Continental TrueContact Tour Review: Excellent All-Season Grand Touring Tire

Continental is a leading global tire manufacturer that has been engineering high-performance tires for over 145 years.

Founded in Hanover, Germany in 1871, Continental is focused on delivering advanced automotive technology and precise German engineering across its entire product line.

The company’s passion for innovation has led to numerous industry firsts, including manufacturing the first vehicle tires with a tread pattern in 1904, the first detachable car wheels in 1908, and the first tubeless bicycle tires in 1943.

Today, Continental continues this legacy of innovation by engineering tires that balance safety, fuel efficiency, comfort, and handling across diverse driving conditions.

Continental’s TrueContact Tour tire is an all-season grand touring tire designed for a premium driving experience.

As part of the company’s TrueContact line of tires, the TrueContact Tour focuses on providing responsive handling, a smooth, quiet ride, and all-season traction.

TrueContact Tour Tire Overview

The Continental TrueContact Tour is an all-season grand touring tire designed for crossover and midsize sedan vehicles.

This tire aims to provide a smooth, comfortable ride along with confident wet and dry handling.

Some of the key features and benefits of the TrueContact Tour tire include:

• All-season performance – The tread pattern and compound are designed to perform well year-round in a variety of weather conditions including dry, wet, light snow. Provides traction, handling and braking in all four seasons.
• Comfortable ride – Computer-optimized tread design and proprietary Comfort Ride Technology help absorb vibrations and impacts from the road to provide a smoother, quieter ride.
• Wet weather handling – The asymmetric tread pattern with sweeping circumferential grooves efficiently channels water away for excellent grip and hydroplaning resistance on wet roads.
• Dry weather traction – Stable center rib combined with independent intermediate tread blocks enhance handling and cornering grip on dry pavement.
• Light snow performance – The tire can handle light snow and icy conditions thanks to zig-zag sipes, multiple lateral grooves and chamfered tread blocks.
• Fuel efficiency – Low rolling resistance tread compound helps maximize fuel economy.

Overall, the Continental TrueContact Tour is designed to deliver a balanced, comfortable ride along with reliable all-season traction and handling.

Key highlights are its wet weather capabilities, smooth ride quality and improved fuel efficiency.

List of Other Continental Tire Reviews

If you’re interested in exploring other Continental tire options, check out our comprehensive reviews of their various offerings. Continental’s commitment to quality and performance shines through in their diverse range of tires.

• Continental Extreme Contact Sport Review
• Continental Viking Contact 7 Review
• Continental Pure Contact LS Review
• Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review
• Continental Control Contact Sport SRS+ Review
• Continental TrueContact Tour Review

Tread and Traction

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire features an asymmetric tread design optimized for responsive handling and dry traction.

The outside shoulder has a higher tread depth and more aggressive tread blocks for enhanced cornering grip and stability.

The inside shoulder has shorter tread blocks to reduce noise on the highway.

Smaller lateral grooves help channel water out from under the tread to resist hydroplaning, while continuous center ribs promote straight line stability.

The tread compound uses advanced silica technology for durability and wet braking traction.

Independent tests show the TrueContact Tour stops shorter in wet conditions than leading competitors.

The asymmetric non-directional tread is designed to deliver a dynamic dry handling experience.

The stiffer outside shoulder blocks engage during cornering while the more flexible inside blocks enhance ride comfort.

Continental engineers focused on maximizing grip and stability when navigating highway ramps and curvy roads.

Ride Comfort of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tires perform very well when it comes to ride comfort. They absorb bumps and potholes smoothly thanks to their all-season touring tread design.

Vibration levels are low, even at highway speeds, making for a quiet and relaxed ride.

The tires do not generate a lot of road noise compared to more aggressive all-season or summer tires.

You’ll enjoy conversing with passengers or listening to music without having to turn up the volume.

The tires have a stiff sidewall that resists flexing over bumps, complementing the tread to deliver a composed and comfortable ride.

Small imperfections in the road are nicely filtered out before reaching the cabin. Larger bumps and potholes are also handled adeptly, with the tires rounding off sharp edges.

