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Continental VikingContact 7
  • Continental VikingContact 7
  • Continental VikingContact 7
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Continental VikingContact 7 Callouts

The VikingContact 7 is Continental's Studless Ice & Snow winter tire developed for drivers of sedans, crossovers, coupes and minivans looking for enhanced winter confidence through advanced technology. Designed to deliver excellent traction in wintertime slush, snow and ice plus reliable wet performance and secure dry-road handling, the VikingContact 7 is optimized for a variety of winter weather.

The specialized Nordic compound of the VikingContact 7 utilizes canola oil to remain flexible and adapt to snowy or icy conditions, and active grip silica enhances wet performance and braking. The compound is molded into an intelligent pattern with a groove network designed to create a direct path to evacuate water and slush from beneath the contact patch. The optimized void ratio ensures there is always a high volume of rubber on the road for confident tracking and high-speed control. Solid linkages and special interlocked block bridges stabilize the tread pattern while also keeping grooves open for water and slush drainage. The VikingContact 7's 3D sipes feature varying thicknesses. While all the sipes create biting edges for grip in slippery conditions, the wider sipes form snow pockets that collect snow from the surface and hold it in the pattern, creating snow-to-snow traction for improved performance. Grip Edges on the outside of the tread blocks grab into snow and effectively increase the contact area of the tire, further enhancing traction on snow- and ice-covered roads.

VikingContact 7 Studless Ice & Snow tires meet the industry's severe snow service requirements and are branded with the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.

Install VikingContact 7 tires in sets of four only.

Related Information: What is the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF)?

Tire Rack Test Results Continental VikingContact 7

Testing Studless Ice & Snow Winter Tires: Continental VikingContact 7 (1:55)

The Continental VikingContact 7 has impressed our testers before, so we set out to see if it still has the right mix of performance to compete with other popular tires in the category.

Read the Full Test Report

Ratings Charts & Reviews Continental VikingContact 7

Tire Category: Studless Ice & Snow

Consumer Surveys

 
Best in Category
Miles Reported
Recommended
Treadwear
Continental VikingContact 7
Excellent
98%
2.5M
8.4 - Good
8.7 - Excellent
8.7 Hydroplaning Resistance
8.7 Wet Traction
8.7 - Excellent
8.6 Corner Stability
8.8 Dry Traction
8.6 Steering Response
8.8 - Excellent
9.1 Light Snow Traction
8.8 Deep Snow Traction
8.4 Ice Traction
8.9 - Excellent
9.1 Ride Quality
8.7 Noise
8.5 - Good

Customers Say

Customer surveys indicate the Continental VikingContact 7 delivers outstanding winter performance, with scores of 9-10 for snow and ice traction, along with strong deep-snow capability. Wet traction and hydroplaning resistance earn consistent 8-10 ratings, providing reliable grip in slushy or rainy conditions. Dry traction and steering responsiveness are praised as confident, with most scores in the 8-10 range. Comfort receives high marks for a smooth, quiet ride despite winter-focused design. Treadwear feedback is positive overall, with many noting satisfactory longevity for a winter tire, though a few mention faster wear in harsh conditions. Drivers highlight its balanced performance across winter-specific needs.

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Customers Like:

330 customers mention "Wet Traction"

  • 313 positive
  • 17 negative

Customers praise the VikingContact 7's excellent wet traction, with most scoring 9s and 10s. Winter drivers report confident grip and reliable hydroplaning resistance, though some note occasional 7s. Performance aligns well with winter tire expectations for secure wet-weather handling.

December 22, 2020

N/A out of 5 Star Rating
Not Yet Rated

Although only 500 miles on the tires, I've driven through all types of weather so far; in dry, in wet, and in snow, in slush, and in ice from the recent Nor'Easter on 12/16/2020...

Although only 500 miles on the tires, I've driven through all types of weather so far; dry, wet, and snow, slush, and ice from the recent Nor'Easter on 12/16/2020. I drive 100 miles a day (mostly highway) and the biggest observation so far is how they don't sound or feel like typical snow tires. I expected typical snow tire tread howl but these are as very quiet on the highway. By far the quietest snow tire I've had. They also handle about the same as the all seasons, and don't feel mushy or sloppy. Steering on the highway is stable and I often forget that I have snow tires on. No exaggeration. Snow and ice traction is as good as expected and braking is very good. I tested that a few times and they performed well. So far I'm impressed and have no regrets.

Vehicle: 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4X4 Limited
Miles Driven on Tires: 500
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: BALDWINSVILLE, NY
Driving Style: Average
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August 16, 2020 (Verified Purchase)

4.9 out of 5 Star Rating
4.9 out of 5

...My wife opted to run them year-round and they have been great for wet performance...

