Brief Introduction to Hankook Tires as a Company
Are Hankook tires Good ? : Hankook Tire & Technology, known simply as Hankook, is a leading global tire company headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. Founded in 1941, it was originally named Chosun Tire Company before changing its name to Hankook Tire Manufacturing in 1968. Today, Hankook is recognized as the 7th largest tire company globally, serving customers in over 180 countries around the world. The company’s tire product range spans from cars, light trucks, SUVs to large commercial vehicles, demonstrating a broad and diverse product lineup.
Importance of Tire Selection in Vehicle Performance and Safety
Tires, often overlooked, are one of the most vital components of a vehicle. They are the only part of the vehicle that makes contact with the road, playing a fundamental role in how a car performs and ensuring the safety of its occupants. The right tire can enhance your vehicle’s performance, provide better fuel efficiency, ensure a smoother ride, and offer optimum grip during different weather conditions. Therefore, the importance of choosing a high-quality tire cannot be overemphasized.
In the pursuit of purchasing a new set of tires, consumers are often swamped with a wide array of brands, each claiming superiority over the other. One name that frequently comes up in these conversations is Hankook. Known for its quality and innovation, Hankook has established a significant presence in the tire industry. But the question that most consumers have is, “Are Hankook tires good?”
This question forms the foundation of our review. We aim to provide an unbiased and comprehensive analysis of Hankook’s tire range, based on factual data and consumer reviews. The ultimate goal is to offer insights that will help consumers make informed decisions when considering Hankook as their next tire purchase. Stay tuned as we delve into the world of Hankook tires.
Table of Contents
Overview of Hankook Tires
Company History: Origin and Global Presence
Hankook Tire & Technology was born in the midst of the Korean War in 1941 as the Chosun Tire Company, the first tire company in Korea. Over the ensuing decades, the company underwent multiple transformations, culminating in the global brand known today as Hankook. Renamed in 1968, Hankook Tire Manufacturing began expanding its footprint beyond Korean borders and ventured into the international market.
Fast forward to the present day, Hankook enjoys a global presence in over 180 countries. With its innovative technology and commitment to sustainability, Hankook continues to enhance its status as a global top-tier tire company, manufacturing approximately 102 million tires a year as of 2020.
Range of Tire Categories: from Passenger Vehicles to Commercial Trucks
Hankook offers a diverse range of tire categories designed to meet a variety of consumer needs. The product portfolio includes tires for passenger cars, SUVs, light trucks, high-performance vehicles, winter conditions, and commercial vehicles. This versatility has enabled Hankook to cater to the varying requirements of drivers worldwide.
Technological Advancements: A Look at Hankook’s Research and Development
One of Hankook’s key strengths lies in its commitment to research and development. The company has established multiple R&D centers across the globe – in Korea, Germany, China, Japan, and the United States. These centers focus on developing advanced tire technologies to enhance durability, fuel efficiency, safety, and performance. Hankook’s technological innovations include the Kontrol Technology, which is its core philosophy that integrates R&D, production, sales, and services. Hankook is also renowned for its environmentally-friendly tire solutions. It’s ‘Enfren’ range, for instance, uses silica compounds to reduce rolling resistance, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions.
In the next chapter, we will delve deeper into the specifics of the Hankook tire range, breaking down the offerings for each category, the key features, and how they fare according to expert and consumer reviews.
Detailed Analysis of Hankook Tires
Results
Ideally, you would want a head-to-head test result to demonstrate the distinct performance differences between the products. However, in this instance, no test results are available that compare all these products head to head, due to clear segmentation. Fortunately, Consumer Report has a portfolio of different segment tires tested, allowing us to use their ratings to assess the performance of each. Please note that Consumer Report’s rating system uses a maximum score of 5, with a 5/5 rating representing the best possible achievement. We will breakdown the question of “Are Hankook tires Good ?” with an in depth analysis of Hankook’s tires based on the relevant segmentation.
