Best Continental Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared by Type
Continental's lineup spans everything from ultra-high-performance summer tires to rugged all-terrain options and durable commuter bike tires. For most drivers, the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus is the top choice: it's a UHP all-season tire with a Y-speed symbol and XL load range, available in our pool for a wide range of sedans and SUVs. To build this guide, we filtered 132 Continental listings, selected 15 distinct models, and examined them based on stated specifications, tread design, and intended use.
15 picks from 132 tires that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For daily drivers in all seasons: You want one set of tires that handles rain, light snow, and dry highways without changing wheels. The ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus is an all-season UHP tire with a Y-speed symbol, for confident on-ramp use. See pick 1
- For performance driving in warm months: If you have a dedicated summer set and don't need cold-weather grip, the ExtremeContact Sport 02 delivers a 255/35ZR19 Y-speed symbol summer tire for track days and spirited road use. See pick 2
- For snow and cold regions: When winter tires are mandatory or you live in a mountain corridor, the VikingContact 8 has a winter touring tread with an XL load range and a T-speed symbol, suitable for icy roads. See pick 4
- For motorcycle riders: Riders who want a sport-touring set that works front and rear can use the ContiRoadAttack 4 set, which includes 120/70 and 190/55-17 sizes. See pick 6
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season 255/35ZR19 96Y XL
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 19 in
$217.02 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
This is the only UHP all-season tire in our pool with a Y-speed symbol and XL load range in a 255/35R19 size. It balances wet and dry performance with a tread pattern designed for all-season use, making it the most broadly capable car tire in the lineup.
Pros
- Y-speed symbol
- XL load range for heavier vehicles
- All-season tread for rain and light snow
- 19-inch rim fitment common on sport sedans
Cons
- Not intended for severe winter conditions
- Only one size in our pool (255/35R19)
Good fit if
- Drivers of sporty sedans and coupes who want all-season capability
- Anyone who frequently drives in rain or occasional light snow
Skip if
- You drive mostly in deep winter snow
- You need a tire in a smaller or larger diameter not listed
Verdict: A well-rounded UHP all-season tire that covers most driving needs for modern performance cars.
2 Best summer performance
Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 Summer 255/35ZR19 96Y XL Passenger
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Summer
- Rim size
- 19 in
$288.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
With a summer compound and a 96Y XL load range in 255/35R19, this tire is designed for warm-weather traction and high-speed stability. It lacks all-weather tread but prioritizes cornering grip and braking.
Pros
- Y-speed symbol
- XL load range for heavier cars
- Summer compound optimized for warm-weather roads
- Same 255/35R19 size as the DWS06 for comparison
Cons
- Not suitable for temperatures near freezing
- Summer tread wears faster on long highway trips
Good fit if
- Track-day enthusiasts and autocross drivers
- Owners of performance cars that have a separate winter set
Skip if
- You need year-round capability
- You drive in cold weather or on snow
Verdict: A focused summer UHP tire for drivers who value maximum dry and wet grip over tread life.
3 Best all-terrain
Continental TerrainContact A/T All-Season Radial Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- All Terrain
- Rim size
- 21 in and up
- Tire size
- 285/45R22
$331.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The TerrainContact A/T is an all-season, all-terrain tire with a 285/45R22 XL load range. Its aggressive tread pattern is meant for light off-road use while maintaining highway comfort.
Pros
- All-terrain tread for gravel and dirt
- XL load range, H speed symbol for heavy trucks and SUVs
- 22-inch rim fitment for modern large pickups
- All-season compound for year-round use
Cons
- Large size may not fit standard crossovers without modifications
- Only one size in the pool
Good fit if
- Truck and SUV owners who tow or carry heavy loads
- Drivers who need occasional off-road ability plus highway manners
Skip if
- You spend most time on pavement and want a quieter touring tire
- Your vehicle requires a smaller rim diameter
Verdict: A capable all-terrain tire with the load capacity for serious trucks and SUVs.
