Which tire is better suited for rain-slicked highways or a frosty morning commute? Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive or Scorpion AS Plus 3? It’s not just about picking a tire; it’s about choosing a road companion that matches your seasonal challenges.
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive excels in severe wet and winter conditions with superior hydroplaning resistance and snow traction, while the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a strong performer in dry conditions. Depending on your climate and driving needs, each tire offers distinct advantages.
In this article, we dissect the features, performance, and suitability of both Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 tires, helping you decide which tire will best suit your driving needs.
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.3 of 10
Wet Weather
9.5 of 10
Winter Weather
9.1 of 10
Tread Wear
9.3 of 10
Dry Weather
9.5 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.5 of 10
Cornering: 9.5 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.4 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.4 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.3 of 10
Road Noise: 9.1 of 10
When the rubber meets the road, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive doesn’t just tread lightly—it excels, especially in challenging weather conditions. Tailored for SUVs and crossovers, this tire offers a top-tier performance that many drivers swear by.
Here’s why it stands out from the crowd:
Wet Weather
Scoring an impressive 9.5 out of 10, the Scorpion WeatherActive shines on wet surfaces. With a hydroplaning resistance of 9.4, you can expect this tire to keep its cool—and grip—during a downpour. Its wet traction rating of 9.5 means less worrying about slips and more smooth sailing (or driving, in this case).
Dry Weather
On dry land, these tires still impress with a 9.5 rating. The corner stability and dry traction both score high marks (9.5 and 9.6, respectively), making it a reliable choice for those who enjoy spirited drives on sunny days. Steering response at 9.4 ensures that when you turn the wheel, the car follows suit with precision.
Winter Weather
Winter conditions often throw a wrench in the works for many tires, but the Scorpion WeatherActive holds its own with an overall score of 9.1. It handles light snow with aplomb (9.4) and doesn’t falter much even in deeper snow (9.2). Ice traction, while lower at 8.7, still surpasses many competitors, making it a solid choice for colder climates.
Comfort and Treadwear
No one enjoys a noisy or bumpy ride. Fortunately, this tire rates 9.2 in comfort, thanks to excellent ride quality (9.3) and reduced road noise (9.1). Durability is key in any tire investment, and with a treadwear rating of 9.2, the Scorpion WeatherActive promises longevity and consistent performance.
Pros
- Exceptional wet and dry performance
- Strong winter capabilities
- Comfortable, quiet ride
- Durable with good tread life
Cons
- Ice traction, although decent, isn’t the best on the market. If you’re living in an area prone to icy conditions, this might be a consideration.
- Premium performance comes at a premium price—these tires may hit your wallet harder than some other options.
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
Find The Best Price
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
For those who demand versatility without compromise, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 steps up as a formidable player in the all-season tire game. Designed for SUVs and crossovers, this tire aims to tackle diverse driving conditions with ease.
Let’s delve into what makes it a standout choice for many drivers:
Wet Weather
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 scores a commendable 9.1 on wet performance. With hydroplaning resistance and wet traction both rated at 9.1 and 9.2 respectively, this tire ensures that rainy days won’t dampen your driving spirit. Whether it’s a light drizzle or a torrential downpour, expect controlled and responsive handling.
Dry Weather
On dry roads, this tire truly excels, posting a 9.4 overall score. It boasts a corner stability rating of 9.4 and a dry traction of 9.5, making it a reliable option for those sunny day drives. The steering response of 9.3 also means that the tire communicates effectively with the road, offering a reassuring sense of control.
Winter Weather
While it’s designed as an all-season tire, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 holds its ground in winter conditions with a total score of 8.3. It navigates light snow with a score of 8.7 and manages deeper snow with an 8.2 rating. Ice traction is at 7.9, which, while satisfactory, suggests caution on icy roads.
Comfort and Treadwear
Comfort is where the Scorpion AS Plus 3 really shines, scoring an overall 9.2. It offers a plush ride quality rated at 9.3 and keeps noise at a low 9.1, making long trips less of a chore and more of a pleasure. With a treadwear rating of 9.0, this tire is built to last, promising endurance through many seasons.
