What are the best w...
 
Notifications
Clear all

What are the best winter tires for a Volkswagen ID.4?

6 Posts
7 Users
0 Reactions
202 Views
0
Topic starter

I recently picked up a 2023 ID.4 Pro S, and with winter just around the corner, I’m getting a bit nervous about the stock tires. Since this EV is significantly heavier than my old car and has that specific staggered wheel setup (235/50R20 in the front and 255/45R20 in the rear), I want to make sure I get the right fit. I’m mainly concerned about maintaining traction in deep snow while trying not to completely tank my range. I’ve been looking at the Michelin X-Ice Snow and the Bridgestone Blizzaks, but I'm torn. For those driving an ID.4 in snowy climates, which winter tires have you found offer the best balance of grip and efficiency?


Topic Tags
6 Answers
20

Ok so, I've been running the Michelin setup on my ID.4 for two seasons now and honestly, it's the way to go. Here is why i think they win:

1. Efficiency: They basically have lower rolling resistance, so you wont see your range tank as hard as with the Blizzaks.
2. Longevity: They last way longer on heavy EVs.
3. Noise: Super quiet on the highway.

But yeah, make sure to check your pressure often cuz the weight really affects the wear!!


17

sooo I've been driving EVs for about six years now and honestly, the weight factor is something people always underestimate until they're sliding sideways lol. basically, because the ID.4 is so heavy, your tires have to work double time to find grip, which usually means they wear out faster than on a gas car. I learned the hard way with my first set that if you go for the cheapest option, you'll literally be buying new ones by February.

Check out the "Tire Decision Guide" over at Tire Rack or even the forums on VWVortex—there's a massive spreadsheet some enthusiasts made that tracks range loss vs. grip for the ID.4 specifically. It's a great resource if you're trying to crunch the numbers on efficiency.

I personally went with a slightly narrower setup for my current winter wheels to cut through the slush better. It was actually a bit cheaper too!! But be careful about the load rating; make sure to get "XL" (Extra Load) rated tires because of that heavy battery pack. If you don't, you're gonna have a bad time with sidewall bubbles. I also suggest looking into a dedicated set of 18 or 19-inch rims for winter. It saves ur 20-inch alloys from the salt and pays for itself after a few seasons of not paying for mounting and balancing. Plus, smaller wheels usually help recover some of that lost range. anyway, hope that helps you narrow it down, gl!


13

Same boat, watching this


8

Ok so, i've been doing a ton of market research on this lately cuz i was SO stressed about my own ID.4 setup. For your situation, i would suggest looking at Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 235/50R20 255/45R20 because they're specifically engineered for heavier EVs. Honestly, while Blizzaks are legendary for grip, they kinda kill your range compared to the Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV 235/50R20 255/45R20 which is probably the better balance for efficiency. Just make sure to check the load rating on whatever you pick!!


5

Quick question before I weigh in properly: are you mainly dealing with plowed city streets or do you actually have to trek through unplowed deep powder?

In my experience, safety is the top priority with a heavy EV like the ID.4 because its momentum makes braking a total nightmare on ice. While the X-Ice is great for range, if you're hitting serious slush, you might want to look into the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV 235/50R20 or the Continental WinterContact TS 860 S 255/45R20 for the rear. They handle the weight better imo!


2

Jumping in here because I am totally obsessed with winter setups! You seriously gotta check out the Continental VikingContact 7 235/50R20 for the front and Continental VikingContact 7 255/45R20 for your rears. They are absolutely amazing for heavy EVs because the compound stays flexible even when it is freezing out... literally saved me from a slide last year! Quick DIY tip: if you have the space, definitely look into getting a dedicated set of 19-inch rims for winter instead of swapping tires on your stock 20s every time. Smaller wheels give you a bit more sidewall which is a total lifesaver for those hidden winter potholes. It makes the whole seasonal swap so much faster in the driveway and honestly saves your nice alloys from all that nasty salt and grime. You are gonna love the grip on these things!


Share:
CarForumTalk.COM is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Auto Accessory Picks