4 Best winter
Continental VikingContact 8 Passenger Car Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 19 in
$332.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
This is the only winter touring tire in our pool, with a 255/35R19 size and XL load range. Its tread design includes winter-specific sipes for snow and ice traction.
Pros
- Winter-specific compound and tread design
- XL load range for heavier vehicles
- 19-inch rim fitment common on performance cars
- T-speed symbol for highway use
Cons
- Only one size in the pool
- Winter tires wear quickly on dry pavement
Good fit if
- Drivers in snowy, cold-weather states
- Performance car owners who install a winter set
Skip if
- You live in a mild climate without significant snow
- You need a winter tire for a truck or SUV
Verdict: A dedicated winter tire for drivers who face harsh cold and snow.
5 Best touring all-season
CONTINENTAL TrueContact Tour Performance Radial Tire-195/65R15 91H
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Rim size
- 15 in
- Tire size
- 195/65R15
$141.29 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The TrueContact Tour is a performance radial in a common 195/65R15 size with an H-speed symbol. It focuses on long wear and low noise while keeping all-season capability.
Pros
- H-speed symbol
- Touring tread design for long tread life
- 15-inch rim for compact sedans
- All-season compound
Cons
- No XL load range
- Not designed for sporty handling
Good fit if
- Owners of compact cars and economy sedans
- Drivers who prioritize tread life and comfort
Skip if
- You need a high-performance or winter tire
- You drive a large SUV or truck
Verdict: A dependable all-season touring tire that suits everyday commuting and highway cruising.
6 Best motorcycle set
Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 Front & Rear Tire Set 120/70 & 190/55-17
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$511.00 price as of 2026-10-05 05:33 UTC (Details)
This set includes both a 120/70 and a 190/55-17 tire, covering front and rear on many sport-touring bikes. The tread pattern is biased toward both dry grip and wet confidence, and it comes as a matching pair.
Pros
- Includes both front and rear tires
- Sport-touring tread for combined grip and mileage
- Sizes fit many Japanese and European sport-touring motorcycles
- One part number for a matched set
Cons
- No speed symbol stated in the listing
- Only one set size available in the pool
Good fit if
- Sport-touring riders who need a balanced set
- Motorcyclists who ride in mixed conditions
Skip if
- You need a track-only race tire
- Your bike uses non-standard sizes
Verdict: A practical matched pair for sport-touring motorcycles that serve both daily and weekend riding.
7 Best road bike tire
Continental Grand Prix 5000 700x28 Black Clincher Road Bike Tires
- Vehicle
- Bicycle
- Sold as
- Set of 2
$123.10 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details) Typical price: $139.69, 12% off
The Grand Prix 5000 is a clincher road tire in 700x28c with a BlackChili compound and Vectran breaker. It is known for low rolling resistance and good puncture protection, and this listing includes two tires.
Pros
- Set of two tires
- 700x28 size fits modern road bikes
- BlackChili compound for low rolling resistance
- Vectran breaker for puncture resistance
Cons
- Not tubeless-ready (clincher only)
- Narrow size not suited for gravel
Good fit if
- Road cyclists who want a fast training or racing tire
- Commuters who value puncture protection
Skip if
- You need tubeless road tires
- You ride off-road or rough gravel
Verdict: A benchmark clincher road tire that balances speed and reliability.
8 Best urban and touring bike tire
Continental Gatorskin
- Vehicle
- Bicycle
- Sold as
- Set of 2
$98.56 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details) Typical price: $109.80, 10% off
The Gatorskin is built with a PolyX Breaker and Duraskin layer, making it one of the most durable road tires in the lineup. It's listed as a 2-pack, suitable for daily commuting and touring.
Pros
- Set of two tires
- PolyX breaker for cut resistance
- Duraskin sidewall reinforcement
- All-round road tread
Cons
- Heavier than lighter race tires
- Lower rolling efficiency than GP5000
Good fit if
- Cyclists who commute on rough streets
- Tourers who need long tread life
Skip if
- You are competing and need the lightest fastest tire
- You ride only on super smooth tarmac
Verdict: A tough, dependable tire for riders who prioritize durability over speed.
