WINTER tyres. After a mild winter they are suddenly really starting to come into their own.

I had winter tyres (or snow tyres) fitted to my Audi A6 just before I went to Cornwall for Christmas. I thought the timing would be ideal.

As it was, the weather was mild and barely crept below 7 degrees when winter tyres really start to perform (we kept the wood burner going in the cottage though, to keep the Christmassy feel!).

However, with the first bucketload of the white stuff, I had the chance to experience the difference these tyres made at the weekend.

And a difference they do make. On snowy or icy roads, the level of grip is astonishingly high. While other road users drive gingerly ahead, the Audi is assured and safe.

Impressed? You bet. In the past I have been slightly dismissive of winter tyres. But they do make a difference. And, as you are going to change your tyres once in normal business lease of three years and 10,000 miles, making one set winters makes sense.

If you need more convincing, read our special report on winter tyres here: The business benefits of winter tyres.

Previous blog on the editor’s Audi A6
Turn off and clean the air