Overall, the Continental TrueContact Tour tires excel in the comfort department. They deliver a smooth and quiet ride that isolates passengers from road imperfections.

The tires absorb vibrations and impacts responsively, while keeping noise to a minimum.

If you prioritize comfort in an all-season touring tire, the TrueContact Tour is an excellent choice.

Handling of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire provides precise and responsive handling capabilities.

The optimized tread design and silica-enhanced tread compound give these tires excellent grip and control when cornering, allowing drivers to navigate turns smoothly and predictably.

These tires feel very connected to the road, with minimal lag time between inputs from the steering wheel to the tires’ response.

The tread blocks remain flexible even during tighter turns, maximizing the contact patch and promoting even wear across the tread.

This stable tread contact results in balanced handling without sudden loss of grip mid-corner.

Drivers report a sense of confidence during routine maneuvers like highway merging or exit ramps thanks to the TrueContact Tour’s composure at speed.

The tires resist understeer and oversteer, enabling the vehicle to hold the intended line through a corner.

The gentle transitional breakaway at the limit also provides sufficient warning and control if pushed past ideal grip levels.

Overall, the Continental TrueContact Tour delivers direct, nimble handling for a very intuitive and engaging driving experience.

The tires excel at communication between road and driver, translating inputs precisely for a satisfying sense of control behind the wheel.

This exemplary handling boosts driving enjoyment on both everyday commutes and weekend escapades.

Wet Weather Performance of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire performs very well in wet weather conditions thanks to its tread design and compound.

The asymmetric tread pattern with larger outside shoulder blocks and inboard tread sipes help resist hydroplaning and maintain grip on wet roads.

Independent tests show the TrueContact Tour stops shorter on wet pavement compared to leading competitors, providing excellent wet braking and handling confidence.

The silica-enhanced tread compound maintains traction even as the tread wears. This is critical for wet weather braking, as worn tires tend to hydroplane easier.

The tire’s wide circumferential grooves quickly channel water out from under the tread, preventing aquaplaning at highway speeds.

The continuous center rib bite also enhances wet weather handling precision.

Overall, drivers report feeling in control on rainy streets and highways, with responsive steering and braking.

For drivers in areas with frequent rainfall, the Continental TrueContact Tour delivers reliable wet traction and hydroplaning resistance exceeding all-season tire competitors.

The advanced tread design and compound ensure you stay confidently in control behind the wheel in the rain.

Dry Weather Performance of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tires excel in dry weather conditions thanks to their responsive handling and short braking distances on dry pavement.

The symmetric tread pattern features continuous center ribs that provide consistent tracking and handling when driving straight down dry roads.

The independent tread blocks on the outside shoulders allow the tires to grip the road surface and make quick direction changes without scrubbing.

Drivers report very responsive and precise steering inputs when testing these tires in dry environments.

The tires feel planted during cornering, with no squirming or wandering detected.

The stiff sidewalls and accurate steering response give drivers a lot of confidence to push the handling limits when conditions are ideal.

Braking distances are short for an all-season grand touring tire, both in a straight line and when braking during turns.

The tires bite into the dry pavement effectively during sudden stops.

Anti-lock braking systems remain quiet and allow the tires to maximize grip when used in panic braking situations on dry roads.

The Continental TrueContact Tour provides excellent dry grip and traction to keep you in control in sunny, warm weather.

Drivers praise the tires for their composure and responsiveness when roads are dry.

The steering and braking capabilities ensure safe operation and allow you to enjoy the precise handling character of these grand touring tires.

Snow and Winter Performance of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire performs very well in snow and icy winter conditions thanks to its asymmetric tread design and biting edges.

The outside shoulder features larger blocks and edges for digging into snow and slush.

The inside shoulder has more sipes and smaller blocks to provide grip on ice.

Together this asymmetric tread provides excellent snow and ice traction. The tire maintains control even during sudden turns or braking on snow-covered roads.

The ample tread depth also allows the tire to plow through several inches of fresh snow with ease.

Handling remains confident and predictable through wintery conditions. The tire resists hydroplaning on wet snow and slush.

The silica tread compound provides grip down to very cold temperatures while limiting wheel slip.

