When temperatures drop below 7°C, your standard tyres lose grip faster than you’d think. Here in Harlow and across Essex, we’ve seen our fair share of icy mornings and unexpected snowfall that can turn your daily commute into a white-knuckle experience. That’s where proper winter tyres make all the difference.
At AutoNet VIP, we’ve been fitting tyres across Harlow, Bishop’s Stortford, Epping and the surrounding areas for years. We’ve seen firsthand how the right winter tyres can transform a car’s handling when the mercury drops. Whether you’re driving a BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, or any other vehicle, winter tyres dramatically improve safety. The Road Safety Foundation’s 2025 data shows that cars with winter tires had 38% fewer winter-related accidents than cars with summer tires when the weather was cold.
Why Winter Tyres Matter for High-End Cars in Essex
You might think winter tyres are only for Scottish Highlands or Alpine ski resorts, but that’s a dangerous misconception. Essex sees temperatures regularly dip below 7°C from November through March. Last winter, the Met Office recorded 47 days where Harlow experienced sub-7°C temperatures during typical commuting hours.
This is particularly crucial for high-performance vehicles like BMWs, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, and Range Rover models. These cars often come with wider, lower-profile tyres optimised for summer performance. Whilst brilliant in warm conditions, these tyres become liability in cold weather. A BMW 3 Series with run-flat summer tyres, for instance, will struggle significantly more than a basic hatchback on winter tyres when faced with icy conditions on the M11.
Winter tyres aren’t just about snow. The rubber compound in these tyres stays flexible in cold weather, providing better grip on cold, wet, and icy roads. Standard tyres harden when it’s cold, reducing their ability to grip the road surface effectively. The difference can be dramatic – stopping distances can be reduced by up to 11 metres when travelling at 30mph, according to TyreSafe’s 2025 winter testing programme.
For luxury and performance vehicles, this becomes even more critical. The additional power and weight of cars like the BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, or Audi Q7 require maximum grip to remain controllable in winter conditions. We’ve seen numerous premium vehicles around Harlow fitted with expensive summer tyres struggling on cold mornings, whilst more modest cars on proper winter tyres navigate confidently.
Our Top 8 Winter Tyres for 2026
1. Michelin Alpin 6
The Michelin Alpin 6 consistently tops our recommendation list, and for good reason. This premium winter tyre delivers exceptional performance on both wet and icy surfaces. The unique EverGrip technology uses expanding rain grooves that widen as the tyre wears, maintaining grip throughout the tyre’s life.
We’ve fitted hundreds of sets across Harlow, including to numerous BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, and Audi A4 models. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Drivers report confidence-inspiring handling on the M11 during freezing rain and remarkable braking performance on icy residential streets. One customer with a BMW 530d reported that these winter tyres transformed his car’s behaviour on cold mornings, describing the difference as “night and day” compared to his previous run-flat summer tyres.
Michelin’s tests show this tyre stops 3 metres shorter on ice compared to its predecessor. For premium vehicles where original equipment tyres can cost £200+ each, the Alpin 6 represents excellent value whilst maintaining the refinement expected by discerning drivers.
Best for: Premium vehicles including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and drivers who prioritise safety above all else.
2. Continental WinterContact TS 870
Continental’s latest winter offering brings German engineering excellence to UK roads. The WinterContact TS 870 features an innovative tread pattern that channels water and slush away efficiently, reducing aquaplaning risk on those horrible slushy days we get around Harlow.
The tyre’s Cool Chili compound maintains flexibility down to -40°C, though thankfully we don’t see those temperatures in Essex! What we do appreciate is how quiet these tyres run on the A414 – they’re noticeably quieter than many competitors, which matters enormously in luxury vehicles where cabin refinement is paramount.
We’ve fitted the WinterContact TS 870 to several Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series vehicles, with owners particularly praising how they maintain the premium driving experience their cars are known for. The tyre doesn’t compromise on comfort or noise levels whilst delivering outstanding winter performance.
Best for: Executive saloons, family cars, and those who cover serious motorway miles in premium vehicles.
3. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3 strikes an excellent balance between performance and price. The V-shaped tread pattern provides strong grip in snow whilst maintaining decent handling on dry roads during those milder winter days.
Testing conducted by Auto Express in early 2025 placed this tyre in the top three for overall winter performance. We’ve fitted these to everything from small hatchbacks to larger SUVs, including Audi Q5s and BMW X3s, and they perform brilliantly across different vehicle types.
The UltraGrip Performance 3 maintains impressive steering precision, which performance car drivers appreciate. A customer with an Audi S4 reported excellent feedback through the steering wheel, allowing confident cornering even on cold, damp B-roads around Epping Forest.
Best for: Versatile performance across all winter conditions, suitable for both everyday cars and performance models.
4. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
The Bridgestone Blizzak range has built a formidable reputation over the years. The LM005 model uses a special 3D zigzag sipe pattern that grips ice particularly effectively. If your commute involves rural roads around Harlow that don’t see gritting lorries, these tyres offer exceptional peace of mind.
