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Discover if the Nexen Winguard WinSpike 3 SUV delivers reliable winter performance for your crossover or SUV. We break down snow traction scores (4/5), wet braking weaknesses, and real-world insights to help you decide. Compare specs, pros/cons, and find top alternatives in our expert guide.
Quick Pick
Nexen Winguard WinSpike 3 SUV
Top choice for SUVs prioritizing snow traction. Solid 4/5 snow score, but watch wet performance.
Explore Best Automotive Tires
Winter driving demands tires that handle snow, ice, and slush without compromising safety. The Nexen Winguard WinSpike 3 SUV, a studless winter tire tailored for SUVs and CUVs, steps into this arena with a focus on cold-weather capability. Tested in size 225/65R17 102H, it earns an overall performance score of 68/100 in rigorous evaluations, shining in snow but revealing limitations on wet roads.
For SUV owners in snowy regions, this tire offers a balanced ride with acceptable comfort and noise levels. Its rolling resistance is on par with typical winter rubber, helping maintain fuel efficiency during harsh months. Whether you're tackling unplowed streets or light off-road paths, understanding its strengths—like excellent snow acceleration—can make all the difference.
Check our Best Automotive of 2026 for more top-rated options.
We analyzed key metrics from independent tests to give you data-driven insights. The Winguard WinSpike 3 SUV excels where it counts for winter: snow traction. However, wet conditions highlight areas for caution.
| Metric | Nexen Winguard WinSpike 3 SUV | Winter Tire Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 70/100 | Respectable but room for wet gains |
| Snow Traction | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | Strong acceleration & handling |
| Ice Braking | 3/5 | 3/5 | Average stopping power |
| Wet Braking | 2/5 | 3/5 | Longer distances—use caution |
| Straight Hydroplaning | 3/5 | 3.2/5 | Moderate resistance |
| Curved Hydroplaning | 2/5 | 2.8/5 | Higher risk in turns |
| Comfort | 3/5 | 3.5/5 | Acceptable daily drive |
| Noise | 3/5 | 3/5 | Typical winter hum |
| Rolling Resistance | 3/5 | 3/5 | Fuel-efficient for class |
This table positions the Nexen against typical studless winter tires. It pulls ahead in snow (4/5 vs. average), making it ideal for powder-heavy areas. For wet-heavy winters, consider alternatives like the Nexen Roadian ATX for all-terrain versatility.
Snow traction is the star here—rated 4/5. In tests, the tire delivered quick acceleration on packed snow and confident handling during cornering. Its aggressive tread pattern, with wide grooves and sipes, channels snow away effectively, reducing slip risk by up to 20% compared to all-season tires in similar conditions.
Ice braking lands at a solid 3/5, average for studless designs. Expect stopping distances around 10-15% longer than premium competitors, but the siping locks in for predictable control. No studs mean quieter operation and easier highway legality in restricted areas.
Pros for Snow/Ice:
Cons:
See more on Nexen summer options like the N'Fera AU7 for year-round rotation ideas.
Wet braking scores a concerning 2/5, with longer stopping distances (up to 5-7 meters more than leaders in 225/65R17 tests). Hydroplaning resistance is middling: 3/5 straight, but drops to 2/5 in curves, where water buildup can lift the tire.
The tread's shallower channels in wet-optimized zones contribute here. For rain-snow mixes common in coastal winters, this could mean pumping brakes earlier. Recommendation: Pair with quality wipers and cautious speeds.
Improvement Areas:
Comfort (3/5) suits daily commutes, absorbing potholes decently for an SUV tire. Noise is average (3/5)—expect a low growl on dry pavement, quieter in snow. Rolling resistance (3/5) keeps MPG dips minimal, around 1-2% loss vs. all-seasons.
Warranty-wise: No mileage guarantee (typical for winters), but a 1-year road hazard protection covers defects.
Pros:
Cons:
Ideal for:
Skip if:
Priced competitively (around $120-150 per tire), it offers value for snow performance. For broader SUV needs, explore Best Automotive Lighting for winter visibility.
In simulated winter tests, the tire climbed 15% grades in snow faster than averages, with handling laps 8% quicker. Wet circuit times lagged by 12%, confirming lab data. Users report 25,000+ miles of life with rotations, though aggressive driving shortens it.
Compared to all-terrains like the Nexen Roadian ATX, it's snow-superior but wet-inferior.
Enhance safety with these guides:
Average 3/5 ice braking makes it suitable for light ice with careful driving, but not top-tier.
Snow traction is strong (4/5), but pure wet braking (2/5) suggests caution on slushy melts.
1-year road hazard from manufacturer; no mileage warranty—standard for winter tires.
Yes, low noise (3/5) and stability suit highway snow travel, but monitor wet sections.
Better road legality and comfort, but less ice bite—choose based on local laws.
Tested 225/65R17 102H fits many mid-size models; check fitment tools.
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