Overall the TrueContact Tour delivers a composed, stable ride on snowy roads and is among the top touring tires for winter weather performance.

Treadwear and Durability

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire has excellent treadwear and durability, making it a long-lasting tire choice.

Independent testing shows the TrueContact Tour achieving upwards of 60,000 miles before needing replacement, even with aggressive driving.

The tire tread is designed for longevity, with a symmetrical tread pattern that allows for even wear as the miles add up.

The pattern has continuous center ribs and intermediate tread blocks that distribute wear evenly across the tire’s surface.

Owners of the TrueContact Tour report getting over 50,000 miles on their sets with normal driving conditions, while those pushing their tires harder see around 40,000-45,000 miles.

Either way, this is an impressive tread life from an ultra high performance all-season tire.

Even in harsh climates with extreme temperatures, the tread compound holds up well against wear.

The silica-enhanced tread compound adds to the tire’s durability and resilience.

Silica helps maintain the tread’s flexibility and grip as the tire ages, rather than having the rubber harden over time.

This allows the tire to retain more of its performance for longer.

Overall, drivers praise the Continental TrueContact Tour as having one of the longest treadwear warranties and lifespans in its category.

For those wanting a high-performance tire that can go the distance without frequent replacement, the TrueContact Tour is an excellent choice.

The tread design and durable materials allow this tire to achieve an impressive service life.

Continental TrueContact Tour Pros and Cons

Here are the pros and cons of the Continental TrueContact Tour tire to help you make an informed decision when considering this tire for your vehicle:

Testing and Ratings of Continental TrueContact Tour

The Continental TrueContact Tour tire has received positive reviews and high ratings from industry experts.

Professional test drivers praise the tire’s all-season performance, grip, and durability.

• TireRack conducted extensive wet and dry braking tests, giving the TrueContact Tour an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5. Testers remarked at the tire’s strong braking grip and short stopping distances on dry and wet roads.
• The TrueContact Tour earned a treadwear rating of 560 from Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG), which evaluates treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. This treadwear score indicates long tread life and durability.
• Consumer Reports rated the Continental TrueContact Tour as one of the “Best All-Season Tires” with excellent scores for wet and dry handling. Testers noted responsiveness, balanced grip, and low rolling resistance.
• Car and Driver included the TrueContact Tour in their list of “Best All-Season Tires” with an 8.5 out of 10 rating. Their testing yielded impressive results for hydroplaning resistance, handling, braking, and cornering on wet and dry surfaces.
• Motor Trend recommends the Continental TrueContact Tour as a high-performing tire that “delivers responsive handling and a refined ride.”
• The TrueContact Tour meets the 3PMSF certification for severe snow conditions, indicating strong winter grip and traction.

Overall, expert testing shows the Continental TrueContact Tour provides excellent all-season performance, long treadwear, and impressive ratings across wet, dry, and winter driving conditions.

Primary Uses of Continental TrueContact Tour Tire

In our assessment of the Continental TrueContact Tour tire, we delve into its primary functions as a standout all-season tire option.

Engineered for passenger vehicles such as sedans, crossover models, and minivans, the Continental TrueContact Tour shines in everyday driving under a plethora of weather scenarios.

This includes the warm sunshine of summer, the unpredictability of rainy days, and the challenges of mild winter conditions.

At its core, this tire is formulated for:

• Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: By integrating superior technology, it achieves noteworthy fuel savings without sacrificing performance.
• Extended Tread Life: Durability is a hallmark, ensuring long-term use and value over many miles.
• Comfort-Oriented Ride: Designed to soak up road imperfections, it promises a smooth journey, whether it’s city errands or cross-country expeditions.

Primarily, it’s a champion on paved urban roads and highways, positioning itself as the go-to option for both the daily grind in the city and extensive road trips.

A standout feature is the EcoPlus Technology, which minimizes rolling resistance to boost fuel economy. Its tread configuration delivers assured control and a serene driving experience.

The incorporation of Tread Performance Indicators (TPI) empowers motorists to keep an eye on wear and maintain their vehicle in top condition.

Although capable of navigating light off-road terrains, the Continental TrueContact Tour is not intended for consistent off-road or heavy-duty adventures. For those environments, one might look towards specialized off-road or all-terrain tires.

