Continental sets benchmark in 2026 European Summer tire tests

• 13 test wins and 19 podium finishes across 24 independent evaluations
• Strong results in braking, wet grip and overall balance across multiple tests
• Consistent performance across premium, UHP and sustainable tire segments

Hannover, Germany, May 13, 20206. Continental delivered a standout performance in this year’s independent European summer tire tests, securing 13 wins and 19 podium finishes across 24 evaluations conducted by leading automotive publications and mobility organizations. The results underline the company’s ability to consistently perform at the top across a wide range of tire segments and test conditions.

Top results in all core categories 

Across multiple test formats, Continental tires ranked among the top performers, particularly in key categories such as braking, wet grip and overall balance. The results demonstrate a high level of consistency across different vehicle classes, from sustainability-focused products to ultra high performance applications.The results verify Continental´s ambitions as premium tire manufacturer.

Consistency across segments

“These results confirm the consistency of our product performance across different segments and test conditions,” said Andreas Schlenke, Tire Expert at Continental. “They show that our focus on braking, wet grip and overall balance translates directly into strong results in independent testing.”

Several products contributed to these results.

The PremiumContact 7 was named overall winner in the Auto Zeitung UHP summer tire test, receiving top marks for its balanced performance in both wet and dry conditions.

The SportContact 7 secured first place in the Auto Bild sportscars UHP test, where it was recognized for its precise handling and shortest braking distances.

The UltraContact NXT also achieved a leading position in the AvD summer tire test, demonstrating that sustainability-focused tire concepts can deliver strong performance in core safety disciplines.

Across tests, a clear pattern emerges: strong braking performance, high levels of wet grip and a well-balanced overall driving behavior. These strengths were consistently highlighted by independent testers and confirm Continental’s focus on core safety and performance characteristics.

What independent testers say 

Independent test organizations highlighted Continental’s performance across key disciplines:

“Outstanding in wet conditions and very good in dry conditions… a clear winner.” – Auto Zeitung on the PremiumContact 7.

“The king of handling, with outstanding performance on wet and dry roads.” – Auto Bild sportscars on the SportContact 7.

“Excellent results in core disciplines such as braking, handling and stability.” – AvD on the UltraContact NXT. 

Our engineering focus 

These results are supported by continuous development in tread design, compound technologies and tire construction, enabling a balanced combination of safety, efficiency and driving dynamics.

Strong start for Continental into the year 2026 

The 2026 test season once again demonstrates Continental’s ability to deliver reliable top-level performance across a broad portfolio and a wide range of independent evaluations.