Continental Tire Introduces VikingContact 8: A Smart Step Forward in Winter Driving Confidence

VikingContact 8

Fort Mill, S.C. – August 1, 2025 – Continental Tire proudly introduces the VikingContact 8, our next-generation winter tire engineered to deliver exceptional performance in snow, ice, and cold-weather conditions. Available in over 80 standard sizes and designed to fit rim diameters from 15 to 22 inches, the VikingContact 8 is built for passenger cars, SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks. With broad market coverage and advanced technologies, it’s the smart choice for confident winter driving.

The VikingContact 8 is Ice-Grip certified—an industry-recognized designation that demonstrates its ability to maintain traction on icy surfaces under demanding conditions. Along with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, this certification signals that the tire has been tested and proven to perform when winter weather is at its worst.

Engineered with PolarPlus technology, the VikingContact 8 remains pliable in freezing temperatures, helping the tread stay connected to the road. A three-layer sipe design adds more biting edges, improving grip, braking, and handling across snow, slush, and ice. The directional tread pattern is designed to move water and slush away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving overall stability. 

“Winter doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s exactly why we made the VikingContact 8 so versatile,” said Brian Beierwaltes, Head of Marketing US PLT. “With Ice-Grip certification, advanced winter technology, and sizes that fit everything from compact cars to light trucks, it’s the kind of tire today’s market is asking for—reliable, adaptable, and built for confidence in all kinds of winter conditions.”

Continental’s Smart Energy Casing helps reduce rolling resistance, supporting fuel efficiency and extending EV range. A noise-reducing compound and refined tread design contribute to a quieter, more comfortable ride—especially appreciated in electric and premium vehicles.