Independent testing by What Car? in December 2025 showed the Blizzak LM005 delivered the shortest braking distances on ice among ten competitors tested. That’s the kind of performance that could genuinely save lives during a harsh Essex winter.
We’ve fitted these to several Range Rover Sport and Jaguar F-Pace models. Owners of these heavier SUVs particularly value the Blizzak’s ability to handle the additional weight whilst maintaining control on slippery surfaces. The tyre’s construction is robust enough to cope with the demands of large, powerful vehicles.
Best for: Rural drivers, SUV owners, and those facing the worst winter conditions, including premium 4×4 vehicles.
5. Dunlop Winter Sport 5
Dunlop’s Winter Sport 5 offers premium performance without the premium price tag of some competitors. The tyre features a directional tread pattern optimised for water dispersal, crucial for those heavy winter downpours we experience in Essex.
We’ve installed these on numerous vehicles around Epping and Ongar, including several BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class models, with drivers particularly praising their progressive handling characteristics. You get clear feedback through the steering wheel, making it easier to judge grip levels on questionable surfaces.
The Winter Sport 5 maintains the sporty feel that BMW and other performance marque owners expect from their vehicles. One customer with a BMW 330i M Sport described how these tyres allowed him to continue enjoying his car’s dynamics even during winter months, something he couldn’t do with cheaper winter alternatives he’d previously tried.
Best for: Performance-focused drivers on a sensible budget, particularly those with sporty BMWs, Audis, and hot hatches.
6. Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
For those running sportier vehicles, the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 maintains impressive handling dynamics even in winter conditions. This tyre doesn’t ask you to completely abandon spirited driving just because it’s cold outside.
The asymmetric tread pattern provides excellent dry road performance whilst still delivering when temperatures plummet. Autocar’s 2025 winter tyre test highlighted how this tyre maintained steering precision that many winter tyres sacrifice.
We’ve fitted the Sottozero 3 to numerous high-performance vehicles, including BMW M Sport models, Mercedes-AMG variants, and Porsche Macans. The tyre is approved by many premium manufacturers as original equipment, which speaks volumes about its capabilities. A customer with a BMW 440i praised how the Sottozero 3 allowed confident overtaking on cold A-roads whilst providing reassuring grip when conditions deteriorated.
Best for: Sports cars, performance saloons, and premium vehicles including BMW M Sport, Mercedes-AMG, and Audi S-Line models.
7. Nokian WR Snowproof
Finnish manufacturer Nokian knows winter tyres – they test in Arctic conditions that make Essex winters look tropical. The WR Snowproof brings that Nordic expertise to our relatively mild climate with excellent results.
The tyre’s Aramid fibres provide exceptional durability, and the Cryo Crystal 3 grip particles embedded in the tread bite into ice effectively. Multiple customers have reported these tyres lasting well beyond 25,000 miles, offering excellent long-term value.
For business professionals covering high mileages in executive cars like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, or Audi A6, this durability translates into real savings. One fleet manager from Bishop’s Stortford reported that Nokian winter tyres fitted to his company’s BMW 520d models consistently outlasted competitors whilst maintaining performance throughout their life.
Best for: High-mileage drivers, business users, and those wanting durability alongside winter performance in executive vehicles.
8. Vredestein Wintrac Pro
The Vredestein Wintrac Pro rounds out our list as an excellent all-rounder that punches above its price point. This Dutch-manufactured tyre offers balanced performance across all winter conditions without any glaring weaknesses.
Testing by Tyre Reviews in autumn 2025 showed the Wintrac Pro performing particularly well in wet conditions – important given that wet roads are far more common than snow in Harlow. The tyre also runs quietly, contributing to a comfortable driving experience crucial for luxury vehicle owners.
We’ve fitted these to various premium vehicles, including several Jaguar XE and XF models. The Wintrac Pro maintains the refined, quiet ride quality expected in these cars whilst dramatically improving cold-weather safety. It represents excellent value, particularly for those who want premium winter performance without quite stretching to the most expensive options.
Best for: Budget-conscious drivers wanting solid all-round winter performance, suitable for both mainstream and premium vehicles.
Why BMW and High-End Car Owners Particularly Need Winter Tyres
If you’re driving a premium vehicle around Harlow and Essex, winter tyres become even more critical. Here’s why:
Power and Weight: Modern BMWs, Mercedes, and Audis produce significant power. A BMW 530d outputs over 280bhp, whilst an Mercedes E 300d produces similar figures. This power is useless without grip. We’ve seen expensive rear-wheel-drive BMWs completely helpless on icy hills that front-wheel-drive hatchbacks on winter tyres navigate easily.
Performance Tyres: Many high-end cars come fitted with summer performance tyres optimised for warm, dry conditions. These become dangerously compromised below 7°C. The wider section widths common on premium cars (225mm+) can actually work against you in snow and slush without the correct compound.
Vehicle Value: A new BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class represents a £40,000-£60,000 investment. Winter tyres costing £600-£800 are a tiny fraction of the vehicle’s value but could prevent an accident that writes it off. We’ve fitted winter tyres to numerous Range Rover Sports and BMW X5s where the peace of mind alone justifies the investment.
