Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus vs Firestone FireHawk A/S tires

UHP all-season is a category of tires that offer a great combination of performance and traction throughout the year, unlike UHP tires that work only in warmer conditions. This article is a shootout between two of the top tires in this segment, Germany-based Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus and Ohio-based Firestone Firehawk A/S. While both tires are evenly matched in terms of warranty, Continental provides a higher speed rating. On the other hand, Firestone is marginally better with respect to tread depth, but does that translate into better traction and handling performance? Let’s go through the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus vs FireHawk A/S tires comparison to find out.

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus tires

One of the best ways to push the envelope on your vehicle without switching to UHP or summer tires for warmer months is to purchase a top-selling UHP all-season tire like the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS tires. Sharp cornering and great grip on slippery roads are the major features of this tire, available with an excellent average SimpleScore of 9.4. The tires can perform well on both dry and wet roads. With the help of Tuned Performance Indicators, you can see how long the tire continues to offer optimal performance in wet, dry, and light snow conditions. An Alignment Verification System helps determine if there is uneven wear due to misalignment. These passenger tires have been designed as per the requirements of CUVs, SUVs, and performance-based passenger cars.

Firestone FireHawk A/S tires

Firestone Firehawk A/S delivers sporty performance as a UHP all-season tire, being priced at a slightly lesser price than the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus. It features a special tread design with extra biting edges for more traction and a high tread depth. As per the above, this tire is suitable for an average SimpleScore of 8.8. It promises great control and enhanced traction in snowy conditions. The tire always performs with a sporty edge and is a good choice for daily drivers. The tire showcases a sleek design and full-depth features that make it stand out. Firehawk A/S tires have been specially designed for sporty passenger cars.

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus vs Firestone FireHawk A/S tires on traction

Continental offers SPORTPLUS+ Technology on the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus for exceptional dry and wet grip, resulting in an amazing SimpleScore of 9.8 for traction. On the other hand, the Firestone Firehawk A/S features an innovative tread pattern with 20% extra biting edges for enhanced traction, allowing it to gain an average traction SimpleScore of 8.7. Superior water evacuation channels enable this tire to get rid of water in a quick manner, Therefore, it is clear that Continental’s technology makes its tire far superior to Firestone's.

ADVANTAGE: Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus vs Firestone FireHawk A/S tires on handling

Continental's SPORTPLUS+ Technology seems to be on dual duty, offering tremendous handling in addition to traction. It is a tire that offers precise handling and sharp cornering in slick conditions at high speeds. When compared to the V-speed rating on the Firehawk A/S, Continental offers a faster W- and Y- speed rating on the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus. However, the tread depth on the Firestone is greater, albeit marginally. The Firestone tire has a special design for enhancing steering control. Once again, the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus, at an average handling SimpleScore of 9.8, scores significantly higher than the Firestone Firehawk A/S (8.7).

ADVANTAGE: Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus vs Firestone FireHawk A/S tires on longevity

Road Hazard, Customer Satisfaction Trial, Flat Tire Roadside Assistance, and a 25,000 to 50,000 mile limited tread life warranty are part of the Continental Total Confidence Plan, leading to an average longevity SimpleScore of 8.8. Tuned Performance Indicators show if the tire is still appropriate for dry, wet, or snowy conditions, and an Alignment Verification System alerts you when an alignment is necessary to avoid uneven wear. In comparison, the Firehawk A/S receives a fixed limited manufacturer warranty of 50,000 miles. However, the greater tread depth on the Firehawk does contribute to a slight edge in terms of longevity. Both tires are closely matched in terms of longevity here, with the Firehawk A/S scoring a slightly higher 9.1 SimpleScore rating.

ADVANTAGE: Firestone FireHawk A/S

When to use each

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus is compatible with wider applications as compared to Firestone Firehawk A/S. While the latter is suitable only for sporty passenger cars, the former can be fitted on SUVs, CUVs, and passenger vehicles.

Which one should you choose?

The ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus is the more expensive tire of the two, starting at $134.99 per tire ($539.96 for 4). In comparison, the Firehawk A/S can be bought for a starting price of $118.96 (475.84 for 4).

So, if you have reached the point where you have to purchase one of the two, allow us to guide you a little more. Purchase the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus if:

• You need a more comprehensive warranty program
• You wish to feel more confident with better traction
• You want a tire that handles better
• You own a sporty CUV or SUV

We recommend the purchase of Firestone Firehawk A/S if:

• You intend to save money
• You want better wet traction
• You want a long-lasting tire
• Warranty in terms of miles is all that matters
• You want the better-looking tire

Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help, and our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.