Kumho Crugen HP71 vs. Falken Ziex CT60 A/S : A Battle of All-Season SUV Supremacy: In our previous tire comparison battle, the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, a newly launched gem in 2023, showcased its exceptional prowess and dominated the old guard, the Cooper Endeavor Plus, leaving an indelible mark in the arena of all-season SUV tires. As we pivot to a new and thrilling face-off, the stage is set for a riveting battle between the formidable Kumho Crugen HP71 and the relentless Falken Ziex CT60 A/S.
The Kumho Crugen HP71 enters the ring with a solid reputation and a list of impressive features tailored for SUV drivers who demand performance, safety, and durability in their tires. Known for its excellent wet and dry traction, long-lasting tread life, and a ride quality that exudes comfort and stability, the Crugen HP71 is a tire that has consistently delivered outstanding performance across diverse road conditions.
As we gear up for this battle of all-season SUV titans, the anticipation is palpable. Will the Kumho Crugen HP71 uphold its legacy and prove its mettle against the formidable Falken Ziex CT60 A/S? Or will the Falken, riding high on its recent victory, continue its dominance and assert its place at the pinnacle of all-season SUV tire excellence?
Join us as we delve deep into the nuances of each tire’s performance, comparing and contrasting their strengths and weaknesses. We are in for a gripping contest, a tire showdown like no other, where only the best will prevail. Get ready for an epic battle of traction, durability, and all-round excellence. The Kumho Crugen HP71 vs Falken Ziex CT60 A/S battle is about to begin!
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Results: Kumho Crugen HP71 vs Falken Ziex CT60 A/S
Results below were taken from Tire Rack’s Testing Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tires 2023 test. A total of 3 tires were tested on Tire Rack’s proving ground. The graph below shows the comparison between Cooper Endeavor Plus vs Falken Ziex CT60 A/S based on the relevant performance category. The Endeavor Plus was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are classified as an all season tire, Tire Rack will include snow & ice in its testing portfolio. A detailed testing on snow including acceleration, braking & handling will be available after the 2023 winter season. The tire size of interest is a 265/60R18 which is a common tire size for Toyota Hilux 1500 & Ford Ranger. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a powerful 2022 Ford Explorer ST.
Wet
Tackling the unpredictable and slippery challenges that wet conditions bring to the road requires a tire that can confidently handle the elements. In the captivating duel between the Kumho Crugen HP71 and the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, it’s evident that both contenders are well-prepared, but nuances in performance set them apart.
- 🌧 Wet Braking – Stopping promptly and safely on wet surfaces is non-negotiable. The Kumho Crugen HP71 exhibits admirable stopping power, coming to a halt at 104.60 feet from 50-0 mph. However, the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, with a stopping distance of 107.10 feet, trails ever so slightly behind. In the crucial moments where every inch matters, the Crugen HP71 provides that extra bit of assurance.
- 🔄 Wet Handling – Subjective: The driver’s perception of control and stability during wet conditions is paramount. The Crugen HP71 earns a respectable 7.13 out of 10 in driver confidence, indicating a solid performance. The Ziex CT60 A/S, on the other hand, scores a slightly lower 6.97. While both tires deliver commendable grip and poise, the Crugen HP71 appears to instill a slightly higher sense of control and confidence in the driver.
- ⏱ Wet Handling – Lap Time: Circumnavigating a wet track demands precision and agility. The Crugen HP71 completes a lap in 33.39 seconds, demonstrating its swift and adept handling. The Ziex CT60 A/S, albeit a strong performer, takes a fraction longer at 33.67 seconds. In the battle against the clock and the elements, the Crugen HP71 shows that it has the speed and finesse to excel.
