort levels, durability, and overall value.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Tread Wear
9.0 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.4 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.5 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.3 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.3 of 10
Road Noise: 9.1 of 10
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is designed for SUV and crossover drivers seeking a reliable, all-season tire. Built with advanced materials and innovative technologies, this tire promises excellent handling, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the countryside, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 aims to deliver a smooth, safe ride.
Key Features
- All-Season Performance: Engineered with a special tread compound and design, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 provides solid traction on wet, dry, and light snowy roads. The tread pattern enhances grip and stability, making it a dependable choice throughout the year.
- Comfort and Quietness: Pirelli has integrated noise-canceling technologies into the tire design, reducing road noise for a quieter ride. The tread pattern also helps minimize vibrations, ensuring a comfortable driving experience even on long journeys.
- Durability and Longevity: This tire is built with robust materials that offer high durability and a longer tread life. It comes with a 70,000-mile treadwear warranty, providing peace of mind and excellent value over time.
- Enhanced Wet Performance: With wide circumferential grooves and advanced sipes, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in wet conditions by effectively channeling water away from the tire’s contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
Product Overview
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is your all-season companion for SUVs and crossovers, offering a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and durability. Its ability to handle diverse weather conditions makes it a reliable choice for drivers who need consistent performance throughout the year.
With the Scorpion AS Plus 3, you get a tire that prioritizes safety, longevity, and efficiency. Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or running errands, this tire is designed to meet the demands of your active lifestyle. Enjoy exceptional traction, a smooth and quiet ride, and the durability to keep you on the road longer.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (9.1)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1
- Wet Traction: 9.2
In wet conditions, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a star performer. Its hydroplaning resistance and wet traction keep you steady even when the roads are slick. Imagine it as a pair of high-quality rain boots that grip well and keep you safe.
Dry Performance (9.4)
- Corner Stability: 9.4
- Dry Traction: 9.5
- Steering Response: 9.3
On dry roads, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels. Its corner stability and steering response make driving feel safe and controlled. It’s like driving a car that responds perfectly to your every move, giving you confidence in every turn.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.3)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.7
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.2
- Ice Traction: 7.9
When it comes to winter conditions, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 handles light snow well but struggles a bit more with deep snow and ice. Think of it as wearing decent winter shoes – they work for moderate conditions but aren’t the best for heavy snow or icy roads.
Comfort (9.2)
- Ride Quality: 9.3
- Noise: 9.1
This tire provides a comfortable ride with reduced noise levels. It’s designed to smooth out the bumps and keep things quiet, making your drive more pleasant. It’s like riding in a car equipped with noise-cancelling technology – peaceful and smooth.
Treadwear (9.0)
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 is built to last. With a treadwear rating of 9.0, you can expect these tires to go the distance, offering good value over time.
Pros
- Excellent wet performance
- Superior dry traction and corner stability
- Comfortable ride with minimal noise
Cons
- Mediocre performance in deep snow and on ice
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
7.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.2 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 80,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.0 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.9 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.5 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.4 of 10
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is crafted for SUV and crossover drivers who seek a balance of performance, comfort, and longevity. Designed to handle a variety of driving conditions, this all-season tire promises excellent handling and a smooth, quiet ride. Whether you’re commuting or embarking on a road trip, the Alenza AS Ultra aims to provide a dependable driving experience.
Key Features
- All-Season Traction: Featuring a unique tread compound and design, the Alenza AS Ultra offers reliable traction on wet, dry, and light snowy roads. Its optimized tread pattern enhances grip and stability, making it a versatile choice for year-round driving.
- Comfort and Quiet Ride: Bridgestone has incorporated advanced noise-reducing technologies into the Alenza AS Ultra, minimizing road noise for a quieter ride. The tread design also helps reduce vibrations, ensuring a comfortable drive over long distances.
- Durability and Long Tread Life: Built with high-quality materials, this tire boasts impressive durability and a longer tread life. It comes with an 80,000-mile treadwear warranty, providing excellent value and peace of mind over the long haul.
- Enhanced Wet Performance: The Alenza AS Ultra is designed to excel in wet conditions with its wide circumferential grooves and advanced sipes, which effectively channel water away from the tire’s contact patch to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
Product Overview
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is an all-season tire for SUVs and crossovers, offering a well-rounded mix of performance, comfort, and durability. Its ability to handle various weather conditions makes it a reliable choice for drivers seeking consistent performance throughout the year.