9 Best light truck tire
Continental VanContact A/S Commercial Truck Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 16 in
- Tire size
- 235/65R16
$216.20 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details) Typical price: $235.58, 8% off
The VanContact A/S is a commercial light truck tire in 235/65R16 with a 121R load index. It's designed for vans and light commercial vehicles, with an all-season tread pattern that supports heavy loads.
Pros
- 121R load index for heavy van loads
- All-season tread for year-round duty
- 16-inch rim fitment for standard vans
- Commercial-grade casing
Cons
- Not intended for off-road use
- Only one size in the pool
Good fit if
- Van and light truck owners who carry cargo
- Fleet operators looking for a durable all-season tire
Skip if
- You need an aggressive all-terrain tire
- Your vehicle has a larger rim diameter
Verdict: A dependable all-season commercial tire that handles the demands of light truck service.
10 Best commercial highway
Continental HSL 3 295/75R22.5 149L H Commercial Tire
- Vehicle
- Commercial truck
- Rim size
- 22.5 in
$801.07 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The HSL 3 is a 295/75R22.5 highway tire for commercial trucks, with an L load range. Its ribbed tread is designed for long mileage on steer and drive axles.
Pros
- 295/75R22.5 standard commercial size
- L load range (149L) for heavy trucks
- Ribbed highway tread for stability
- Designed for long-haul service
Cons
- Not for off-road applications
- Very large size, only for commercial wheels
Good fit if
- Truck fleets and owner-operators running highway miles
- Drivers who need a reliable steer-axle tire
Skip if
- You drive a light truck or passenger vehicle
- You need a drive-axle traction tire
Verdict: A solid highway commercial tire built for long-distance freight.
11 Best all-weather
Continental SecureContact AW Truck/SUV All-Weather High Performance
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- All Weather
- Rim size
- 20 in
- Tire size
- 245/45R20
$289.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The SecureContact AW is an all-weather truck/SUV tire in 245/45R20 with a 103W load index and W speed symbol. It carries the all-weather label, indicating a more severe snow service designation than standard all-season tires.
Pros
- All-weather design for better snow grip than all-season
- W speed symbol (up to 168 mph)
- XL load range (103W)
- 20-inch fitment for crossovers and SUVs
Cons
- Not a full winter tire for extreme deep snow
- Only one size in the pool
Good fit if
- SUV and crossover owners who face moderate winter weather
- Drivers who want one tire that works in all four seasons
Skip if
- You need a dedicated winter tire for hard ice
- You drive a larger full-size pickup
Verdict: A year-round all-weather tire that offers extra snow capability without switching wheels.
12 Best SUV all-season
Continental CrossContact LX Sport All Season 235/65R18 106H
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 18 in
- Tire size
- 235/65R18
$185.55 price as of 2026-10-05 05:33 UTC (Details)
The CrossContact LX Sport is an all-season tire in 235/65R18 for SUVs and crossovers. It combines a touring tread with an H-speed symbol and is designed for comfortable highway cruising.
Pros
- H-speed symbol
- All-season tread for varied climates
- 18-inch rim fitment for popular SUVs
- Touring construction for ride comfort
Cons
- No XL load range
- Not designed for off-road use
Good fit if
- Crossover and SUV owners who stay on pavement
- Drivers looking for a balanced everyday tire
Skip if
- You need a heavy-duty tire for towing
- You go off-roading regularly
Verdict: A capable all-season SUV tire that prioritizes comfort and drivability.
13 Best sport motorcycle rear
Continental ContiSportAttack Rear Motorcycle Tire 180/55ZR17 Sport
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$126.96 price as of 2026-10-05 05:33 UTC (Details)
This rear motorcycle tire is a 180/55ZR17 sport tire, designed for high-performance street sport bikes. Its ZR speed symbol indicates it can sustain speeds above 149 mph (240 km/h).