Grand touring all season tires (M+S):
Hankook Kinergy PT
The Hankook Kinergy PT is a part of the Grand Touring All-Season (M+S) tire range from Hankook. This category combines year-round traction, handling, and comfort with long tread life. The Kinergy PT is designed to provide a smooth and quiet ride with reliable traction in most weather conditions, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of passenger vehicles.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 4th out of 8 with 63 points
- Tire Rack: Not rated yet.
- Actual tested mileage: 85,000 miles, 1st–100%
- Strength: Good overall balance
- Weakness: Poor wet braking
Based on the Consumer Reports’ tire ranking, the Hankook Kinergy PT secured the 4th position out of 8, earning a total of 63 points. This suggests that while the tire performs well in several areas, it doesn’t top the list in this competitive category. At the time of writing, the tire has not yet been rated on Tire Rack, another reputable tire review and rating platform. Thus, we lack additional comparative data from that source.
The actual tested mileage for the Kinergy PT is 85,000 miles, which places it first in terms of tread life within this category. This impressive mileage is a testament to the tire’s durability and longevity, making it a potential choice for drivers who value long-lasting performance. In terms of strengths, the Hankook Kinergy PT boasts good overall balance. This includes providing a smooth, quiet ride, reliable dry traction, and good handling.
However, no tire is without its drawbacks. The Kinergy PT has been noted for its weakness in wet braking. This indicates that while it performs admirably in many respects, it may struggle to stop as promptly on wet surfaces.
In conclusion, the Hankook Kinergy PT is a good tire in many aspects, especially when considering its overall balance and exceptional tread life. Nevertheless, its performance in wet conditions, particularly in terms of braking, might be a concern for some drivers. As with any tire purchase, it’s important to consider your specific driving conditions and requirements before deciding if the Kinergy PT is the best fit for you. Stay tuned as we continue to explore more of Hankook’s tire offerings in the upcoming chapters.
Price
- 225/65R17 : $171
Grand touring all season tires (3 peak mountain)
Hankook Kinergy 4s2
3 peak mountain certified tireline
In the Grand Touring All-Season tire category, another notable offering from Hankook is the Kinergy 4S2, distinguished by its 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating its superior performance in severe snow conditions. The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 is designed to offer a blend of all-season performance and winter capabilities, making it an all-around performer for various weather conditions. This tire’s unique feature lies in its 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, which is a signifier of enhanced winter performance.
When we turn our attention to the ratings, the Kinergy 4S2 holds a respectable third position out of 18 in the Consumer Reports’ rankings, scoring 67 points. This position indicates a strong performance compared to many other tires in the Grand Touring All-Season category. Like the previously discussed Kinergy PT, the Kinergy 4S2 has not been rated on Tire Rack at the time of this review.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 3rd out of 18 with 67 points
- Tire Rack: Not rated yet.
- Actual tested mileage: 55,000 miles, 14th– 65%
- Strength: Good snow traction.
- Weakness: Poor noise
Actual tested mileage for the Kinergy 4S2 is approximately 55,000 miles, ranking it 14th in its category, translating to a score of 65%. While it does not match the impressive mileage of the Kinergy PT, it still delivers a decent lifespan, suitable for drivers looking for a balance between performance and durability. One of the defining strengths of the Kinergy 4S2 is its excellent snow traction, thanks to the 3PMSF designation. This means the tire performs exceptionally well in snowy conditions, providing reliable grip and control, essential qualities for drivers in colder climates or those facing unpredictable weather.
However, the Kinergy 4S2 has been noted for its weakness in terms of noise. Based on the test results, it was reported that this tire tends to be louder compared to some of its competitors in the same category. This factor may influence drivers who prioritize a quiet and comfortable ride.
In conclusion, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 is a commendable tire, especially for its good snow traction, a critical feature for drivers facing snowy conditions. However, its relative lack of quietness and lower mileage compared to some competitors may be points of consideration for some drivers. Like any tire purchase, understanding your specific driving needs, weather conditions, and preferences are paramount in determining whether the Kinergy 4S2 is the ideal choice for you. As we proceed in this review, we will explore more tire options offered by Hankook.