With the Alenza AS Ultra, you get a tire that focuses on safety, longevity, and efficiency. Whether you’re navigating daily commutes or long road trips, this tire is designed to meet the demands of your active lifestyle. Enjoy excellent traction, a smooth and quiet ride, and the durability to keep you on the road longer.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (8.9)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.9
- Wet Traction: 9.0
The Alenza AS Ultra performs well in wet conditions, though slightly below some competitors. Its hydroplaning resistance and wet traction ratings keep you secure on rainy days. Think of it as a reliable raincoat – it keeps you dry and comfortable but isn’t the top performer in extreme downpours.
Dry Performance (9.2)
- Corner Stability: 9.1
- Dry Traction: 9.3
- Steering Response: 9.1
On dry roads, the Alenza AS Ultra shines with solid corner stability and steering response. Driving feels controlled and safe, much like handling a well-tuned vehicle that responds smoothly to your every command.
Winter/Snow Performance (7.9)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.2
- Deep Snow Traction: 7.9
- Ice Traction: 7.5
In winter conditions, the Alenza AS Ultra manages light snow reasonably well but struggles more with deep snow and ice. Picture it as wearing decent winter boots – they’re fine for light snow but aren’t the best choice for heavy snow or icy sidewalks.
Comfort (8.6)
- Ride Quality: 8.7
- Noise: 8.4
This tire offers a comfortable ride with reduced noise levels. Designed to smooth out bumps and keep things quiet, it makes your drive more pleasant. It’s like having a car with excellent sound insulation – peaceful and smooth.
Treadwear (8.2)
The Alenza AS Ultra is built to be durable, though it doesn’t match the top competitors in this category. With a treadwear rating of 8.2, it provides good longevity but falls short of the best in class.
Pros
- Solid wet performance
- Excellent dry traction and corner stability
- Comfortable ride with minimal noise
Cons
- Lower performance in deep snow and on ice
- Treadwear not as impressive as top competitors
Comparative Analysis
When deciding between the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra, it’s important to carefully consider their respective strengths and how they align with your driving needs. Both tires offer impressive all-season performance, but there are some nuances that separate them. Let’s break it down:
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 9.1 | 8.9 |
| Wet Traction | 9.2 | 9.0 |
In wet conditions, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 holds an edge with a 9.2 wet traction rating compared to 9.0 for the Alenza AS Ultra. While both tires offer good hydroplaning resistance, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 provides slightly better wet traction. If maximum wet performance is your top priority, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the better choice.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| Dry Traction | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Steering Response | 9.3 | 9.1 |
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 leads in dry performance metrics. With higher ratings for corner stability, dry traction, and steering response, it offers a more controlled and responsive driving experience on dry roads compared to the Alenza AS Ultra.
Winter Performance
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Light Snow Traction | 8.7 | 8.2 |
| Deep Snow Traction | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| Ice Traction | 7.9 | 7.5 |
In winter conditions, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 outperforms the Alenza AS Ultra with higher ratings across light snow, deep snow, and ice traction. If you often encounter harsh winter weather, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 will likely provide better grip and confidence.
Comfort and Noise
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 9.3 | 8.7 |
| Noise | 9.1 | 8.4 |
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 also excels in comfort and noise levels. With a higher ride quality rating and better noise reduction, it offers a smoother and quieter ride compared to the Alenza AS Ultra. If a peaceful, comfortable drive is crucial, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the superior option.
Treadwear and Durability
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 9.0 | 8.2 |
In terms of treadwear and overall tire life, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 has a significant advantage with a 9.0 treadwear rating compared to 8.2 for the Alenza AS Ultra. This suggests that the Pirelli tire may provide a longer tread life, potentially requiring fewer replacements over time, which translates to better value for your investment.
The Verdict
Choose Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 if:
- You prioritize maximum all-season performance across wet, dry, and winter conditions. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 consistently outperforms the Alenza AS Ultra in nearly every performance metric, including wet and dry traction, winter grip, comfort, noise, and projected tread life. If you want the most versatile and capable all-season tire, regardless of price, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the safer choice.