Driving Dynamics: Premium vehicles are engineered for excellent handling characteristics. Winter tyres allow you to actually use these capabilities safely during cold months. Without them, you’re driving a compromised vehicle.
When Should You Fit Winter Tyres?
The general rule in the UK is to fit winter tyres when temperatures consistently stay below 7°C, typically from late October through to March. Here in Harlow and the surrounding Essex areas, we usually start seeing customers from early November onwards.
Don’t wait for the first snowfall – by then, everyone wants their winter tyres fitted simultaneously, and availability becomes challenging, particularly for the wider, lower-profile sizes fitted to BMWs, Mercedes, and other premium vehicles. Plan ahead, and you’ll have your choice of tyres and convenient fitting times.
For BMW owners, we stock a comprehensive range of winter tyres in common sizes like 225/50 R17 (3 Series), 245/45 R18 (5 Series), and larger sizes for X5 and 7 Series models. Similarly, we maintain stock for Mercedes, Audi, Range Rover, and Jaguar fitments.
The AutoNet VIP Difference for Premium Vehicles
At AutoNet VIP, we offer comprehensive Tyre Supply & Fitting (Budget To Premium Brands) services. Whether you’re after budget-friendly options or premium performance tyres for your high-end vehicle, we stock tyres from all major manufacturers. Our budget to premium tyres are professionally fitted and balanced in our Harlow facility. Correct tyres mean better grip and safety – something we take seriously with every installation, particularly for expensive premium vehicles.
We understand the specific requirements of luxury and performance vehicles. Our technicians are experienced in handling BMWs, Mercedes-Benz, Audis, Range Rovers, Jaguars, and other premium marques. We use proper equipment to avoid damage to alloy wheels, and we’re familiar with the specific torque settings and procedures required for different manufacturers.
We serve Harlow, Bishop’s Stortford, Epping, Stansted Mountfitchet, and surrounding Essex areas. Our experienced technicians ensure your winter tyres are fitted to manufacturer specifications, properly balanced, and your tyre pressures set correctly for winter conditions and your specific vehicle.
Storage and Changeover Services
Many customers ask about storing their summer tyres whilst running winter tyres. We offer convenient seasonal tyre storage, keeping your summer set safe and in good condition ready for spring changeover. This service is particularly popular among our premium vehicle customers who often run their cars on expensive performance summer tyres that need protecting.
For BMW owners with run-flat tyres, we can advise on whether to maintain run-flat specification for winter or switch to standard winter tyres with a proper spare wheel solution. Each approach has merits depending on your specific model and usage patterns.
Come March or April, simply book in, and we’ll swap your tyres over, getting you back onto your summer rubber when temperatures rise consistently above 7°C again. For customers with multiple premium vehicles, we offer fleet storage solutions to manage several sets efficiently.
The Investment Makes Sense
Quality winter tyres represent an investment in safety. A set of four winter tyres typically costs between £300-£600 depending on your vehicle and chosen brand. For premium vehicles with larger wheel sizes, expect to invest £600-£900 for a quality set – still remarkably reasonable considering the improved safety margins.
For context, a single original equipment run-flat tyre for a BMW 5 Series can cost £200-£250. A full set of quality winter tyres often costs less than replacing two damaged summer tyres, and the fact that whilst you’re using winter tyres, your expensive summer tyres aren’t wearing out means the actual cost over time is minimal.
Insurance companies are increasingly recognising this too. Some providers now offer premium discounts for vehicles fitted with winter tyres during winter months, offsetting part of the initial investment. Given that premium vehicle insurance is already expensive, any discount helps.
Making Your Decision
Choosing among these eight excellent winter tyres depends on your specific needs, vehicle type, typical driving conditions, and budget. All eight options we’ve highlighted will significantly outperform summer tyres in cold conditions.
If you’re driving a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Range Rover, Jaguar, or any other premium vehicle, we’d particularly recommend the Michelin Alpin 6, Continental WinterContact TS 870, or Pirelli Sottozero 3. These tyres maintain the refinement and performance characteristics your vehicle was designed to deliver whilst adding crucial winter capability.
If you’re unsure which option suits your circumstances best, our team at AutoNet VIP can provide personalised recommendations based on your vehicle, driving patterns, and budget. We’ve fitted winter tyres to thousands of vehicles across Essex, from basic hatchbacks to high-end BMWs and Mercedes, giving us invaluable real-world insight into what works best in our local conditions for different vehicle types.
Book Your Winter Tyre Fitting Today
Don’t leave your winter preparation until the first frost catches you out. Contact AutoNet VIP today to discuss your winter tyre options. We’ll help you select the perfect tyres for your vehicle and requirements, then fit them professionally at our Harlow facility at a time that suits your schedule.
Winter driving in Essex doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right winter tyres fitted by experienced professionals who understand premium vehicles, you can face whatever weather comes our way with confidence. Your safety and that of your family is worth the investment, whether you’re driving a modest family car or a high-performance BMW M Sport.
Visit us in Harlow or call to book your winter tyre fitting appointment. We’re here to keep you safe on Essex roads all winter long, regardless of what you drive.
