Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

Initial Review, 5,000 Miles on Tires
January 21, 2013

I have had the Continental ExtremeWinterContact winter tires on my Honda Odyssey for a couple of years with very good experience and results. That was my primary motivation for getting the same tires for my 2010 Honda Insight. At first, I was apprehensive about the potential impact on my fuel mileage on the Insight with winter tires. After driving around for 5000 miles, I am surprised to find only a 3-5 mpg decrease with these tires versus the factory Dunlop SP31 (LRR) all-season tires. This is a phenomenal feat as the weather and road conditions have been much harsher on fuel mileage alone (ie. more time to warm up the engine and tires).

The handling of this set of WinterExtremeContact winter tires is not much different than the set on my minivan even though the size is narrower and smaller (195/60-15 versus 225/60-16). Given the different vehicle dynamics between a mini-van with a compact hybrid, the tires still convey the sense of assurance in traction and handling. Overall, I would highly recommend the Continental WinterExtremeContact winter tires for any hybrid owner (as well as mini-van owner).