Pros
- Excellent performance in both wet and dry conditions
- High level of comfort and low noise
- Durable construction for extended use
- Reliable handling in light to moderate snow
Cons
- Ice traction could be improved, making it less ideal for regions with severe winter conditions
- As with many high-quality tires, the price might be a bit steep for budget-conscious buyers
Comparative Analysis
When deciding between the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive and the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, it’s crucial to carefully consider their respective strengths and how they align with your driving needs. Both tires offer robust all-season performance, but there are nuances that differentiate them. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| Wet Traction | 9.5 | 9.2 |
In wet conditions, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive holds a slight edge with a 9.5 wet traction rating compared to 9.2 for the AS Plus 3. Although both are excellent, the WeatherActive provides a bit more confidence in heavy rain.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.5 | 9.4 |
| Dry Traction | 9.6 | 9.5 |
| Steering Response | 9.4 | 9.3 |
The WeatherActive also maintains a slight advantage in dry performance metrics, offering a bit more assurance in cornering stability, dry traction, and steering responsiveness.
Winter Performance
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Light Snow Traction | 9.4 | 8.7 |
| Deep Snow Traction | 9.2 | 8.2 |
| Ice Traction | 8.7 | 7.9 |
The WeatherActive notably outperforms the AS Plus 3 in winter conditions, offering better traction in light and deep snow, as well as on ice.
Comfort and Noise
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 9.3 | 9.3 |
| Noise | 9.1 | 9.1 |
Both tires offer comparable levels of comfort and noise reduction, making either a pleasant choice for drivers who value a quiet, smooth ride.
Treadwear and Durability
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 9.2 | 9.0 |
The WeatherActive edges out the AS Plus 3 in durability with a slightly higher treadwear rating, suggesting it might last longer under similar conditions.
The Verdict
- Choose Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive if: You prioritize exceptional all-season performance, especially in wet and winter conditions. It consistently outperforms the AS Plus 3 in nearly every metric.
- Opt for Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 if: You seek a high-performing all-season tire that excels in dry conditions and offers very competitive performance in other areas at potentially a slightly lower price point.
Each tire has its advantages, making the choice dependent on your specific driving conditions and priorities. Both options reflect Pirelli’s commitment to quality and performance.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive and Scorpion AS Plus 3 are solid 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: Robust performance in both wet and dry conditions; offers a comfortable ride. Cons: Winter traction could be better, particularly on ice. Ideal Usage: Great for drivers who prioritize year-round driving comfort and are less likely to face severe winter conditions.
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: Excellent wet and dry handling; good performance in light snow. Cons: Treadwear is slightly lower, suggesting a shorter lifespan than some competitors. Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers in climates with moderate winters who also value handling and responsiveness.
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: Solid performance in both wet and dry conditions; reasonably comfortable. Cons: Winter performance, especially on ice, could be improved. Ideal Usage: A good choice for drivers who need a reliable tire for varied but not extreme winter conditions.
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 good balance, providing solid performance across most conditions without breaking the bank.
- For Top-Notch All-Round Performance: The Michelin CrossClimate SUV excels in both dry and wet conditions, making it ideal for those who face changing weather patterns but still want superior handling.
- For Comfort on Long Drives: The Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 shines when it comes to providing a smooth ride, suitable for families or those who often go on longer trips, offering a mix of good performance and comfort.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive Product Page
- Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 Product Page
- Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Deciding between the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive and Scorpion AS Plus 3 boils down to specific driving conditions and personal needs. The WeatherActive is your go-to for harsh weather, offering unmatched performance in wet and snowy conditions. On the other hand, the AS Plus 3 shines on dry roads and provides excellent year-round reliability with slightly less emphasis on severe winter traction. Both are top-tier tires from Pirelli, designed to elevate driving experience and safety.
Good luck and happy motoring.