- Kinergy 4s2
- Launch: 2018
- Press test wins: 2/18
- Strength: Good snow traction
Check out our head to head comparison of Kinergy 4s2 against its competitors.
Kinergy 4s2 vs
Price
- 225/40R18 : $215
Ultra High Performance All-Season:
Hankook Ventus S1 noble 2
As we move into the performance category of Hankook’s tire offerings, one model that demands attention is the Hankook Ventus S1 noble2. Designed for high-performance vehicles, these tires are crafted to deliver a blend of style, performance, and all-season traction. The Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 is a part of Hankook’s Ultra High-Performance All-Season tire range. It’s designed for drivers of sports cars, sports coupes, and high-performance sedans who want to enjoy driving their vehicles year-round.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 12th out of 20 with 59 points
- Tire Rack: Not rated yet.
- Actual tested mileage: 45,000 miles, 14th– 70%
- Strength: Hydroplaning.
- Weakness: Rolling Resistance
In the Consumer Reports’ ranking for Ultra High-Performance All-Season tires, the Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 stands 12th out of 20 models with 59 points. While this doesn’t put it at the top of the list, it does suggest decent performance in its class. As with the previous models discussed, the Ventus S1 noble2 has not been rated on Tire Rack at the time of this review.
The actual tested mileage of the Ventus S1 noble2 is about 45,000 miles, placing it 14th in its category, with a score of 70%. Although not top-ranking, it still offers a reasonable lifespan, particularly for an ultra-high-performance tire, which often trades longevity for improved performance characteristics. One of the key strengths of the Ventus S1 noble2 is its superior hydroplaning resistance. This means it is designed to effectively disperse water under the tire in wet conditions, reducing the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
However, the tire has been noted for its relatively high rolling resistance. High rolling resistance can negatively impact fuel efficiency as it requires more energy to keep the tire rolling. Therefore, while the Ventus S1 noble2 delivers in terms of performance and hydroplaning resistance, it may slightly compromise fuel economy.
In conclusion, the Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 presents a compelling option in the Ultra High-Performance All-Season category, especially for drivers who often drive in wet conditions. However, its relatively high rolling resistance and middle-of-the-pack mileage may be a consideration for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and longer tire life. As with all tire selections, individual driving habits, vehicle specifications, and personal preferences will play a vital role in determining if this tire is the right fit. Stay tuned as we continue to delve into more of Hankook’s offerings.
Price
- 245/45R18 : $193
Ultra High Performance Summer:
Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3
In the realm of ultra-high-performance summer tires, Hankook’s offering is the Ventus S1 evo3. These tires are intended for sporty, high-performance vehicles and are designed to provide superior dry and wet traction, handling, and braking during the summer months. The Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 is part of Hankook’s Ultra High-Performance Summer tire range. It is engineered for drivers of high-performance cars, sports cars, and sporty coupes who want a tire that delivers exhilarating performance and exceptional control during the warmer months.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 6th out of 11 with 68 points
- Tire Rack: Not rated yet.
- Actual tested mileage: 35,000 miles, 7th– 54%
- Strength: Dry & wet braking, wet handling
- Weakness: Ride comfort & rolling resistance
In the Consumer Reports’ ranking for Ultra High-Performance Summer tires, the Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 lands in the 6th spot out of 11 contenders with a score of 68 points. This performance suggests that while the Ventus S1 evo3 might not be the top performer in its category, it still delivers solid performance. Again, as with other models, the Ventus S1 evo3 has not been rated on Tire Rack at the time of this review.
The actual tested mileage of the Ventus S1 evo3 comes in at approximately 35,000 miles, placing it 7th in its category with a score of 54%. This mileage is reasonably good for ultra-high-performance summer tires, which typically prioritize performance over longevity. Strengths of the Ventus S1 evo3 are prominently featured in both dry and wet conditions, particularly in terms of braking and handling. This suggests the tire performs excellently in maintaining grip and control on both dry and wet surfaces, key qualities for high-performance driving.
