Conti winter tyres approved for latest Ford models

WinterContact TS 870 and TS 870 P will give enhanced grip, shorter braking distances on ice and snow, and increased longevity to five of the OEM’s latest models

Continental WinterContact TS 870 P (Photo: Continental)

Continental’s latest generation of winter tyres, the WinterContact TS 870 and 870 P have received approval from Ford for original fitment on the current Explorer, Fiesta, Focus, Mustang and Puma models. Both tyres are now available from Ford dealers. The current tyres, which were launched onto the aftermarket in 2021 offer precise steering and excellent safety characteristics, backed by a success independent magazine testing season in 2022.

The following products and sizes are approved for the Ford Explorer, Fiesta, Focus, Mustang and Puma models in European markets:

Ford Explorer:

• WinterContact TS 870 P in size 255/55 R20 110V XL FR

Ford Fiesta:

• WinterContact TS 870 in size 195/60R15 88T
• WinterContact TS 870 P in size 205/45R17 88V XL FR

Ford Focus:

• WinterContact TS 870 in size 195/65R16 92H
• WinterContact TS 870 P in size 205/60R16 92H
• WinterContact TS 870 P in size 215/50R17 95H XL FR

Ford Mustang:

• WinterContact TS 870 P in size 255/40 R19 100V XL FR

Ford Puma:

• WinterContact TS 870 in size 205/65R16 95H

Continental TS WinterContact TS 870 and 870 P characteristics

Continental WinterContact TS 870 (Photo: Continental)

For the latest generation of its long-running WinterContact series, Continental engineers opted to design the WinterContact TS 870 and WinterContact TS 870 P from scratch; the manufacturer sought to optimise the tread pattern and rubber compound in the process. This overhaul decreased the ice braking distance of the WinterContact TS 870 by 3 per cent versus the predecessor model, while its handling on snow has been improved by 5 per cent. It also offers improved grip on snow. The biggest improvement is to longevity; the tyre will run 10 per cent further, while the WinterContact TS 870 P is 16 per cent better than its predecessor in this metric.

The improved properties of Continental’s WinterContact TS 870 convinced independent testers in late 2022. UK motoring magazine Auto Express made the tyre its winter winner over six test disciplines – snow braking, snow circle, rolling resistance, dry handling, wet circle, and aquaplaning. The General German Automobile Club (ADAC) also declared it the “most balanced tyre” in its test.

The WinterContact TS 870 P also secured podium spots with specialist magazines Auto Bild Allrad and Auto Bild Sportscars each singling it out for its short braking distances on snow and its sporty, dynamic handling on wet roads. The testers also praised its exceptionally low rolling resistance.

The WinterContact TS 870 and WinterContact TS 870 P are available from tire dealerships in numerous countries for a range of car brands and their models. The WinterContact TS 870 is suitable for compact, mid-sized and entry-level luxury cars. The WinterContact TS 870 P is the ideal solution for sedans, SUVs and sports cars. The stable design also makes the tire ideally suited for the heavier vehicles with electronic drives due to their construction.