Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 vs Hankook iON evo AS SUV — a head-to-head battle in the SUV all-season segment, where performance, comfort, and efficiency collide. One represents a refined, premium all-season approach, while the other brings a new generation of EV-focused technology into the mix. This sets the stage for an exciting showdown — traditional all-season excellence vs next-gen innovation.
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Results: Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 vs Hankook iON evo AS SUV
Results below were taken from the Tire Rack’s “Touring all season road test. A total of 12 tires were tested this time around in Tire Rack’s own proving ground. The graph below shows the comparison between Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 vs Hankook iON evo AS SUV based on the relevant performance category. The Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark. Note that for subjective evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. Hence for example if tire A is graded 7 while tire B is graded 6, A is better than B by 5%.
As both tires are categorized as all season tires, Tire Rack has included snow & ice in its testing portfolio. The tire size of interest is 235/55R19 which is a common tire size for Volvo XC60 & Audi Q5. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Wet
In wet braking, the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 stops 6 feet shorter than the Hankook iON evo AS SUV, which is about a 4% advantage. It also delivers a stronger subjective wet handling score, coming in 0.44 points higher, translating to roughly a 2% better feel in grip and control.
However, in wet handling lap time, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV is slightly quicker by 0.12 seconds, which rounds to a 0% difference, showing how close both tires are at the limit. Overall, the Pirelli leans towards better braking and driver confidence, while the Hankook matches closely with a marginal edge in outright lap speed.
iON evo AS SUV :
- -4% in wet braking
- -2% in wet handling (subj)
- 0% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry
In dry braking, the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 stops 6 feet shorter than the Hankook iON evo AS SUV, giving it around a 4% advantage. This highlights stronger straight-line stopping performance under dry conditions.
However, in subjective dry handling, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV scores 0.37 points higher, which is about a 2% advantage, indicating a slightly better steering feel and balance. Overall, the Pirelli focuses more on braking performance, while the Hankook delivers a more engaging handling experience.
iON evo AS SUV :
- -4% in dry braking
- +2% in dry handling (subj)
Noise/Comfort/Ride Quality
In noise, comfort, and ride quality, the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 scores 0.67 points higher than the Hankook iON evo AS SUV, which is about a 3% advantage. This indicates a noticeably smoother and more refined driving experience.
iON evo AS SUV :
- -3% in average of Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality.
Snow
In snow braking, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV stops 17.72 feet shorter than the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3, giving it a strong 21% advantage. It also accelerates better on snow, needing 10.96 feet less distance, which is a significant 45% improvement. This trend continues in handling, where the Hankook scores 1.92 points higher in subjective feel, translating to a massive 10% advantage.
On top of that, the Hankook is clearly quicker in snow handling lap time, beating the Pirelli by 7.94 seconds, or around a 14% advantage. Overall, the Hankook dominates in all key snow metrics, showing a clear focus on winter capability, while the Pirelli trails behind across braking, traction, and handling.
iON evo AS SUV :
- +21% in Snow braking
- +45% in Snow Acceleration
- +10% in Snow handling (subj)
- +14% in Snow handling (lap time)
Ice
In ice braking, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV stops 10.6 feet shorter than the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3, giving it a strong 22% advantage.
iON evo AS SUV :
- +22% in Ice braking
Mileage & UTQG ratings
Both tires have the same UTQG treadwear rating of 600, which means there is 0 difference (0%) in expected wear performance under controlled conditions. This aligns with their identical 50,000-mile warranty, so in terms of longevity, they are essentially equal.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirelli | Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 | All | 600 | AA | A |
| Hankook | iON evo AS SUV | All | 600 | A | A |
Price
For the 235/55R19 size, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV is $30 more expensive than the Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3, which translates to about a 12% price premium.
Tire size: 235/55R19
- Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 : $ 259
- iON evo AS SUV : $ 289
Difference: +12% more expensive for iON evo AS SUV.
Summary
From my perspective, both tires serve different priorities really well. The Pirelli Scorpion Zero AS Plus 3 stands out as a well-rounded all-season option with strong braking, comfort, and overall value, making it a reliable choice for everyday SUV drivers. On the other hand, the Hankook iON evo AS SUV brings a clear advantage in winter performance and a more modern, EV-focused approach, which is increasingly important as vehicles evolve.
In short, both tires are highly relevant in today’s SUV segment — one focusing on balanced real-world performance, the other pushing towards next-generation efficiency and all-weather capability.
Dr Edwin Pang