Fantastic in the snow and ice. Easily as good as the Hakkapeliittas that my parents run, and better snow traction and handling than the X-Ice I've got on my STi for my current winter setup. Great traction on any surface (asphalt, gravel) and snow/ice here in the hilly part of MN we have not had any problem. My wife opted to run them year-round and they have been great for wet performance. Definitely would buy again!

Vehicle: 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited
Miles Driven on Tires: 6,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: DULUTH, MN
Driving Style: Spirited
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December 02, 2020 (Verified Purchase)

N/A out of 5 Star Rating
Not Yet Rated

...Wet traction is fine, and the tires seem to do well in both dry snow and the wet slushy snow that's most common in my area. In fact, they're a lot better in the slush than the Michelins and right on par with the Nokians...

Bought snow tires late in the season last year, and this was one of the only options available in the size to fit my Miata. On a prior Miata, I had run Michelin X-ice III tires and Nokian Hakkapelliitta tires and these perform on par with those much more expensive snow tires for half the price. Dry traction is acceptable for a snow tire and obviously not in the same league as the summer performance tires that come on the car from the factory. Wet traction is fine, and the tires seem to do well in both dry snow and the wet slushy snow that's most common in my area. In fact, they're a lot better in the slush than the Michelins I used to run and right on par with the Nokians. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a budget snow tire that isn't looking for summer-like dry road traction.

Vehicle: 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,500
Driving Conditions: Mostly City
Location: CHELMSFORD, MA
Driving Style: Spirited
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310 customers mention "Winter Traction"

  • 293 positive
  • 17 negative

Customers consistently praise the VikingContact 7's winter traction, with most snow and deep snow scores at 9-10. Ice traction also excels, though a few ratings dip to 7-8, reflecting excellent grip in harsh conditions.

February 18, 2020

3.9 out of 5 Star Rating
3.9 out of 5

...They are very quiet and composed on dry pavement, yet grip tenaciously in the snow and ice...

Exceptionally refined modern winter tire. They are very quiet and composed on dry pavement, yet grip tenaciously in the snow and ice.

They track well and don't totally numb the steering. I'm very impressed overall and feel like I made the right choice over the competitors.

I've tried General Altimax, Bridgestone Blizzak and Michelin Xice. These are my favorite so far and I have no hesitation to recommend them to friends and family.

Vehicle: 2018 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,500
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: GILFORD, NH
Driving Style: Average
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November 13, 2019

4.5 out of 5 Star Rating
4.5 out of 5

...Braking on snow and hard packed snow was much better than any tire I've had before. Excellent handling in snow and on ice...

Best snow tire I've had. Braking on snow and hard packed snow was much better than any tire I've had before. Excellent handling in snow and on ice. On dry or wet roads it performs as good as most all season tires I've had. This is an excellent snow tire. I di a lot of research and the Vikings7 had fantastic reviews and test results. This bears out in practice as these tires really perform well in all wintery conditions.

Vehicle: 2017 Infiniti Q50S Red Sport 400 AWD
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: BRECHIN, ON
Driving Style: Spirited
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January 04, 2020 (Verified Purchase)

5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

Best snow tire I have ever purchased. Drives just like any great tire but is terrific in snow and ice...

Best snow tire I have ever purchased. Drives just like any great tire but is terrific in snow and ice. Highly recommended

Vehicle: 2015 Chrysler Town and Country Touring
Miles Driven on Tires: 3,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: SCHOHARIE, NY
Driving Style: Average
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344 customers mention "Dry Traction"

  • 321 positive
  • 23 negative

Customers consistently rate dry traction highly with most scores 8-10, highlighting confident handling and reliable grip. Excellent dry performance complements its winter-focused design, exceeding expectations for cold-weather traction.

February 01, 2021 (Verified Purchase)

5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

...We didn't have any winter conditions for the first 3 weeks they were on the car, but grip on cold dry and cold wet pavement was remarkable, probably on par with some of my better performance summer tires, and steering response is excellent.

I bought these after previously using the two prior generations of the Bridgestone Blizzak. When the latest Blizzaks required replacement, I discovered that they had gone to yet a third generation. The Vikings were significantly less expensive, and the early reviews were positive, so I decided to give them a try. In short, these tires are impressive. We didn't have any winter conditions for the first 3 weeks they were on the car, but grip on cold dry and cold wet pavement was remarkable, probably on par with some of my better performance summer tires, and steering response is excellent. Even more surprising, ride comfort is almost silky and the noise level is very low (better than my summer tires) and unbelievable for a dedicated winter tire. Far better than either of the Blizzak sets I had previously in all these parameters. We just had a significant snowstorm, with sleet/freezing rain in addition, and the Vikings have proven as least as good as the Blizzaks. No trouble climbing decent grades with about six inches of unplowed snow. Also worked well on plowed roads coated with a greasy layer of slush/sleet. Very surefooted.

