Canadian winters don’t mess around — heavy snow, black ice, and freezing temperatures make reliable winter tires a must, not a luxury. Two of the most trusted choices among Canadian drivers from coast to coast are the Continental VikingContact 7 and VikingContact 8. Both are top-performing winter tires engineered to handle the harshest road conditions, from icy Vancouver streets to the deep snowbanks of Saguenay.
But which one is right for you? The VikingContact 7, already proven across Canada, or the brand-new VikingContact 8, which brings some exciting upgrades? Let’s break down the key differences to help you make the best choice — one that keeps you safe and confident wherever winter takes you.
Continental VikingContact 7
The VikingContact 7 has earned a solid reputation among Canadian drivers who value safety and comfort through the cold months. Designed for passenger cars, SUVs, and even electric vehicles, this tire is ideal for cautious drivers seeking dependable performance in all winter conditions.
It’s EV-ready, meaning it’s optimized for electric vehicles in terms of noise reduction, rolling resistance, and tread life. The tread pattern features an advanced network of grooves that effectively reduce hydroplaning while maintaining strong stability in slush and snow. Interlocking tread blocks enhance rigidity, improving cornering and handling on slippery roads.
The VikingContact 7 uses a canola oil–based rubber compound that stays flexible in extremely cold temperatures — a major advantage for Canadian winters. Its Active Grip Silica compound enhances traction on wet and icy surfaces and shortens braking distances.
Technical Details:
Vehicle types: Passenger cars, SUVs, electric vehicles
Season: Winter
Key technologies: Active Grip Silica, canola oil compound, multidirectional sipes, interlocked tread blocks
Available sizes: 15" to 22"
Speed rating: T/H – suitable for typical Canadian highway speeds
Warranty: Covered under the Total Confidence Plan, which includes 3 years of roadside assistance and a 60-day satisfaction trial
Continental VikingContact 8
The VikingContact 8 represents Continental’s latest generation of winter technology, tailored for the ever-changing Canadian climate. It takes winter performance to a new level — improving safety, energy efficiency, and quietness, all while remaining fully EV-compatible.
This tire truly shines in icy and snowy conditions. Certified 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF), it delivers dependable traction on ice, snow, slush, and wet roads. Its updated tread design features 3D sipes, snow edges, and multi-layer shoulder sipes, providing enhanced grip during cornering and braking.
The new Nordic compound keeps the rubber flexible no matter how cold it gets. It’s also engineered to extend EV range and minimize road noise — a big plus for drivers who appreciate a quiet cabin in modern vehicles.
Technical Details:
Vehicle types: Passenger cars, SUVs, electric vehicles
Season: Winter
Key technologies: 3D sipes, Nordic compound, snow edges, 3PMSF certification, low noise design
Available sizes: 15" to 22"
Speed rating: T/H
Warranty: Covered under the Total Confidence Plan with the same benefits as the VC7
Tire Comparison Chart
Features | VikingContact 7 | VikingContact 8 |
|---|---|---|
Vehicle types | Cars, SUVs, EVs | Cars, SUVs, EVs |
Season | Winter | Winter |
Ice traction | Excellent | Superior (new Nordic compound) |
Main technology | Active Silica, canola oil | 3D sipes, snow edges, 3PMSF |
EV-compatible | Yes | Yes |
Available sizes | 15"–22" | 15"–22" |
Speed rating | T/H | T/H |
Warranty | 60-day trial + roadside assistance | 60-day trial + roadside assistance |
Price Range
Model | Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|
115 $ – 655 $ | |
157 $ – 523 $ |
Prices may vary depending on size, promotions, and availability. Visit Blackcircles.ca for real-time pricing and offers.
Whether you go for the VikingContact 7 or the VikingContact 8, you’re investing in premium Continental quality. If you want the latest winter technology with improved ice performance, the VC8 is your match. If you prefer a tried-and-true tire known for comfort and reliability, the VC7 remains a fantastic option.
