Comparison: Barum Polaris 5 vs. Toyo Observe S944 (2026)

In this comparison, we are comparing a tyre from a manufacturer from Czech Republic (Barum) against a tyre from a manufacturer from Japan (Toyo). Barum is a brand that belongs to the Continental group. Generally, Barum winter tyres are slightly better rated (78%) than Toyo (71%). In this particular case, the Barum Polaris 5 has a better rating of 72% compared to 67% of the Toyo Observe S944. The first tyre test of Barum Polaris 5 was done in 2019, compared to 2020 when was the Toyo Observe S944 first tested. Important for this comparison is also the Autobild 2023 225/45 R18 test, where both the Polaris 5 and the Observe S944 were tested. See more mutual tests below. If you wonder where the tyres in question are made, the Polaris 5 is made in Czech Republic and Observe S944 is made in Japan.