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Equinox AWD LT
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,300
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: IJAMSVILLE, MD
Driving Style: Spirited
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August 29, 2022 (Verified Purchase)

4 out of 5 Star Rating
4 out of 5

...Dry handling isn't quite up to the factory tires, but I didn't expect it to be as good. For snow tires the dry and wet handling is good...

Fantastic snow tires. The traction in light to deep snow on my CX-5 is amazing. Dry handling isn't quite up to the factory tires, but I didn't expect it to be as good. For snow tires the dry and wet handling is good. Wear after one winter looks good, about 5000 miles. Looks like 5 winters easy. I'd definitely recommend these snow tires. Great confidence and control in all types of upstate NY weather.

Vehicle: 2021 Mazda CX-5 AWD
Miles Driven on Tires: 5,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: ROCHESTER, NY
Driving Style: Spirited
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December 01, 2024 (Verified Purchase)

N/A out of 5 Star Rating
Not Yet Rated

...Now, I have no idea how they'll do in the wet or snow, but the first thing I need, dry traction in cold weather, it has like zero to none... This morning it was 30 degrees F and dry, and I saw traction control kick in twice when I did some spirited cornering (nothing crazy) on the off/on ramps...

I’ve had these snow tires for 24 hours. They may literally be the worst snow tires I’ve ever put on my car. Now, I have no idea how they’ll do in the wet or snow, but the first thing I need, dry traction in cold weather, it has like zero to none. It is definitely possible that this wire was just the total incorrect recommendation by the sales manager at Discount, but I would never recommend this tire to anyone. This morning it was 30 degrees F and dry, and I saw traction control kick in twice when I did some spirited cornering (nothing crazy) on the off/on ramps. I had better come grip with my summer performance tires. Seriously, if you drive anything above slow and slower, do not get these tires.

Vehicle: 2024 Volkswagen Golf R
Miles Driven on Tires: 200
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: IRWIN, PA
Driving Style: Spirited
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345 customers mention "Ride Quality"

  • 341 positive
  • 4 negative

Customers consistently rate comfort as excellent, with most scoring 9s and 10s for smooth ride quality and low noise levels, even in harsh winter conditions.

December 03, 2024 (Verified Purchase)

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

...Comfortable ride and responsive. Noise is minimal considering its a snow tire.

Solid option for the snow. Provides ample traction and response. Comfortable ride and responsive. Noise is minimal considering its a snow tire.

Vehicle: 2018 Ford EcoSport 4WD Titanium
Miles Driven on Tires: 25,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: STROUDSBURG, PA
Driving Style: Spirited
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September 15, 2020 (Verified Purchase)

4.1 out of 5 Star Rating
4.1 out of 5

...Quiet- The second quietest tire I've ever had on a car and they remained fairly quiet even as they wore down. They also kept impact noise from expansion and the ever popular tar joints down...

Everything written here is compared with all of the many different tires I've used over the last 13 years.

All around Pro's:
Long lasting- Over 50,000 miles were put on the current set, with enough tread left to make it another 15,000 or so without snow.

Quiet- The second quietest tire I've ever had on a car and they remained fairly quiet even as they wore down. They also kept impact noise from expansion and the ever popular tar joints down.

Efficient- 27 or 28 mpg city biased, and 31-34 mpg highway biased.

Good in the rain- Wet braking was stable and predictable. No huge puddle planing problems (a serious concerning on US 422 in the rain).

Good Stability- Under normal driving conditions, these tires exhibit great braking distances, good vertical ride motion control and for as tall a sidewall as was being used, good cornering stability.

All around Con's:
Overall braking feel- These tires, while great under braking, do end up feeling a bit squishier and require the use of slightly longer brake pedal travel.

Side to side ride- The tread wall control over rougher pavement can be a bit sloppy at times. Higher pressures do help a bit.

Car specific notes: The buffeting from large square shaped vehicles that I experience at highway speeds with my Impreza hatch are definitely noticeable with these tires, though it is not as unsettling as some other tires that I've had on it. Dunlop Wintersport 4d's or the oem avid s30d's for example. They do do well with snowy, icy, poorly maintained, and relatively steep dirt driveways as well as steep paved driveways with a good coating(1"+). All traction management systems play nice with these tires.

I have already purchased another set of these tires as of 9/15/2020 and I would definitely recommend them for daily winter use.

