A deeper dive into why Spec R recommends this winter package:
The Continental IceContact XTRM (non-studded) is an excellent winter tire choice for the Tesla Model S, complementing the vehicle's advanced dual-motor all-wheel-drive system while preserving the quiet, refined driving experience expected from a premium electric luxury sedan.
The Model S delivers instant electric torque, exceptional stability, and confident all-wheel-drive performance, and some winter tires can feel soft or imprecise on dry pavement. The IceContact XTRM addresses this with a high-silica winter compound and an optimized tread design that delivers responsive steering and predictable handling while providing outstanding traction on snow, slush, and icy roads.
Because the Model S features an exceptionally quiet cabin, tire noise is more noticeable than in a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle. The non-studded version is therefore an ideal match, offering exceptional winter grip with significantly lower road noise than studded tires. This allows drivers to preserve the sedan's refined ride quality while maintaining confidence in challenging winter conditions.
For most Canadian drivers—especially in urban areas where roads are regularly plowed—the Continental IceContact XTRM (non-studded) provides an outstanding balance of winter traction, handling precision, ride comfort, and low noise. Drivers who frequently travel on untreated rural highways or consistently ice-covered roads may benefit from the studded version, but for everyday winter driving, the non-studded IceContact XTRM is an exceptional choice for the Tesla Model S.
Continental Total Confidence Plan
Limited Warranty
All Continental passenger and light truck tires are eligible for the Limited Warranty for a maximum of up to 72 months from the date of purchase. The Limited Warranty allows for free replacement within the first 12 months. Please see Total Confidence Plan Brochure for complete coverage details.
Mileage Warranty
Continental Tire will cover replacements on select products up to 128,000km. Please see Total Confidence Plan Brochure for complete coverage details.
Customer Satisfaction Trail
Continental passenger and light truck tires purchased as replacement bearing the Continental name and D.O.T. serial numbers are covered up to 60 days (or the first 2/32nds treadwear, whichever comes first). Please see Total Confidence Plan Brochure for complete coverage details.
Road Hazard Coverage
Continental’s Road Hazard Coverage makes it unique in the industry because it applies to all Continental Branded Tires that are purchased as replacement, and is a promise of a free comparable replacement tire during the first 12 months after purchase or 2/32nds of treadwear (whichever comes first). Please see Total Confidence Plan Brochure for complete coverage details.
Flat Tire Roadside Assistance
Three (3) year complimentary flat change or towing up to 250 kms at no charge. Tires must be registered online at www.totalconfidence-plan.com to qualify for Flat Tire Roadside Assistance. Coverage is valid on replacement passenger and light truck tire purchases made on or after February 1, 2015.
Emergency Trip Interruption Coverage
Three (3) year complimentary service designed to help reimburse the eligible expenses resulting from a mechanical breakdown during a road trip. Tires must be registered online at www.totalconfidence-plan.com to qualify for Emergency Trip Interruption Coverage. Coverage is valid on replacement passenger and light truck tire purchases made on or after January 1, 2022. Limit $200.00 per day maximum benefit, and a total annual maximum benefit of $500.00.
For more details, please visit: https://www.continental-tires.com/ca/en/continental-for-business/technical-services/total-confidence-plan/#Ltd_w-item-522c428761