Bridgestone also introduced its new product for the winter season this year, and just like Continental, it significantly simplified the naming of its models. So, after the Blizzak LM-005, we now simply have the Blizzak 6.
Previous generation
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Bridgestone Blizzak LM-005 (â 88)
Dimensions: 155/30R14 - 315/70R22
Number of sizes: 184
Number of tests: 5
Show more details ...As is typical with tires from the Bridgestone group, the new model is also presented with the addition of ENLITEN, a technology that ensures lower rolling resistance and longer lifespan. This technology is used not only by Bridgestone but also by sister brand Firestone. The previous generation achieved relatively good results in tests, although it also placed far down the rankings in some of them. These tests had one thing in common â they also measured driving performance on ice, which is not entirely standard. And it was precisely on ice where the previous generation struggled. The press release for the Blizzak 6 does not specifically mention performance on ice, so it remains to be seen whether Bridgestoneâs engineers focused on this aspect as well, but it would certainly make sense.
Bridgestone presents the LM-005 as a winner of 23 tests, which is accurate â but there were certainly over 40 tests in total, and the LM-005 performed well, especially in sizes R17 and larger. Weâll see how this new model fares, but according to independent tests, it seems the new version ranks among the top premium winter tires, especially in wet braking, which is crucial for European cities in winter.
Tests conducted by TĂV SĂD in November 2023 at Bridgestoneâs request showed that the Blizzak 6 is competitive in the somewhat unusual combined discipline of âacceleration and braking on snow,â setting a reference score of 100%. Michelin scored 95.5%, Pirelli 97.8%, and both Goodyear and Continental also reached 100%.
In wet braking, Bridgestone recorded a stopping distance of 35.1 meters, Continental 35.9 meters, Goodyear 36.4 meters, Michelin 35.5 meters, and Pirelli 36.0 meters. The Blizzak 6 thus demonstrates its focus on wet performance, which is an interesting contrast to most premium tires, whose priority is snow performance.
The use of ENLITEN technology should ensure a lifespan one-third longer compared to its predecessor, which is quite impressive.
Letâs take a closer look at what testers liked and disliked about the previous generation. Almost every test mentioned excellent handling on wet roads, high resistance to aquaplaning, and short braking distances on wet surfaces. Handling on dry roads, low rolling resistance, and high comfort were also often praised. However, in addition to the aforementioned performance on ice, longer braking distances on dry surfaces and short lifespan were frequently mentioned as downsides. These issues should no longer be a problem, as the new version boasts a 30% longer lifespan. Some tests also noted poorer handling on snow, but based on Bridgestoneâs measurements, it seems this has been addressed.
According to the information available so far, the Blizzak 6 looks very promising. However, we will soon see in the first winter tire tests of the season how it truly performs. If Bridgestone has indeed managed to extend its lifespan by 30% while improving driving performance, it should perform very well in tests.