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru Impreza 2.0i 5-Door Premium
Miles Driven on Tires: 50,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: READING, PA
Driving Style: Spirited
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January 15, 2025 (Verified Purchase)

4.8 out of 5 Star Rating
4.8 out of 5

...The ride comfort, noise levels, and steering feel are remarkably similar to the OE tires on this vehicle. For road manners this is the best winter tire I have ever experienced, with negligible compromise in comfort or steering precision...

I'm very happy with the VikingContact 7 on the F-150. The ride comfort, noise levels, and steering feel are remarkably similar to the OE tires on this vehicle. For road manners this is the best winter tire I have ever experienced, with negligible compromise in comfort or steering precision.

Snow traction is excellent as expected and these tires feel exceptionally stable with none of the squirm on center I have experienced on other snow tires in this size. Traction is good enough I have not needed to engage 4WD at all so far this winter.

Compared to winter tires I've used on previous vehicles these also have the best wet grip, providing confident handling in changing road conditions. Overall I'm very happy with this tire selection.

Vehicle: 2024 Ford F150 4WD SuperCrew 265/70-17 or 275/65-18
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,800
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: NEW BUFFALO, MI
Driving Style: Average
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236 customers mention "Treadwear"

  • 218 positive
  • 18 negative

Customers consistently praise the VikingContact 7's treadwear, with most scoring 9s and 10s for excellent winter performance and long-lasting tread life. Some 7-8 ratings still reflect reliable wear in harsh conditions.

March 09, 2021 (Verified Purchase)

4.8 out of 5 Star Rating
4.8 out of 5

I now have one Wisconsin winter on these tires after installing them in October, 2020... I've put nearly 5K miles on them in about 5 months...

I now have one Wisconsin winter on these tires after installing them in October, 2020. It's early March now and the snow is melting, so I'll summarize my experience. Don't expect any further "surprises". Still, you never know...
We live in southern Wisconsin, but are building a house in northern Wisconsin, so I've put nearly 5K miles on them in about 5 months. Snow and mud (took them north hunting once, too) were no problem. When we started to get some real snow, both north and south, I found myself trying to see what the tires could handle. I could accelerate pretty hard and corner relatively briskly in the Alltrack without slipping. Braking was good, too. I can't really say it was like driving on dry pavement, but it seemed like it, and exceeded my expectations, and that's based on other winter tires on our cars over the years. These tires on a VW Alltrack are a terrific combination!
Would I purchase these tires again? I already did - bought them for my wife's Subaru Forester. Guess I'll also put in a review for that car and our experiences with it (spoiler alert - also good).

Vehicle: 2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Miles Driven on Tires: 4,900
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: ELKHORN, WI
Driving Style: Spirited
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December 01, 2023 (Verified Purchase)

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

These tires have been great. It's early in the winter season so time will tell how they perform...

These tires have been great. It’s early in the winter season so time will tell how they perform but with the 4” we’ve gotten to date, the car handled as well as on dry pavement.

Vehicle: 2012 Audi S5 Cabriolet Premium Plus
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: CLEVELAND, OH
Driving Style: Spirited
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December 29, 2022 (Verified Purchase)

4.5 out of 5 Star Rating
4.5 out of 5

Have put 6000 miles on these tires... Will purchase these tires again.

Have put 6000 miles on these tires. Purchased them specifically for winter driving conditions and I am very pleased with the choice. The RAV handles better in wet and snow conditions and these tires are quiet without a loss of mpg that I anticipated. I have had Blizzak's and Michelin XIce tires but I prefer the Continentals to either of the previous brand. I truly think that the Conti's are a better match for how we operate the RAV. Will purchase these tires again.

Vehicle: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE
Miles Driven on Tires: 6,250
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: CHAMBERSBURG, PA
Driving Style: Average
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Consumer Reviews

Media Gallery

Experience the Continental VikingContact 7 (00:55)

In 1972, Continental introduced the ContiContact studless winter tire, bringing a new level of safety to the road. Fast forward to today, and the VikingContact 7 carries on that legacy as Continental’s flagship Studless Ice & Snow tire. 

Testing Studless Ice & Snow Winter Tires: Continental VikingContact 7 (1:55)

The Continental VikingContact 7 has impressed our testers before, so we set out to see if it still has the right mix of performance to compete with other popular tires in the category.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Studless Ice & Snow Tires 2020: Continental VikingContact 7 (1:47)

The Continental VikingContact 7 has established a strong footing in North America after coming over from the European market and hopes to continue to compete with the latest and greatest.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Studless Ice & Snow Tires on the Ice and Dry Roads 2019: Continental VikingContact 7 (02:01)

The VikingContact line has an excellent reputation in Europe, and the 7th-generation tire is the first to come to North America. We put that reputation to the test against some of the newest and best.

Read the Full Test Report

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