Crugen HP71:
The Crugen HP71 truly distinguished itself, dominating the objective evaluations with unmatched lateral grip and impressively brief braking distances. It didn’t just meet the mechanical traction needs of drivers; it exceeded them. Our evaluators also rated it top-notch for its on-track handling performance. Exhibiting precise steering response and a remarkable ability to change direction swiftly, combined with its superior grip in both lateral and longitudinal aspects, the Crugen HP71 not only posted faster lap times but also delivered a smoother and more controlled driving experience compared to its rivals.
Test driver feedback on Crugen HP71
Ziex CT60 A/S:
The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S showcased competitive side grip in comparison to the Kumho, and its braking distances were impressively close, only a few feet apart. However, it encountered some challenges in terms of driving dynamics while navigating turns. The team observed a desire for faster steering response and greater precision during the tight maneuvers. Nevertheless, the Falken performed well on the wet track, finishing just a fraction of a second behind the leading Kumho.
Test driver feedback on Ziex CT60 A/S
In summary, while both the Kumho Crugen HP71 and Falken Ziex CT60 A/S are strong contenders in wet conditions, it’s the Crugen HP71 that edges out the competition in this aquatic arena. With superior wet braking, a slight advantage in subjective handling, and a quicker lap time, the Kumho Crugen HP71 proves to be the tire of choice for drivers seeking unwavering performance and confidence on wet roads. 🏆
Ziex CT60 A/S :
- -2.3% in wet braking
- -0.8% in wet handling (subj)
- -0.8% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry
Under the beaming rays of a clear day, both the Kumho Crugen HP71 and the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S stand ready to deliver peak performance on dry roads. Let’s delve into the details of their dry condition capabilities to discern which tire emerges victorious.
- 🛑 Dry Braking – In critical moments where a quick stop is essential, the Kumho Crugen HP71 shines, bringing your vehicle to a halt from 50-0 mph in just 85.10 feet. While the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S also performs admirably, with a stopping distance of 87.40 feet, it slightly lags behind. The Crugen HP71’s impressive stopping power offers drivers that crucial bit of confidence and safety.
- 🔄 Dry Handling – Subjective: Grip, stability, and responsiveness are key when navigating dry roads. Drivers have spoken, rating the Kumho Crugen HP71 at an impressive 7.88 out of 10, indicating a highly satisfactory on-road experience. The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, earning a score of 7.28, puts up a strong fight but ultimately doesn’t quite match the subjective handling prowess of the Crugen HP71.
- ⏱ Dry Handling – Lap Time: Precision and speed are the names of the game on the track. The Kumho Crugen HP71 proves its mettle with a swift lap time of 31.15 seconds, showcasing its agility and control. The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S trails with a lap time of 32.16 seconds. In this race against the clock, the Crugen HP71 secures a clear advantage.
To sum it up, in the arena of dry conditions, the Kumho Crugen HP71 asserts its dominance, excelling in braking, subjective handling, and lap time. While the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S is a formidable opponent, the Crugen HP71 distinguishes itself as the go-to tire for exceptional dry road performance. 🏆
Ziex CT60 A/S :
- -2.6% in dry braking
- -3% in dry handling (subj)
- -3.1% in dry handling (lap time)
Noise/Comfort/Ride Quality
Step into the realm of NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) as we meticulously evaluate the Kumho Crugen HP71 and Falken Ziex CT60 A/S. For tire enthusiasts who prioritize not just performance but also the serenity and comfort of their drive, this comparison is tailored just for you!
- 🛣 Ride Quality – In the pursuit of a journey that’s as smooth as silk, the Kumho Crugen HP71 takes the lead, scoring an impressive 8 out of 10. It assures a ride that’s not just comfortable but also reassuringly stable. The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, though slightly behind, still provides a commendable performance with a score of 7.5. For those in search of a tire that offers a plush yet poised ride, the Crugen HP71 is the prime choice.
- 🔇 Noise – Tranquility on the road is non-negotiable, and here, it’s a dead heat between the two contenders. Both the Crugen HP71 and Ziex CT60 A/S have earned a stellar rating of 8.25 out of 10, ensuring that whether you’re navigating city chaos or cruising on the highway, your journey will be accompanied by a hushed and peaceful ambiance.
