My Tesla Model 3 Performance aftermarket winter tire and wheel setup
My new Tesla Model 3 Performance is getting aftermarket winter tires and wheels installed at Kwik Fit today. Join me for this exciting moment and review. I will explain why I went with Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tires and AEZ Toronto Black wheels after long careful comparison and consideration. Both are premium performance wheel and tire brands that should fit the DNA of this car well.
Best way to order and install aftermarket Tesla winter tires and wheels
Finally I decided not to order wheels and tires on the internet to save a few bucks. I went to my favorite local Kwikfit garage and told them which tires and wheels I wanted. The main advantage is that I keep a single point of contact in case there is something wrong with the tires and wheels after installation.
Why Choose Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ Winter Tires for the Tesla Model 3 Performance?
The Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ (an enhanced iteration of the highly regarded Wintrac Pro) is a premium performance winter tire designed for high-power vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 Performance. It’s particularly well-suited for this car due to its dual-motor AWD setup, quick acceleration (0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds), and staggered 20″ wheel configuration (235/35R20 front, 275/30R20 rear on the 2024+ model). While Tesla’s official Performance Winter Tire Package uses Pirelli P Zero winters, the Wintrac Pro+ stands out for Tesla owners in snowy regions seeking a balance of performance, grip, handling, efficiency, and value. Below, I’ll break down the key reasons based on expert tests, owner feedback, and tire specs.
1. Exceptional Snow and Ice Traction for Confident Winter Driving
- The Wintrac Pro+ features an aggressive tread pattern with sharp-angled center grooves, dense shoulder sipes, and 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) certification for severe snow service. This design excels in deep snow, slush, and ice—critical for the Model 3 Performance’s instant torque, which can otherwise overwhelm lesser tires.
- Tesla-specific benefits: Owners report it transforms the M3P into a “tank” in snow, allowing uphill climbs, unplowed roads, and highway speeds without slip. One Reddit user with an M3P in northern Utah said it “seriously goes anywhere no problem,” outperforming stock all-seasons and even some competitors like Michelin X-Ice in real-world storms (4-5″ snow).
- In tests, it scores high for snow braking (short distances) and traction, with minimal wheelspin even on RWD-biased setups—ideal for the M3P’s 510 hp.
2. Performance-Oriented Handling That Matches the M3P’s Sporty Dynamics
- As a “performance winter” tire (V-speed rated for up to 149 mph), it prioritizes cornering stability, dry/wet braking, and high-speed handling over pure snow focus. The asymmetric tread and silica compound maintain flexibility below 45°F while providing precise steering feedback.
- Why for M3P?: The Model 3 Performance’s adaptive damping and Track Mode V3 demand tires that handle spirited driving. Owners note it feels “stable and tight” in corners, better than older Pirelli Sottozero 3s (a common M3 winter alternative). One forum user hit 120+ mph on an ice track with Wintrac Pros on their M3P, praising its predictability. Wet braking is solid (short stops), and it integrates well with Tesla’s regen braking for efficient deceleration.
3. Low Road Noise and Efficiency Gains for EV Comfort
- Winter tires are notoriously noisy, but the Wintrac Pro+ uses optimized siping and a noise-reducing tread to keep cabin volume low—especially important in the quiet Model 3. Owners describe it as “quieter than expected” on highways, with minimal hum compared to foam-less OEM summers.
- Efficiency edge: It rolls efficiently for a winter tire, with some M3 owners seeing 217-238 Wh/mi at 68 mph (better than many rivals). This helps preserve the M3P’s 303-mile range in cold weather, where EVs lose 20-30% efficiency. No significant regen impact reported.
4. Cost Savings Without Sacrificing Quality
- Priced $100 less per tire than premium options like Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 or Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 ($250-300 each in 20″ sizes), the Wintrac Pro+ offers better value. Full sets with 19″ or 20″ wheels run $1,600-2,000.
- Top ratings: Consumer Reports gave the Wintrac Pro an 78/100 (highest-ever for any tire category at the time), beating most winters in overall performance. Tire Reviews and ADAC tests praise its winter grip and durability, with longevity up to 30,000 miles.
In summary, the Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ shines for Tesla Model 3 Performance owners who want winter capability that doesn’t dull the car’s fun-to-drive nature. It’s a smart upgrade for safety in harsh conditions, backed by glowing reviews from Tesla forums like Reddit’s r/TeslaModel3 and Tesla Motors Club.
Feedback
What are your experiences with the Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ winter tires? Let me know your favorite and best tires and wheels on a Tesla or any other car this winter season. I am looking forward to hearing from you. Check out also my video with tips how to best change and store your winter tires in the comfort of your own home and save a lot of money.
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