Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D Tire Review & Rating
The Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D ultra-high performance winter tire is designed to compete with the best in class when it comes to traction, handling and overall performance during the cold winter months. Built for all types of sport coupes and sedans, the Winter Sport 4D delivers increased braking and acceleration over many similar tires in this category.
A high-grip silica rubber compound is engineered to stay pliable in very cold temperatures, while its unique tread design, biting edges and directional grooves provide the necessary traction and grip to go through deeper snow and ice. The tread design enhances response and control on dry, wet and slippery road surfaces.
Deep snow notches in the tread surface further increase grip enhance these tires and they deliver even more traction and grip when you’re driving through snow, ice or when you’re climbing hills. Dunlop’s 4D siping around the tread uses their proven 3D sipe technology and additional transverse sipes to provide outstanding snow handling and cornering grip, especially on dry pavement at higher speeds.
For those who are conscious about how much they spend on fuel and CO2 emissions, the Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D uses less energy, thanks to its lightweight construction. Despite being lightweight, these tires have a bead seat system and jointless belt that makes them more stable and durable.
It should be noted that the Winter Sport 4D is also available with Dunlop’s RunOnFlat technology. If you experience a puncture you are still able to drive on the flat tire for up to 50 miles at 50 mph. This particular feature is reassuring for vehicle owners who may be driving in locations where there is little or no help available.
Dunlop offers 15 to 20-inch sizes with H and V-speed ratings available. All sizes have a limited tread warranty.
Pros
- Traction, braking and acceleration on snow and ice
- Dry traction and cornering grip in below freezing temps
- Wet traction, braking, cornering and handling
Cons
- Noise and comfort
Overall Thoughts
The SP Winter Sport 4D has come out on top in a number of different tests for tires in this category, such as the 2014 Auto Bild Winter tire test. Owners of this tire have found that it offers extremely good traction, braking, handling and cornering in the snow. Many owners have even commented that this tire is superior to other popular winter tires in this category, such as the Goodyear Ultra Grip, Blizzak LM 32 and Pirelli Serie 3 among others.
When temperatures are above the freezing point, this tire is considered to be pretty average, but once the temperature dips below freezing, the Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D really comes into its own.
On the negative side, you may find a little added noise, even at slower speeds. Comfort may also be an issue for some owners of these tires, but it’s nothing that would prevent us from driving all winter on this tire.
Overall, the Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D is a high-performing, attractive, hard wearing UHP winter tire. It has proven to be as good, if not better, than many of the leading tires in its category. We rank it as an excellent choice.
Tire Sizes
15″
195/65R15 91H BLK
16″
205/55R16 91H BLK
17″
235/65R17 108H XL BLK
225/55R17 101H XL BLK
235/55R17 99V BLK
225/50R17 98H XL BLK
18″
235/50R18 97V BLK
19″
235/55R19 101V BLK
255/50R19 103V BLK
20″
265/45R20 104V BLK
295/40R20 106V BLK
Price Range
Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D prices range from approximately $94 and up. You may also find occasional rebates, discount prices, coupons and special offers on this tire.
Warranty
Dunlop provides a limited tread warranty on the SP Winter Sport 4D. Tire uniformity is guaranteed for the first year or first 2/32 inch of wear. Materials and workmanship are warranted for 6-years and include free replacement during the first year or first 2/32 inch of wear. A prorated amount is given for the remaining time period or down to the final 2/32 inch of tread depth.