Opt for Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra if:
- You seek a well-rounded all-season tire with decent performance across the board. While the Alenza AS Ultra doesn’t quite match the Scorpion AS Plus 3’s ratings, it still offers solid capabilities in most areas and might come at a more affordable price point.
Ultimately, both the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra are excellent all-season tire choices. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 emerges as the higher-performing option overall, but the Alenza AS Ultra remains a strong contender, especially if budget is a concern. Consider your specific driving needs, budget, and priorities to make the best decision for your vehicle.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra are strong contenders, the tire market is bustling with alternatives that might better align with specific needs or budgets. Let’s explore a few other players in the all-season SUV/Crossover tire category and see how they stack up.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 9.1 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1, Wet Traction: 9.2)
- Dry: 9.3 (Corner Stability: 9.3, Dry Traction: 9.5, Steering Response: 9.2)
- Winter/Snow: 8.3 (Light Snow Traction: 8.8, Deep Snow Traction: 8.2, Ice Traction: 7.8)
- Comfort: 9.0 (Ride Quality: 9.2, Noise: 8.9)
- Treadwear: 9.1
Pros:
- Excellent dry traction and corner stability.
- High comfort and quiet ride.
- Good wet performance.
Cons:
- Moderate winter performance, especially on ice.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers seeking a well-rounded tire with great comfort and dry traction, but who may encounter occasional snow.
Michelin CrossClimate SUV
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 9.4 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.4, Wet Traction: 9.4)
- Dry: 9.5 (Corner Stability: 9.4, Dry Traction: 9.6, Steering Response: 9.4)
- Winter/Snow: 8.7 (Light Snow Traction: 9.1, Deep Snow Traction: 8.6, Ice Traction: 8.3)
- Comfort: 8.8 (Ride Quality: 9.1, Noise: 8.5)
- Treadwear: 8.3
Pros:
- Superior wet and dry performance.
- Good light snow traction.
- Comfortable ride quality.
Cons:
- Lower treadwear rating suggests a shorter lifespan.
Ideal Usage: Best for drivers prioritizing top-notch performance in wet and dry conditions, with some capability in light snow, and who don’t mind more frequent replacements.
Yokohama Geolandar CV G058
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 9.1 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.0, Wet Traction: 9.1)
- Dry: 9.2 (Corner Stability: 9.1, Dry Traction: 9.3, Steering Response: 9.1)
- Winter/Snow: 8.2 (Light Snow Traction: 8.6, Deep Snow Traction: 8.2, Ice Traction: 7.9)
- Comfort: 8.8 (Ride Quality: 9.0, Noise: 8.6)
- Treadwear: 9.0
Pros:
- Strong performance in wet and dry conditions.
- Comfortable and quiet ride.
- Good treadwear rating.
Cons:
- Mediocre deep snow and ice performance.
Ideal Usage: Ideal for drivers looking for a balanced tire with good comfort and performance in most conditions, including occasional light snow.
Each of these alternatives offers a unique set of features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Balanced Value and Performance: The Continental CrossContact LX25 strikes a great balance, offering solid performance in wet and dry conditions with excellent comfort. It’s perfect for drivers who want a reliable all-rounder.
- For Superior Performance in Wet and Dry Conditions: The Michelin CrossClimate SUV excels in wet and dry performance, making it ideal for those who demand the best traction and handling. However, it may require more frequent replacements due to its lower treadwear rating.
- For Comfort and Quiet Ride: The Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 is a strong contender for those who prioritize comfort and quietness. It performs well in most conditions and offers a good treadwear rating, making it a dependable choice for everyday driving.
Ultimately, the best tire for you will depend on your specific driving needs and preferences. Whether you value comfort, performance, or tread life, there’s a tire in the market that will meet your expectations.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Pirelli Product Page
- Bridgestone Product Page
- Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra depends on your specific driving needs and conditions. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 stands out with its excellent wet and dry performance, superior comfort, and better treadwear, making it a great choice for drivers who face varied conditions and prioritize a quiet, comfortable ride. On the other hand, the Alenza AS Ultra offers solid overall performance but may not last as long and struggles more in winter conditions.
For those driving in milder climates with less severe winters, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 provides a balanced mix of durability, comfort, and performance. If budget is a concern, the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra still presents a reliable option, especially if you’re mainly driving in dry conditions.
Good luck and happy motoring.
