Overview
The Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus sits at the top of the ultra-high performance (UHP) all-season segment, engineered for drivers who demand year-round versatility without sacrificing spirited handling. Designed for sports sedans, coupes, crossovers, and even some performance-oriented wagons, the DWS 06 Plus targets enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Its core aim is to deliver confidence across dry, wet, and light snow conditions, with a particular focus on maximizing comfort and minimizing road noise—a key consideration for US roads where long, varied commutes are the norm.
We reviewed the DWS 06 Plus in two of its most popular sizes: 225/45ZR17 and 245/40ZR18, both common fits for sporty sedans like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS. Continental’s advanced tread design and rubber compound promise a blend of performance, safety, and comfort, making this tyre a compelling option for those unwilling to compromise.
Key Specs
| Type | Ultra-High Performance All-Season |
| Available sizes range | 16" to 22" (wide fitment coverage) |
| Speed rating examples | W (168 mph), Y (186 mph) in select sizes |
| Load index examples | 91 (1356 lbs), 96 (1565 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Asymmetric, high-sipe density, circumferential grooves |
| Technology highlights | SportPlus Technology, QuickView Indicators, Silica-enhanced compound, Chamfered edges |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus stands out for its precise steering and composed road manners. The asymmetric tread pattern, reinforced shoulder blocks, and SportPlus Technology combine to deliver impressive lateral grip in corners and strong braking stability. Drivers will notice a sporty, responsive feel that remains approachable even at the limit, making this tyre suitable for spirited backroad drives as well as daily commutes.
Compared to rivals in the UHP all-season class, the DWS 06 Plus offers a well-balanced ride, with only a slight edge in outright dry grip given up to pure summer tyres. Still, for an all-season, the tyre’s performance envelope is remarkably broad, and most drivers will find its limits well beyond typical street demands.
Performance: Wet
Continental’s focus on wet performance shines through, with the DWS 06 Plus delivering confident handling and excellent resistance to hydroplaning. The high silica content in the tread compound and four wide circumferential grooves work in tandem to evacuate water quickly, providing stable braking and strong cornering even during heavy rain.
In real-world testing, this tyre matches or exceeds the wet-weather poise of top competitors like the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 and Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate. Traction remains predictable near the limits, with minimal squirm or loss of feedback. For US drivers frequently encountering sudden downpours or wet highways, this tyre is a reassuring choice.
Performance: Snow & Ice
While no UHP all-season can rival a true winter tyre, the DWS 06 Plus is among the best in its class for light snow and slush. The densely siped tread and special snow-biting edges provide just enough traction for safe, controlled starts and stops in mild wintry conditions. Steering remains precise, and the tyre maintains stability through gentle corners.
On ice or in deeper snow, limitations appear—as expected for this segment. For regions that experience frequent, severe winter storms, a dedicated winter tyre is still recommended. However, for much of the US where snow is occasional, the DWS 06 Plus offers a meaningful safety margin that outperforms most summer or three-season tyres.
Comfort & Noise
One of the standout qualities of the ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is its low noise signature. On a variety of surfaces, including concrete highways and coarse asphalt, the tyre maintains a subdued hum, with very little tread growl even at higher speeds. Continental employs noise-dampening tread engineering, including variable pitch sequencing and a specialized carcass, to minimize cabin intrusion.
Ride comfort is equally impressive, especially considering the tyre’s sporty intent. Bumps and expansion joints are well-absorbed, with no harshness or jarring impacts transmitted to the cabin. This composure makes the DWS 06 Plus a strong choice for drivers who want both performance and everyday refinement, especially those sensitive to noise on long road trips.
Durability & Economy
Continental rates the DWS 06 Plus with a UTQG of 560 A A, which places it near the top of the UHP all-season pack for treadwear. Real-world reports and fleet feedback suggest the tyre can achieve 30,000–50,000 miles depending on driving style, alignment, and rotation practices. Even with spirited use, premature wear is uncommon.
Rolling resistance is moderate, in line with its performance orientation. Fuel economy is not compromised compared to most OE all-season tyres, and many drivers may see a slight improvement over older UHP models. The robust construction also resists irregular wear and maintains good balance throughout the tyre’s life.
Sizes & Alternatives
The DWS 06 Plus is available in a vast range of sizes, from 16-inch to 22-inch diameters, covering everything from popular compacts to luxury sport SUVs.
Popular Sizes
- 225/45ZR17: Common on BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Honda Accord Sport
- 245/40ZR18: Fits BMW 4 Series, Lexus IS, Audi S4
- 235/40ZR18, 255/35ZR19, 275/40ZR20: Coverage for wider, performance-oriented applications
Key Competitors
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
- Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate
- Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
- Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus
- Falken Azenis FK460 A/S
Pros & Cons
- Excellent dry and wet grip for an all-season
- Among the quietest in the UHP segment
- Comfortable ride, even over rough surfaces
- Strong snow traction for its class
- Wide range of sizes and fitments
- Reputable treadwear and good UTQG rating
- Not a substitute for a dedicated winter tyre in harsh conditions
- Steering feel is slightly less sharp than some summer-only tyres
- Price is on the premium side
- Wet grip can decline as tread nears end of life
Verdict
The Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is a benchmark in the ultra-high performance all-season space, excelling in dry and wet conditions while maintaining a comfort and quietness level rarely seen in this segment. For US drivers seeking a true do-it-all tyre—one that provides year-round peace of mind, a refined highway experience, and the ability to enjoy spirited drives—the DWS 06 Plus is a standout pick.
Its combination of low noise, strong all-weather performance, and broad size availability make it a smart choice for both daily commuters and enthusiasts who don’t want to swap tyres seasonally. While pure summer performance tyres may offer a sharper edge on track days, and winter tyres remain the gold standard for deep snow or ice, the DWS 06 Plus is a compelling “one tyre solution” for most climates and drivers. The slightly higher price is justified by its all-around excellence, making it an investment in both driving enjoyment and daily comfort.
If I want to install the 245/40ZR18 size on my Lexus IS, do I need to update or adjust anything with my vehicle’s alignment?
When switching to 245/40ZR18 tires on your Lexus IS, it’s a good idea to get a wheel alignment afterward. Changing tire size can slightly alter suspension geometry, so an alignment helps ensure even tire wear and optimal handling. No other adjustments are usually needed unless you’re also changing wheel width or offset significantly.
How do the DWS 06 Plus tires handle light snow compared to other UHP all-season options around this price point?
The DWS 06 Plus tires perform very well in light snow for their category, offering better traction and braking than most ultra-high performance all-season tires in this price range. Their tread design and compound provide confident handling when roads are lightly covered, giving them an edge over many competitors that tend to struggle more in those conditions.