Concluding our discussion, the Continental TrueContact Tour distinguishes itself as a versatile, all-encompassing tire choice for regular street and highway drives, brilliantly blending comfort, efficacy, fuel conservation, and longevity in an all-season package.

Continental TrueContact Tour Pricing

The Continental TrueContact Tour tires have an MSRP starting at around $130 per tire. However, retailers frequently offer specials and rebates that can significantly reduce the price.

Some current deals from major retailers include:

• Discount Tire – Buy 3 get $70 off instantly with rebate
• TireRack – $70 rebate when you purchase a set of 4
• Walmart – Special buy 3 get 1 free promotion

The rebates and promotions tend to vary by retailer and change frequently. It pays to shop around and look for special offers before purchasing. Signing up for retailers’ email lists can help you stay on top of the latest deals.

Some additional ways to save on the Continental TrueContact Tour tires:

• Use coupon codes and cashback sites when purchasing online
• Buy during seasonal sales events like Black Friday
• See if any local installers offer free mounting/balancing or other discounts
• Trade in old tires to reduce the price

With the right promotion, you can often purchase the Continental TrueContact Tour tires for under $100 per tire. The retail price may be higher, but there are frequently opportunities to save significantly if you shop strategically.

Alternatives of Continental TrueContact Tour Tire

When considering alternatives to the Continental TrueContact Tour tire, it’s essential to keep in mind the type of vehicle you have and your driving conditions. Here are a few prominent alternatives, each with its unique set of features:

Michelin Defender T+H

Renowned for its long tread wear, comfort, and durability, the Defender T+H is a solid alternative. It’s regarded highly for its performance in wet and dry conditions and has a similar 90,000-mile tread life warranty.

Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack

This touring all-season tire is engineered for impressive performance in wet and dry conditions and a quiet, comfortable ride. It also features a tread wear warranty of 80,000 miles.

Pirelli P4 Four Seasons Plus

A good choice for ranging weather conditions, it provides a robust performance in diverse weather, long tread life, and reduced fuel consumption.

Goodyear Assurance MaxLife

This tire offers a long-lasting tread (with a tread life warranty of 85,000 miles), and it is also reputable for its all-season traction and ride comfort.

General AltiMAX RT43

This all-season touring tire offers strong performance in different weather conditions, with balanced dry, wet, and winter performance. It’s also well-regarded for its ride comfort and treadwear.

Yokohoma Avid Ascend GT

Known for blending long tread life, year-round traction and quiet ride, the Avid Ascend GT is a cool choice.

Choosing the right tire depends ultimately on what characteristics you prioritize (like tread life, performance in varying conditions, quietness, comfort), as well as cost, warranty, and other specific needs for your vehicle and driving habits.

Continental TrueContact Tour Video Review

Videos created by Campus Automotive Inc

Conclusion

During this in-depth review, the Continental TrueContact Tour tire proved itself to be a well-rounded and reliable touring tire for a wide range of drivers.

As a grand touring all-season tire, the TrueContact Tour delivers confident wet and dry handling, a smooth and quiet ride, long treadlife, and year-round traction.

While not marketed as a performance tire, it still provides responsive handling for daily commuting and highway driving.

The asymmetric tread design, combined with Continuous Shoulder Design technology, gives the TrueContact Tour grip and stability during cornering and braking.

The stable center rib minimizes noise and improves straight-line stability. The independent intermediate tread blocks enhance wet traction.

Overall, the tread pattern balances handling, comfort, and treadwear.

Across various conditions – from rainy highways to snowy backroads – the TrueContact Tour performed well, living up to Continental’s reputation for German engineering and quality.

Drivers reported excellent hydroplaning resistance and traction on wet roads. The tire also provided adequate snow traction for an all-season, unlike some competitors.

For drivers looking for a long-lasting comfortable tire for highway commutes or road trips, the Continental TrueContact Tour is easy to recommend.

It delivers a smooth, quiet ride along with capable handling and traction for an all-season grand touring tire.

For those wanting more performance, Continental offers summer and winter tire options. But for a reliable well-rounded tire, the TrueContact Tour is a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions