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.
El compuesto de caucho especializado "Nordic" del VikingContact 7, posee aceite canola para mantenerse flexible y adaptarse a condiciones con hielo o nieve, mientras que la presencia de sÃlice activo para tracción, mejora el rendimiento en condiciones mojadas y el frenado. El compuesto de caucho es moldeado en un patrón inteligente con una red de ranuras que crean un camino para evacuar agua y aguanieve por debajo del área de contacto. La razón optimizada de la cantidad de caucho, asegura un alto porcentaje haciendo contacto con la carretera, el cual, proporciona un andar confiado y control a velocidades elevadas. Enlaces sólidos y puentes interconectados en los bloques estabilizan el patrón de la banda de rodamiento, al mismo tiempo de mantener las ranuras abiertas para drenar aguanieve y agua. En el VikingContact 7 las ranuras 3D poseen anchuras diferentes. Mientras que todas las pequeñas ranuras crean bordes adherentes para obtener tracción en superficies resbalosas, las ranuras más anchas crean bolsillos de nieve, para colectar nieve de la superficie y mantenerla en el patrón de la banda de rodamiento, esto, crea tracción de nieve con nieve y aumenta el rendimiento del neumático. Bordes de tracción "Grip Edges" en la parte exterior de los bloques se "agarran" a la nieve y mejoran con efectividad el área de contacto, mejorando, aún más, la tracción sobre superficies con hielo y nieve.
El VikingContact 7 satisface requisitos de la industria, en relación a condiciones de nieve severa, por esta razón, cuenta con el sÃmbolo "montaña de tres picos con copo de nieve", 3PMSF (three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, 3PMSF).
Instale los VikingContact 7 en grupos de cuatro solamente
Specifications shown are as accurate as possible based on the information provided to us by the tire manufacturers. The dimensions reflect average values for tires measured on the specified measuring rim width. Individual tires may vary from data shown.
All tires are subject to continuous development. The tire manufacturers and Tire Rack reserve the right to change product specifications at any time without notice or obligation.
*Although regularly updated, the country of origin for tires may vary from what is shown. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate requests for tires with a specific country of origin.
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Warranty summary for replacement tires purchased on or after 04/01/25(1 of 3)
Manufacturer Special Warranty:60-day or 1st 2/32" trial (2), 3-yr flat changing
Additional Information:(1) Repair voids warranty (2) Whichever comes 1st,purchase 4 exchange for another set of Conti.
Notes
See official manufacturer's warranty brochure for specific details.
New vehicle Original Equipment tire warranties often differ from those covering replacement tires. Consult your vehicle documents to confirm Original Equipment tire warranty coverage.
Tire Rack Test Results Continental VikingContact 7
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.
Feedback consistently shows the Continental VikingContact 7 delivers excellent winter traction, with scores 9-10 in snow and ice performance, earning praise for confident grip in harsh conditions. Wet traction scores 8-10 highlight reliable hydroplaning resistance and stable handling on slippery roads. Dry traction (7-10) and responsive steering suit everyday winter driving, though slightly less emphasized. Comfort receives positive marks (7-10) for a smooth ride, with some noting minimal road noise. Treadwear scores 7-10 suggest durable performance, though longevity varies by driving habits. As a dedicated winter tire, it excels in its core purpose while balancing all-season usability where needed.
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Customers Like:
333 reviews mention "Wet Traction"
316 positive
17 negative
Customers consistently rate wet traction highly, with most scoring 9s and 10s. The VikingContact 7 delivers reliable grip and hydroplaning resistance, excelling in wet winter conditions as expected for its category.
September 24, 2023
(Verified Purchase)
4.4 out of 5
...I like that it can handle slushy and wet roads as well as dry conditions and still provide needed traction for snow...
For a winter tire that can handle dry and cold roads with the occasional snow/ice conditions it is very good for that task. Drove across country in winter and subjected to snow to 70 degree temps and handled it with no problem. Dry handling is very good. Was able to safely drive in white-out conditions as well as packed snow/ice. After saying that it is prudent to stay within the limits of any winter tire for the conditions. They can slide if driving too fast or recklessly. Having had the Michelin X-alpin tire before on a BMX x-1 these are just as good if not better and less costly.
Gas mileage did not drop that much maybe a 1 or 2 mpg decrease so that is ok for its ability to handle snow. Tire wear is good and very minor increase of tire noise and the ride still is comfortable. I like that it can handle slushy and wet roads as well as dry conditions and still provide needed traction for snow. Was able to go thru +10" snow with no problem in my driveway before it got plowed. Impressive.
Vehicle: 2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Miles Driven on Tires: 14,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: TOMS RIVER, NJ Driving Style: Average
+ good ice and soft/hard snow traction + Dry traction up to ~55*F is adequate, beyond that it starts getting soft and squidgy (as expected) + Maintains grip through large puddles + Quiet road noise + Stiff (enough) sidewall
--- have had to replace 3 tires in 3 years 1 puncture and 2 with sidewall bubbles This is likely due to a combo of stiff sidewall, stiff suspension and craterous city streets As a result can't comment much on treadwear
Vehicle: 2021 Hyundai Veloster N Miles Driven on Tires: 11,250 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SOMERVILLE, MA Driving Style: Spirited
Had these tires put on for a 2017 Subaru Forester and they work great! I see a definite improvement in traction vs. the OEM all-seasons. No more sliding around in slush and ice, good grip and stopping power. No hydroplaning so far! Got these while there was a rebate offer so I'm excited to break them in.
Vehicle: 2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium Miles Driven on Tires: 50 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: PHILADELPHIA, PA Driving Style: Average
Customers overwhelmingly rate the VikingContact 7's winter traction as excellent, with most snow and ice grip scores between 9-10. High marks highlight confident handling in deep snow and icy conditions, though a few note slightly lower ice performance. Exceptional winter capability for demanding scenarios.
February 01, 2021
(Verified Purchase)
5 out of 5
...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.
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
...while others are slipping and sliding you'll just drive on by.
Wether for ur truck or car Continental just makes a better tire. It’s the only tires I have for my winter packages. Winter driving is all about the tires, while others are slipping and sliding you’ll just drive on by.
Vehicle: 2018 Kia Stinger GT AWD Miles Driven on Tires: 8,500 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: COPLAY, PA Driving Style: Spirited
Customers consistently rate dry traction highly, with most scoring 9s and 10s. The VikingContact 7 delivers confident grip and responsive handling in dry conditions, excelling as a winter-focused tire.
May 10, 2023
(Verified Purchase)
4.8 out of 5
...even in the dry, these tires are good with low noise and good traction.
This tire performs in the snow the same way summer tires perform in the dry. That is to say traction is excellent. even in the dry, these tires are good with low noise and good traction.
Vehicle: 2012 Mazda Mazda3 5-Door s Grand Touring Miles Driven on Tires: 10,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: WATERTOWN, MA Driving Style: Average
...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...
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
...Additionally the on road manners and dry/clear road performance of VikingContact7 was superior to that of the Blizzak, more responsive and firm on the road...
I've always been a big supporter of running dedicated winter tires especially considering the winters we get in South Bend. Previously, I always used the Bridgestone Blizzak tires, which are always phenomenal in the winter no matter the type of vehicle I have used them on, however this is now my second winter now using the VikingContact7, and I am extremely impressed. I have found their winter (light snow, deep snow, and ice) performance to be very comparable to the Blizzak, while the Blizzak may have a very very slight edge in winter conditions, this was very hard to notice. Additionally the on road manners and dry/clear road performance of VikingContact7 was superior to that of the Blizzak, more responsive and firm on the road. Considering the much more attractive price of the VikingContact7 and the great performance, I will continue to stick with this tire for winter use. Two thumbs up for Continental.
Vehicle: 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4X4 Limited Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SOUTH BEND, IN Driving Style: Spirited
Customers consistently rate the VikingContact 7's comfort as excellent, with most scoring 9s and 10s for smooth ride quality and low noise levels in winter conditions.
December 03, 2024
(Verified Purchase)
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
...Very comfortable, responsive, and confidence inspiring...
These tires have been fantastic in the winter. Very comfortable, responsive, and confidence inspiring. They've excelled at everything from ice autocross on frozen lakes to driving through gnarly blizzards to commuting to work. I would buy these again in a heartbeat. (They replaced a set of Blizzak WS70 tires. Those were also fantastic in the snow/ice, but I think the VikingContacts have been better on dry pavement).
Vehicle: 2003 Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon Miles Driven on Tires: 26,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MADISON, WI Driving Style: Spirited
...These tires have no such start up issue. They are quiet, don't even know they are snow tires...
My previous tires rumbled a bit at the beginning of the trip like they were out of round. These tires have no such start up issue. They are quiet, don't even know they are snow tires. They seem better at handling and present a smoother ride while doing what snow tires are supposed to do - give traction in snow.
Vehicle: 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited Miles Driven on Tires: 500 Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway Location: NEW MEADOWS, ID Driving Style: Easy Going
Most customers rate treadwear between 8-10, highlighting excellent durability in winter conditions. High scores emphasize long-lasting performance, with many noting consistent wear even through harsh winter use.
February 09, 2023
(Verified Purchase)
3.9 out of 5
...The tire is very compliant and has good road manners and great tread wear, couldn't ask for much more at this price point.
Viking 7s are the best-performance snow tire next to Michilens cross climate 2s. The tire is very compliant and has good road manners and great tread wear, couldn't ask for much more at this price point.
Vehicle: 2020 Honda Accord 2.0T Touring Miles Driven on Tires: 10,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: PINGREE GROVE, IL Driving Style: Spirited
...Wear after one winter looks good, about 5000 miles. Looks like 5 winters easy...
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
These tires provide amazing performance on fresh snow, packed roads, and ice. We will continue to have snow tires in the future...
These are the first set of snow tires I have owned. Normally I have only had all season tires on my cars. These tires provide amazing performance on fresh snow, packed roads, and ice. We will continue to have snow tires in the future. There was no decrease in ride performance or noise level. Love these tires and would buy them again.
Vehicle: 2017 Lincoln MKZ 2.0T AWD Miles Driven on Tires: 9,300 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: EDWARDSBURG, MI Driving Style: Average
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.Â
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.
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.
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.
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