NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire 245/40R18 97T - Studdable Grip

Our review of the NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 finds it best suited for drivers who need confident winter performance without compromising ride comfort. The tire's single biggest selling point is its studdable design combined with a winter rubber compound that stays flexible in sub-freezing temperatures, delivering improved traction on snow and ice. For commuters, small SUVs and performance-minded passenger cars that face moderate to severe winter conditions, the Winguard Winspike 3 provides predictable braking and handling while also being quieter and smoother at highway speeds than some studded alternatives.

Key Features

• Total Coverage Warranty: Backed by Nexen's best-in-class Total Coverage Warranty, the tire includes 36 months of roadside assistance for added ownership peace of mind.
• Optional TSMI #12 studs: The studdable option offers superior grip and control in icy conditions when studs are installed for maximum winter traction.
• Directional tread pattern: Deep grooves evacuate water and slush quickly from the contact patch to reduce hydroplaning risk in slushy conditions.
• Dense siping: Extensive siping increases road bite on packed snow and ice, improving braking and low-speed control.
• 3PMSF certified: The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification confirms the tire's capability in moderate to severe snow conditions.
• Winter compound: Advanced rubber remains flexible in sub-freezing temperatures for better grip and responsiveness.

Who It's For

The Winguard Winspike 3 is aimed at drivers who regularly encounter snow, ice or prolonged cold and want a tire that can be studded for extra security on glazed surfaces. It is a strong choice for owners of passenger cars and performance sedans in northern climates who value traction, predictable handling and a quieter ride compared with aggressive studded tires.

Drivers who never see icy roads or who require an all-season solution year-round should look elsewhere, as this is a winter-specific tire optimized for cold-weather performance and stud installation rather than summer mileage or warm-weather handling.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent winter traction thanks to the flexible winter compound and dense siping for improved braking on snow and ice.
• Optional studs provide superior grip and control where legal and necessary for icy roads.
• Directional tread and deep grooves help evacuate water and slush, lowering hydroplaning risk.
• Backed by Nexen's Total Coverage Warranty with 36 months of roadside assistance for ownership confidence.

Cons

• Some customers reported receiving non-studded tires where studs were expected, indicating buyers should confirm stud installation at purchase.
• As a winter-specific tire, it is not intended for warm-weather performance or summer longevity.

Specifications

Brand	NEXEN
Model	Winguard Winspike 3
Size	245/40R18 97T
Studdable	Optional TSMI #12 studs
Certification	Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF)
Warranty	Total Coverage Warranty with 36 months roadside assistance
Available rim sizes	13-22 in

Our Verdict

The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 is a compelling winter tire for drivers who need reliable snow and ice performance and the option of studs for the worst conditions. It blends strong traction, controlled handling and a relatively quiet ride, and the included Total Coverage Warranty adds ownership value. Choose it if you face true winter weather regularly and want a studdable, 3PMSF-certified tire that balances grip and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these tires be fitted with studs?
Yes, the Winguard Winspike 3 accepts optional TSMI #12 studs for enhanced ice traction when studs are installed.

Is this tire certified for severe snow?
Yes, it carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, indicating capability in moderate to severe snow.

Does the warranty include roadside assistance?
Yes, Nexen's Total Coverage Warranty includes 36 months of roadside assistance.