What Makes A Good Performance Tire?
Even though summer tires are often referred to as performance rubber, this is not correct. Performance tires have more advanced construction and compound than standard summer tires, which makes them more capable and stable. But what exactly makes a performance tire? Let’s explain this in more detail.
Thread And Sidewall Design
When you look at the performance tire, you will notice several things. There are fewer groves, large and stiff shoulder blocks, and a pattern (directional or asymmetric) designed to maximize performance. All of that is needed to increase the rubber-to-road ratio and enhance grip and braking capabilities. One of the main construction features is reinforced sidewalls for better handling and reduced flex, ensuring sharper steering response. Performance tires often have lower aspect ratios (shorter sidewalls), which contribute to precise steering and a sporty appearance.
Rubber Compound
The rubber compound is just as important as the construction. The rubber in performance tires is often softer and capable of enduring high temperatures; the pliable and sticky rubber is crucial for enhanced handling on dry and wet pavement.
Emphasis On Handling And Braking
Due to their larger rubber-to-road ratio, stiffer sidewalls, and sticky compound, the performance ties are designed for handling and precision steering. In contrast to other tire types, you will experience sharper turning, more road feel, and, most importantly, shorter braking distances. The performance rubber will also provide more grip in the corners, better acceleration, and help you extract more out of your car.
Kumho’s Upcoming Performance Tires For 2025
A new lineup of advanced performance tires by Kumho was announced at the SEMA show in late 2024 and immediately met universal interest from performance car enthusiasts. Knowing the company’s reputation, a range of dedicated performance tires is something very exciting. The company has announced that AI technology’s longstanding OEM experience and connection with leading car companies helped design and engineer the new performance tires. So, let’s see what Kumho has prepared for 2025.
1. Kumho Ecta Sport PS72 and Ecta Sport S PS72
The first in the lineup is a pair of summer performance tires called Ecta Sport PS72 and Ecta Sport S PS72. With similar construction but slightly different rubber compounds, both tires are designed to be capable and surefooted on dry and wet surfaces. On both tires, the tread design is enhanced to allow faster water excavation with sharp edges of the tread blocks to prevent hydroplaning. Thanks to innovative construction, these tires provide high levels of grip and braking capabilities. Both tires will be delivered with a 30,000-mile warranty.
The Kumho Ecta Sport PS72 will be available in 56 different sizes, ranging from 17 to 21 inches in diameter. Kumho is proud to announce that this tire can meet performance requirements for modern sports cars. This tire is ideal for affordable US sports cars and hot hatch models. Cars like the Subaru BRZ, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Golf R, and Ford Mustang EcoBoost will benefit from this tire and its capabilities. We are talking about models that have up to 350 hp and are everyday enthusiast models.
However, the Kumho Ecta Sport S PS72 is a step above, with 52 available sizes, from 18 to 22 inches in diameter. With its higher capabilities, this tire is clearly aimed at more powerful and expensive sports machines like the Ford Mustang GT, Porsche 911 Carrera 2, Toyota Supra GT, Nissan 400Z, and base Chevrolet Corvette C8. The Ecta Sport S PS72 is more appropriate for cars with a higher level of horsepower.
2. Kumho Ecta Sport PA71 All-Season
As one of the biggest OEM suppliers in the car tire business, Kumho knows that all-season tires are the standard and dependable choice for moderate climates and everyday drivers. However, there is a need for capable, high-performance tires in this segment, and Ecta Sport PA71 is such a product. Kumho’s Ecsta Sport PA71 is built to endure, boasting a remarkable 50,000-mile treadwear warranty. This tire is designed to handle the demands of modern high-performance vehicles and prioritizes comfort. Its innovative rounded edges and unique dimple pattern are engineered to disrupt airflow, effectively reducing road noise for a quieter driving experience. With 56 size options available, ranging from 16 to 21 inches, the Ecsta Sport All-Season PA71 provides versatility for a variety of vehicles.
Conclusion
With innovative tech, a capable rubber compound, and a wide range of options and sizes, the upcoming Kumho’s performance range is great news for all high-speed enthusiasts who are looking for dependable and affordable rubber. Staying true to its approach, Kumho has once again raised the industry’s standards and offered impressive products and car models that are available for a wide range of customers.
NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Tires Easy