Tire: Eagle Ultra Grip GW-3
Category: Performance Winter / Snow
UTQG (treadwear): Not rated
The Eagle Ultra Grip GW-3 is Goodyear's volume seller in this performance category. They also have offerings across other winter performance categories, but for a performance winter tire this will likely be the one you would have to choose. That being said, it currently only comes in 3 sizes ranging from 17" to 18". This tire was developed to provide great traction on any adverse winter weather condition and specifically geared towards high speed European style driving. This tire uses a directional performance compound and Goodyear's own V-TRED technology. The Eagle Ultra Grip also meets the industry's severe snow service standard and also have wear indicators in built in. Just with all winter tires, the tire manufacturer recommends that these tires only be installed in sets of four.
This tire does a good job at combining long life (for a winter tire), performance, and traction, and drivers have taken note of that. I've heard stories about how these tires will keep even large, powerful vehicles in line under very severe weather conditions. Possibly the only knock against them are that they are not known to be very quiet, especially in warmer weather. These tires on average will offer better longevity than other tires in the performance category. I've had numerous drivers tell me that they've gotten 50,000 miles or more out a set, which is great considering the aggressive tread compound. So overall I'd say this is a solid choice in the performance winter segment.
Also available in a run flat version: Goodyear Eagle Ultra Grip GW-3 RunOnFlat
