If you’re looking for a high-performance tire that can handle both dry roads and unexpected rain, you’ve probably come across the Continental ExtremeContact DW. This Continental ExtremeContact DW review will help you decide if it’s the right choice for your sports car or coupe. It’s a tire designed for drivers who want great grip without needing a separate set of winter tires.
Continental ExtremeContact DW Review
The Continental ExtremeContact DW is a max-performance summer tire. It’s built for drivers of sports cars, performance sedans, and coupes who prioritize sharp handling and excellent wet-weather capability. Unlike some extreme performance tires, the DW aims for a balance, offering strong dry grip while excelling in the rain.
Many people consider it a top tire in it’s category. Let’s look at what makes it stand out from the competition and where it might have some drawbacks.
Key Features and Technology
Continental packed the ExtremeContact DW with tech to justify it’s performance claims. The tread compound is a high-silica blend that stays flexible in cooler temps for wet grip but remains stable during hard driving on hot pavement.
- Traction Groove: A deep center channel in the tread helps quickly pump water away to prevent hydroplaning.
- Performance-Balanced Tread Blocks: The outer shoulder blocks are reinforced for cornering stiffness, while inner blocks are optimized to reduce noise and improve wet braking.
- Advanced Tread Design: The asymmetric pattern is engineered to provide a large contact patch for stability and feedback.
Performance on Dry Roads
In dry conditions, the ExtremeContact DW delivers confident performance. The steering response is quick and precise, giving you a good connection to the road. You’ll notice strong lateral grip during cornering, allowing you to take turns with stability.
Braking distances are short and predictable. While it’s not the absolute stickiest track-focused tire on the market, it offers more than enough dry performance for spirited street driving and the occasional autocross event. The balance is tipped slightly toward wet-weather safety, but dry grip is still a major strength.
Performance in Wet Conditions
This is where the DW truly shines. Its wet-weather performance is exceptional for a summer tire. The tread design effectively channels large amounts of water, significantly reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
- Wet cornering grip is impressive and inspires confidence.
- Braking distances on soaked roads are remarkably short.
- The tire maintains composure and predictability in heavy rain.
If you live in an area with frequent summer storms, this capability is a huge benefit. It means you won’t be caught out by a sudden downpour during a drive.
Comfort and Noise Levels
For a performance tire, the ExtremeContact DW is relatively quiet and comfortable. The tread pattern and compound help keep road noise lower than some rivals, especially at highway speeds. You’ll still hear more noise than with a grand-touring tire, but it’s not excessive.
The ride quality is firm, as expected, but it absorbs small bumps and imperfections reasonably well. It strikes a good compromise, providing the feedback you want without being overly harsh on rough pavement.
Treadwear and Longevity
The DW carries a 340 treadwear rating, which is fairly standard for it’s class. With proper alignment and rotation, you can expect a reasonable lifespan for a performance summer tire. Aggressive driving will, of course, wear them down quicker.
To maximize their life, follow these simple steps:
- Check your tire pressure monthly and keep it at the car manufacturer’s recommended level.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles to ensure even wear.
- Get a wheel alignment at least once a year, or if you hit a major pothole.
Ideal Vehicle Fitment
The ExtremeContact DW is perfect for a wide range of performance vehicles. It’s a popular choice for drivers who want to upgrade from original equipment tires. You’ll often see them on cars like:
- BMW 3 Series, M3
- Porsche 911, Boxster, Cayman
- Ford Mustang GT
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Subaru WRX STI
- Many Audi and Mercedes-Benz models
Comparing to Other Tires
How does it stack up? The main competitor is often the Michelin Pilot Super Sport (and now the Pilot 4S). The Michelin may have a slight edge in ultimate dry grip and treadlife, but the Continental frequently wins on wet-weather performance and value for money.
Against the Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position, the DW generally offers better wet grip and a quieter ride. It’s important to compare tires in your specific size, as performance can vary slightly between dimensions.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
No tire is perfect for everyone. Here are a few points to keep in mind. First, as a summer tire, it cannot be used in near-freezing temperatures, snow, or ice. The compound hardens, leading to a complete loss of grip.
Second, while treadlife is decent, it won’t last as long as a less performance-oriented tire. If you drive a lot of miles annually, the cost-per-mile will be higher. Finally, some drivers seeking the absolute maximum dry grip for track use might prefer a more extreme, less street-friendly option.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
The Continental ExtremeContact DW is a outstanding choice for the performance-minded driver who encounters rain. It delivers sharp dry handling, class-leading wet-weather safety, and decent comfort. The value proposition is strong, offering a lot of performance for the price.
We recommend it if: you want a balanced summer tire, you drive in areas with frequent rain, and you value predictable handling in all summer conditions. You might look elsewhere if: you need a tire for very cold climates, you prioritize maximum dry grip above all else for track days, or you require all-season capability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Continental ExtremeContact DW a good tire?
Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the best max-performance summer tires available, particularly noted for it’s excellent wet-weather performance and balanced driving character.
Can I use the ExtremeContact DW in winter?
No. It is a dedicated summer tire and should not be used in temperatures below 40°F (4°C), or in any snow or ice. Using it in cold conditions is dangerous and can damage the tire.
How long do Continental ExtremeContact DW tires last?
With a 340 treadwear rating and under normal driving conditions, you can expect around 20,000 to 30,000 miles of life. Aggressive driving will reduce this mileage significantly.
What does the “DW” stand for in ExtremeContact DW?
DW stands for “Dry and Wet,” highlighting the tire’s dual focus on providing strong performance in both of these key conditions.
Are these tires noisy?
For a performance tire, they are relatively quiet. You will hear more road noise than with a standard touring tire, but most owners find the noise level to be acceptable and not intrusive.
Should I consider the newer ExtremeContact Sport instead?
The ExtremeContact Sport is the direct successor to the DW, featuring updated materials and design. If both are available in your size, the Sport generally offers incremental improvements in dry grip and treadwear. However, the DW remains a fantastic tire and may be available at a discount.