Continental ContiWinterContact TS 850

Verdict Simply superb performance whatever the weather.

Continental only just failed to make it three wins on the trot, and a second victory for the TS 850. It was a match for winter tyre expert Nokian in the snow, only falling behind on the slushplaning, which is part of the WR D3’s development. On the climbs and swoops of the snow handling circuit, the TS 850 had a good balance that allowed the rear to move a little, helping the Octavia around the turns. Acceleration was also good out of corners, which was reflected in the traction test. And it maintained its snow superiority in the wet tests, with a string of top threes – just as we saw with the 16-inch version last year. The sense of security on the snow was also felt in the wet, with good grip off the turns. The rear was stable despite positive turn-in. Continental’s bid for victory unravelled in the remaining tests – it had to give best in dry braking, cabin noise and rolling resistance, as the Nokian gained the advantage. But this is still a special tyre.