However, the Ventus S1 evo3 has been identified as having weaknesses in ride comfort and rolling resistance. This means that while the tire delivers in terms of performance, it may be slightly less comfortable due to a stiffer ride, a common trade-off for high-performance tires. In addition, similar to the Ventus S1 noble2, its high rolling resistance could lead to less than optimal fuel efficiency.
In conclusion, the Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 is a solid contender in the Ultra High-Performance Summer tire category, especially considering its dry and wet braking and handling capabilities. However, its compromises in ride comfort and fuel efficiency due to high rolling resistance might be significant considerations for certain drivers. As always, making an informed choice about tires depends on your specific driving style, vehicle type, and personal preferences. We will continue to explore other Hankook tire models in the following chapters.
- Ventus S1 evo 3
- Launch: 2019
- Press test wins: 0/22
- Strength: Dry & wet braking, wet handling
Check out our head to head comparison of Ventus S1 evo 3 against its competitors.
Ventus S1 evo 3 vs
- Continental PremiumContact 7
- Bridgestone Potenza Sport (wear included !)
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
- Michelin Pilot Sport 5
Price
- 265/35R19 : $289
All Terrain Truck:
Hankook Dynapro AT2
Within the all-terrain truck tire category, one of Hankook’s noteworthy offerings is the Dynapro AT2. These tires are specifically designed to handle a wide range of terrains and conditions while ensuring a comfortable ride for truck and SUV drivers. The Hankook Dynapro AT2 is an all-terrain tire intended for drivers of trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles. Offering a balance of on-road civility and off-road capability, the Dynapro AT2 is designed to provide reliable performance across various terrains and in different weather conditions.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 12th out of 18 with 55 points
- Tire Rack: 14th out of 23 with 89% of the best in the category.
- Actual tested mileage: 60,000 miles, 5th– 60%
- Strength: Snow traction
- Weakness: Wet braking
In the Consumer Reports’ ranking for All-Terrain Truck tires, the Dynapro AT2 comes in 12th out of 18 models with 55 points. While it doesn’t take the lead in this category, this ranking suggests decent performance among all-terrain truck tires. On Tire Rack, another respected tire rating platform, the Dynapro AT2 is ranked 14th out of 23 and scores 89% of the best in the category. This indicates a competitive performance, albeit not among the top tires in this segment.
The actual tested mileage for the Dynapro AT2 is approximately 60,000 miles, placing it in 5th place in this category with a score of 60%. This shows that the tire offers a good balance of ruggedness for off-road use and durability for long-lasting performance. A notable strength of the Dynapro AT2 is its commendable snow traction, a critical factor for drivers who need to navigate in snowy or icy conditions. This demonstrates Hankook’s commitment to safety and performance, even in challenging weather conditions.
However, similar to other models discussed, the Dynapro AT2 has been marked down for its wet braking performance. This indicates that while the tire performs well on various terrains and in snow, it may take longer to stop on wet surfaces.
In conclusion, the Hankook Dynapro AT2 offers a good blend of on and off-road capabilities, with significant strengths in snow traction. However, its wet braking performance might be a consideration for drivers who frequently drive in rainy conditions. As with any tire selection, it is crucial to consider your specific driving conditions, vehicle type, and personal preferences to make the best choice. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into Hankook’s tire offerings in the following chapters.
Price
- 265/70R17 : $216
All Season Truck:
Hankook Dynapro HT
In the all-season truck tire segment, Hankook’s notable offering is the Dynapro HT. This tire is designed to provide consistent performance, durability, and comfort for truck and SUV drivers throughout the year. The Hankook Dynapro HT is an all-season tire engineered for drivers of light trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles. Offering a blend of long tread life, comfortable ride, and all-season traction, the Dynapro HT is designed to provide solid performance in a variety of conditions throughout the year.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 7th out of 13 with 54 points
- Tire Rack: 33 out of 55 with 80% of the best in the category.