- 🏎 Steering and Road Handling – The connection between driver, vehicle, and road is pivotal, and the Kumho Crugen HP71 slightly edges out the competition with a score of 7.38 out of 10, providing a tad more precision and a responsive feel to the steering. The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, with a score of 7.13, is hot on its heels, ensuring a stable and controlled drive but just falling short of the Crugen HP71’s finesse.
- 📊 Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality (Average) – Averaging out the scores across all categories, the Kumho Crugen HP71 emerges as the tire that harmoniously blends performance, comfort, and tranquility, boasting an average score of 7.88. The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S, with a very respectable average of 7.63, proves itself a strong contender but ultimately trails behind the Crugen HP71.
In the domain of NVH, the verdict is clear: the Kumho Crugen HP71 stands out as the superior choice for drivers who seek a driving experience that’s as smooth and quiet as it is confidently controlled. The Crugen HP71 claims the crown in this nuanced battle of comfort and performance. 👑
Ziex CT60 A/S :
- -1.3% in average of Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality
Snow & Ice
We eagerly anticipate the forthcoming snow and ice performance test results for the Kumho Crugen HP71 and Falken Ziex CT60 A/S tires, scheduled for post-winter 2023. Your patience is greatly appreciated. Rest assured, we share your curiosity and are committed to providing a comprehensive analysis as soon as possible. Your road safety and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we aim to equip you with the information needed to make the best tire selection for your vehicle. Stay tuned for updates!
Wear
When we delve into the wear performance of all-season SUV tires, the Kumho Crugen HP71 and Falken Ziex CT60 A/S present an intriguing comparison, especially considering their respective UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) treadwear ratings.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kumho | Crugen HP71 | All | 640 | A | A |
| Falken | Ziex CT60 A/S | All | 600 | A | A |
The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S boasts a UTQG treadwear rating of 640, which is higher than the Kumho Crugen HP71’s rating of 600. Ordinarily, one might expect the tire with the higher UTQG rating to exhibit longer tread life. However, in practical application, the wear performance results tell a slightly different story.
Actual Tested Wear Results:
- Crugen HP71: 55,000 miles
- Ziex CT60 A/S : 60,000 miles
The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S has a projected tread life of 60,000 miles, which is certainly impressive and aligns well with its high UTQG rating. On the other hand, the Kumho Crugen HP71, despite its lower UTQG rating of 600, showcases commendable durability with a projected tread life of 55,000 miles. Interestingly, despite the difference in UTQG tread wear ratings, both tires come with a generous 65,000-mile warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance in your tire investment.
It’s worth noting that the actual wear performance of these tires does not align perfectly with the differences in their UTQG ratings. The gap in projected tread life is narrower than one might anticipate based on the UTQG values alone. This discrepancy highlights a crucial point: while UTQG ratings can provide valuable insights, they are not the sole determinant of a tire’s wear performance, and real-world results are essential for a comprehensive understanding.
Price
In a concise comparison of tire prices for the size 265/60 R18, the Crugen HP71 is priced at $192, while the Ziex CT60 A/S comes in slightly higher at $200. This makes the Crugen HP71 about 4% more affordable than the Ziex CT60 A/S.
Tire size: 265/60 R18
- Crugen HP71: $192
- Ziex CT60 A/S : $200
Difference: -4% more cheaper for Ziex CT60 A/S.
Summary
Despite the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S having a projected 5,000 miles longevity advantage, I firmly believe that the Kumho Crugen HP71 emerges as the superior choice when considering its comprehensive performance in wet and dry conditions, as well as its superior NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) ratings. Its affordability is an added bonus. However, it’s important to stay tuned for the pending winter performance results, as these could offer additional insights and further solidify the Crugen HP71’s standing as the preferable option for your vehicle.
Dr Edwin Pang