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

In this comparison, we are comparing a tyre from a manufacturer from Japan (Toyo) against a tyre from a manufacturer from Czech Republic (Barum). 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 Toyo Observe S944 was done in 2020, compared to 2019 when was the Barum Polaris 5 first tested. Important for this comparison is also the Autobild 2023 225/45 R18 test, where both the Observe S944 and the Polaris 5 were tested. See more mutual tests below. If you wonder where the tyres in question are made, the Observe S944 is made in Japan and Polaris 5 is made in Czech Republic.