Pros
- ZR speed symbol for high-performance bikes
- 180/55-17 rear size fits many sport bikes
- Sport-oriented tread for aggressive cornering
- Single tire part number for replacement
Cons
- Rear tire only, requires a matching front
- Sport compound may wear quickly on long highway trips
Good fit if
- Sport bike riders replacing a worn rear tire
- Riders who want a sticky rear tire for canyon and track use
Skip if
- You need a full set (front and rear)
- You ride a cruiser or touring bike with different sizes
Verdict: A direct replacement rear sport tire for riders seeking maximum grip on their sport motorcycle.
14 Best tubeless road bike tire
The Grand Prix 5000 S TR is a tubeless road bike tire from the same 5000 family, offering lower weight and puncture resistance without an inner tube. This listing is for a single tire, not a pair.
Pros
- Tubeless ready, reduces rolling resistance
- BlackChili compound for low rolling resistance
- Vectran breaker for puncture protection
- Designed for high-performance road riding
Cons
- Listed as one tire, not a pair
- May require tubeless rim tape and sealant
Good fit if
- Road cyclists who want tubeless convenience
- Racers and enthusiasts seeking low rolling resistance
Skip if
- You prefer a paired set out of the box
- You don't have tubeless-compatible rims
Verdict: A top-tier tubeless road tire that brings the GP5000 performance to tubeless systems.
15 Best truck/SUV winter tire
Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
$329.86 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
This VikingContact 8 is the truck/SUV version in 275/45R20 with a 110T load index. It provides a winter-specific tread with a higher load capacity for heavier vehicles, making it the best winter option for SUVs in the pool.
Pros
- XL load range (110T) for heavy SUVs
- Winter tread design with sipes
- 20-inch fitment for modern SUVs
- T-speed symbol for highway use
Cons
- Only one size in the pool
- Winter tires require careful temperature management
Good fit if
- SUV and truck owners who need winter tires
- Drivers in snowy conditions who tow or carry heavy loads
Skip if
- You drive a compact car with a smaller rim
- You need an all-season tire
Verdict: A dedicated winter tire for large SUVs and trucks that demand extra load capacity.
Specifications side by side
How the picks were chosen
We examined the full catalog of 132 Continental tire listings in the pool and eliminated near-duplicate sizes to end with 15 distinct products. Each pick was shortlisted by its stated tread type, vehicle class, and load and speed symbols, with no preference given to price or seller reputation. We did not test any tire, and we do not rely on user reviews. Prices on the page are live and read from the store listing at the time shown. Specifications come from the product listing; where a spec is missing, we say so. Credits for regulatory background go to U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and industry standards bodies.
Picking the right one for you
Start with your vehicle's size and load index
The most important number on a tire is the size and load index, which must match what your vehicle's manufacturer recommends. Check the placard on your driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. For example, a tire like the 255/35ZR19 ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus has a load index of 96 and a speed symbol of Y. Load index indicates how much weight the tire can carry at a given pressure; using a lower index can overload the tire. Federal safety standards, such as 49 CFR § 571.110 for vehicles under 10,000 pounds, specify that the vehicle's maximum load on the tire cannot exceed the tire's load index. Always pick a tire that meets or exceeds your vehicle's original load index.
Match the tread type to your climate
Continental tires come in summer, all-season, all-weather, and winter variants in this pool. Summer tires like the ExtremeContact Sport 02 deliver maximum grip in warm, dry conditions but harden in cold temperatures. All-season tires, such as the ProContact TX, work in a range of conditions but are not ideal for deep snow. All-weather tires like the SecureContact AW carry a severe snow service symbol, giving them a step up in winter without needing a dedicated set. Winter tires, such as the VikingContact 8, use a soft compound and deep sipes for ice and snow. If you face regular snow, a winter set is the safest choice.
Consider the speed symbol
Speed symbols indicate the maximum speed a tire can sustain over time. For example, a Y symbol allows speeds above 186 mph, while H allows up to 130 mph, and T up to 118 mph. It's legal to install a higher speed symbol than original, but not lower. For performance cars, a higher symbol (W or Y) is common on summer and UHP tires. For daily drivers and touring tires, H or V is usually sufficient. Check your vehicle's manual or the existing tires to see the original symbol.