- Actual tested mileage: 60,000 miles, 8th– 63%
- Strength: Hydroplaning
- Weakness: Wet braking
In the Consumer Reports’ ranking for All-Season Truck tires, the Dynapro HT secures the 7th spot out of 13 models with a score of 54 points. While not leading the pack, this ranking suggests a decent performance in its class. On Tire Rack, the Dynapro HT is ranked 33rd out of 55 models and scores 80% of the best in its category. While not a top-tier tire on this platform, it still demonstrates a competitive performance amongst numerous models. The actual tested mileage for the Dynapro HT is approximately 60,000 miles, making it the 8th in its category with a score of 63%. This indicates that the tire offers a good lifespan, providing value and dependability for users over extended periods.
The Dynapro HT shines in its resistance to hydroplaning. This means it is designed to effectively reduce the risk of losing control on wet roads by effectively dispersing water, enhancing safety in rainy conditions. However, the Dynapro HT has been noted for its weakness in wet braking. This suggests that while the tire performs well in resisting hydroplaning, it may not offer the quickest stopping performance on wet surfaces.
In conclusion, the Hankook Dynapro HT is a solid choice in the All-Season Truck tire category, particularly due to its hydroplaning resistance and overall lifespan. However, its wet braking performance may be a point of consideration for drivers frequently encountering wet conditions. As always, understanding your specific driving needs, vehicle type, and personal preferences is key to determining whether the Dynapro HT is the right tire for you. We will continue to explore more of Hankook’s offerings in our subsequent chapters.
Price
- 265/70R16 : $173
Winter :
Hankook Winter i*cept evo 3
When it comes to winter tires, Hankook’s standout offering is the Winter i*cept evo 3. This tire is designed to provide maximum traction and control in harsh winter conditions, enabling safe and reliable driving in snow and ice. The Hankook Winter i*cept evo 3 is a winter tire specifically engineered for drivers of sports cars, sporty coupes, and high-performance sedans. With a design focus on strong winter performance, this tire is intended to offer dependable traction and control in challenging winter weather.
Press Test Rankings:
- Consumer Report: 2nd out of 7 with 75 points
- Tire Rack: –
- Actual tested mileage: –
- Strength: Snow, Ice & Hydroplaning
- Weakness: Rolling Resistance
In the Consumer Reports’ ranking for winter tires, the Winter i*cept evo 3 secures an impressive 2nd spot out of 7 models, with a high score of 75 points. This performance indicates that the Winter i*cept evo 3 stands out as one of the top choices in its class for winter performance. At the time of this review, the Winter i*cept evo 3 has not been rated on Tire Rack, and actual tested mileage information is also unavailable.
The strengths of the Winter i*cept evo 3 lie in its performance on snow, ice, and in hydroplaning resistance. This suggests the tire excels at maintaining grip and control under challenging winter conditions, providing confidence to drivers navigating through snow and ice. Its effective hydroplaning resistance further enhances its safety profile in wet and slushy conditions, a key feature for any winter tire.
However, the Winter i*cept evo 3 shares a common weakness with several other Hankook models — high rolling resistance. As discussed in previous sections, high rolling resistance can negatively impact fuel efficiency, as it requires more energy to keep the tire rolling.
In conclusion, the Hankook Winter i*cept evo 3 emerges as a strong contender in the winter tire category, offering excellent performance in snow, ice, and wet conditions. However, its high rolling resistance could be a trade-off for some drivers, especially those concerned with fuel economy. As we have reiterated, the choice of tires should be made considering your specific driving needs, vehicle type, and personal preferences. We will continue to explore other offerings from Hankook in the following chapters.
Price
- 235/45R18 : $224
Overall Quality, Pricing, and Customer Satisfaction of Hankook Tires
Quality of Hankook Tires
Across different tire categories, from passenger car tires to high-performance, all-season truck, and winter tires, Hankook shows consistency in providing good quality tires. As observed in our detailed analysis, several Hankook tires have performed well in both Consumer Reports and Tire Rack evaluations, often ranking in the middle or upper range of their respective categories.
Although there are variations across individual models, common strengths of Hankook tires include good overall balance, impressive snow traction, effective hydroplaning resistance, and strong performance in dry and wet conditions. However, it’s also important to note some recurring weaknesses, such as wet braking performance and high rolling resistance, which could impact fuel efficiency.
