Update: You can see the details from the TUV report vs key competitors here.
Pirelli has unveiled the Cinturato Winter 3, a high-performance winter tyre aimed at sedans and crossovers, with independent verification of standout performance on snow and wet surfaces. Tested by DEKRA and TÜV in early 2025 (at the request of Pirelli), the tyre achieved first place on snow for braking, traction and handling when compared to the Bridgestone Blizzak 6, Continental WinterContact TS870, Goodyear Ultragrip Performance 3 and Michelin Alpin 7. The new CW3 also received the TÜV Premium Quality Mark. The range carries an A–B EU label rating for wet grip across all replacement sizes and a B rating for external noise.
Key performance claims
- Snow: Ranked first for braking, traction and handling in TÜV testing (225/45 R17, Feb–Mar 2025; Report No. 713367367).
- Wet: Tops charts for aquaplaning resistance and handling; A–B wet grip rating on the EU label across the range.
- Noise: 100% of sizes rated B on the EU external noise label.
- Mileage: Improved wear and durability versus the previous Cinturato Winter 2 (internal testing).
Design and technology
The tread pattern is the major update. A central zig-zag channel improves water evacuation, while optimised sipes and Snow Keeper Teeth help retain snow in the grooves to enhance snow-on-snow adhesion without sacrificing wet performance. The compound draws on Pirelli’s experience with the P Zero Winter 2 and uses a Dual-Core Polymer structure to maintain grip across a wide temperature window: high mobility at low temperatures aids snow grip, while maintaining traction on wet and dry roads. Wear resistance has also been improved.
Development leaned heavily on virtual methodologies to reduce prototypes and refine results. Pirelli’s Virtual Compounder, a generative AI tool, accelerated compound formulation by identifying effective material combinations. Physical testing continued in parallel at the Sottozero Centre in Swedish Lapland, including use of a new indoor winter facility that replicates cold conditions year-round. Across virtual and physical programmes, the tyre was evaluated on more than ten representative vehicle models.
Range, sizes and EV options
The Cinturato Winter 3 is on sale now in the replacement market with 35+ products from 16 to 20 inches. Pirelli Elect specifications are available for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) options reduce in-cabin noise via an internal sound-absorbing layer. Pirelli cites internal testing for Elect versions indicating up to a 10% battery range increase in specific use cases due to reduced rolling resistance.
Further reading on Tyre Reviews
We’ll be putting the Cinturato Winter 3 through our independent winter tyre tests soon. In the meantime, explore our latest winter comparisons and reviews for context on class performance and rivals.