2025 Friction Winter Tyre Test
The Nordman North RS3 SUV is traditionally a reincarnation of older tyres from Nokian but with a slightly cheaper rubber compound. The new RS3 has the same tread pattern design as the old Nokian R3 (the predecessor to R5), and the advantages and disadvantages are also recognized. Plus points are awarded for good winter grip, where Nordman can challenge the best in the field and is actually better than Nokian in braking and is easier to balance at the grip limit on ice. However, unlike its more expensive sibling, it falls far behind in the wet rounds with longer braking distances and lower cornering grip. On dry pavement, it also has a clearly non-linear steering feel. Clear emphasis on winter roads with weaker asphalt characteristics gives it sixth place. Despite this being an older generation than current Nokian, it's easier to control on ice and snow with better balance at the limit, though it has generally low wet grip and inconsistent steering feel on asphalt. The fuel consumption is notably good.