Pricing of Hankook Tires
Compared to other tire brands in the same categories, Hankook offers competitive pricing. This affordability, combined with the decent quality of their products, makes Hankook a popular choice among consumers looking for value for their money. However, the price can vary significantly depending on the specific tire model, size, and retailer, so it’s always recommended to shop around for the best deal.
Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction with Hankook tires tends to be relatively high. Many users appreciate the good performance-to-price ratio, offering a balance of quality and affordability. Additionally, several models have received positive feedback for their long tread life and solid performance in various conditions.
However, some customers have raised concerns about certain aspects, such as wet braking performance and rolling resistance. Therefore, while Hankook tires may not be the top choice for every driver, they are a viable option for those seeking reliable performance at a competitive price.
Conclusions
Overall, are Hankook tires good? The answer largely depends on the specific requirements of the driver, vehicle, and driving conditions. Hankook offers a wide range of tire models, each with its strengths and weaknesses, and generally provides good quality at an affordable price. It’s crucial for consumers to consider their specific needs and compare different tire options to make an informed decision.
Conclusions – Are Hankook Tires Good?
Recap
In our exploration of Hankook’s tire offerings across different categories, we’ve seen that the company consistently offers competitive products with decent performance and features. While not every Hankook tire tops the charts in all areas, many perform well in their respective categories and offer specific strengths that can meet a variety of driver needs.
Strengths
Hankook tires have shown notable strengths in areas such as snow traction, dry and wet handling, and hydroplaning resistance, depending on the specific model. Many of their tires have been praised for their long tread life and overall balanced performance. They also tend to offer good quality at a relatively affordable price, providing value for many consumers.
Weaknesses
However, certain weaknesses have been observed across different models, including poor wet braking performance and high rolling resistance. These factors could affect a driver’s safety and vehicle’s fuel efficiency, respectively. Therefore, these aspects should be considered alongside the tires’ strengths when choosing the right tire for your vehicle.
Customer Satisfaction and Pricing
Customer satisfaction with Hankook is generally high, with many users appreciating the good performance-to-price ratio. The competitive pricing of Hankook tires, combined with their overall good quality, makes them a popular choice for many drivers.
Final Verdict
So, are Hankook tires good? The answer largely depends on individual driving needs, vehicle type, and personal preferences. While Hankook may not be the best choice for every driver, their wide range of offerings and competitive pricing make them a viable option for many. As with any tire purchase, it’s essential to consider your specific requirements, compare different models, and choose the one that best fits your needs. Hankook, as a global tire brand, continues to invest in technology and innovation to improve their products’ performance and safety features. Thus, they remain a brand to watch in the tire industry.
Future Outlook for Hankook Tires and Closing Thoughts
Innovation and Future Development
Hankook is continuously engaged in the development and advancement of its products. The company is investing in research and technology to improve the performance, safety, and sustainability of their tires. They are also exploring new materials and designs to enhance durability, efficiency, and handling in various conditions. Consumers can expect to see new models and improvements to existing lines in the future.
Sustainability Initiatives
As part of its corporate responsibility, Hankook is also focusing on sustainability. The company is looking into eco-friendly manufacturing processes and developing tires that contribute to fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. These efforts not only help the environment but also can lead to cost savings for the consumers in the long term.
Expansion Plans
Hankook has seen consistent growth and expansion over the years, with its products being available in many parts of the world. They continue to increase their market presence and aim to strengthen their position as a leading global tire manufacturer.
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, while Hankook tires may have some weaknesses, their strengths—such as overall balance, impressive snow traction, and hydroplaning resistance—make them a good option for many drivers. When combined with their competitive pricing and a wide range of offerings, it’s clear why they have a strong presence in the global tire market.
It’s important for consumers to keep in mind their specific driving needs, road conditions, and vehicle type when selecting tires. As always, remember that no single tire is the best fit for everyone; the best tire for you is the one that meets your individual requirements and preferences.
As Hankook continues to innovate and improve, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this dynamic tire manufacturer. Their commitment to quality, performance, and sustainability make them a brand worth considering for your next tire purchase.