Decide between tubed and tubeless for bicycles
The bike tires in this guide include both clincher (Grand Prix 5000) and tubeless (Grand Prix 5000 S TR) models. Clincher tires require an inner tube, while tubeless tires seal around the rim and use a liquid sealant. Tubeless tires can reduce rolling resistance and puncture flats, but they require compatible rims and sealant. If you want simplicity and don't mind a tube, the clincher GP5000 is a proven option; for lower weight and fewer flats, consider the S TR.
For motorcycles, check the size and position
Motorcycle tires are size-specific and often position-specific (front vs. rear). The ContiRoadAttack 4 set includes both a 120/70 front and a 190/55 rear, making it easy to match a set. The ContiSportAttack rear tire is designed only for the rear and must be paired with a compatible front tire. Always confirm the tire is the right direction and load index for your motorcycle. Federal standard 49 CFR § 571.119 covers tires for motorcycles with a GVWR more than 10,000 pounds, but for lighter bikes, standard 139 applies. Follow your motorcycle manufacturer's recommendations.
Don't ignore the tire pressure monitoring system
Modern vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems, or TPMS, to alert you when inflation drops. According to FMVSS 138, the system must warn you within 20 minutes if pressure falls 25% below the recommended level. Proper inflation is essential for tire safety and fuel economy; the U.S. Department of Energy notes that under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 psi drop. Check your pressure monthly and before long trips.
Questions
Are Continental tires good quality?
Continental is a major global tire manufacturer and a member of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association. The tires in this guide include performance, touring, and winter models that meet federal safety standards. We did not test them ourselves, but they are produced by a well-established company with a broad range of engineering expertise. Always choose a tire that matches your vehicle's required size and load index.
What does the DWS06 on Continental tires mean?
DWS stands for Dry, Wet, Snow, indicating the tire is designed for those conditions. The 06 in the name refers to the tire's generation or design family. The DWS06 Plus is an ultra-high-performance all-season tire; the suffix Plus signifies a newer version with improved tread design and compound compared to the original DWS06.
Can I mix Continental tires with other brands?
For most passenger cars, it is not recommended to mix tire brands or types on the same axle, and it may violate your vehicle manufacturer's guidelines. Tire designs and compounds differ, which can affect handling, traction, and water displacement. For best safety, install the same brand, model, and size on all four wheels. If you mix, at least keep the same size and speed symbol on each axle.
How do I know which Continental tire size fits my car?
Look at the tire placard on your driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. It lists the original tire size, such as 205/55R16, and the recommended inflation pressure. The tires in our pool are labeled with sizes like 215/55R17 or 235/65R18. You should match both the three-part size (width, aspect ratio, rim diameter) and the load index and speed symbol. When in doubt, consult a tire professional.
Are Continental all-season tires good in snow?
All-season tires, such as the DWS06 Plus or ProContact TX, offer limited capability on packed snow and ice. They are not a substitute for dedicated winter tires in areas with heavy snowfall. If you live in a region with frequent winter storms, a winter tire like the VikingContact 8 is safer. All-weather tires, like the SecureContact AW, carry a severe snow service symbol and are a better compromise for moderate winter conditions.
What is the difference between tubeless and clincher road bike tires?
Clincher tires require an inner tube, which holds air inside the tire. Tubeless tires eliminate the tube and create a seal with the rim, using liquid sealant to plug punctures. Tubeless tires, like the Grand Prix 5000 S TR, typically have lower rolling resistance and fewer flats from small punctures. However, they require tubeless-ready rims and sealant maintenance. Clincher tires are easier to install and work on any rim with a tube.
Revision notes
- : First published.
Sources
- 49 CFR § 571.139 - New pneumatic radial tires for light vehicles
- 49 CFR § 571.119 - New pneumatic tires for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds, specialty tires, and tires for motorcycles
- 49 CFR § 571.138 - Tire pressure monitoring systems
- U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA)
- U.S. Department of Energy - Gas Mileage Tips