Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs. Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3: The Ultimate All-Season Duel! –> Prepare for a clash of the titans, as two of the most esteemed tire behemoths gear up for a head-to-head challenge, a fight for supremacy in the all-season arena. Presenting Hankook’s Kinergy 4S2 and Goodyear’s Vector 4Seasons Gen 3!
The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 brings to the table a legacy of precision, technology, and performance. It’s not just a tire; it’s a work of art meticulously crafted to ensure optimum grip on both wet and dry surfaces. With its advanced tread pattern, the Kinergy 4S2 promises enhanced wet braking capabilities and longevity, ensuring drivers are ready for any twist or turn the weather has in store.
On the other side, we have the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3. A successor to its already renowned predecessors, it encapsulates Goodyear’s commitment to innovation and safety. Known for its brilliant traction in various weather conditions and the ingenious Snow Grip Technology, the Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 not only assures a smooth ride but also commands respect on snow-covered roads.
Now, as the winter snowflakes prepare to kiss the asphalt and the summer sun heats up the horizon, there’s a storm brewing in the tire world. The 3-peak mountain symbol, which stands for all-season prowess, becomes the battleground where these two giants will vie for dominance. Which one will conquer the mountain and be crowned the ultimate all-season champion? Gear up, and let the games begin! The air is electric with anticipation. The epic battle for all-season supremacy is here! Buckle up; it’s going to be a thrilling ride!
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Results: Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3
Results below were taken from the 2023 Tyre Reviews All Season Tyre Test. A total of 12 tires were tested this time around with an intriguing winter & summer refence to gauge the all season performances. The graph below shows the comparison between Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 based on the relevant performance category. The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are categorized as all season tires with a 3 peak mountain logo on it, an extensive snow testing was conducted. However ice testing was left out which was quite disappointing to our dismay. Note that for subjective comfort evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. The tire size of interest is a 195/65 R15 which is a common tire size for Toyota Corolla Altis and Volkswagen Beetle. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Volkswagen Golf.
Wet Performance Face-Off
In the world of tires, it is of paramount importance to assess performance under wet conditions, especially when evaluating top contenders like the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3. After rigorous testing, it became evident that the showdown between these two all-season giants could best be described as a tale of wet braking versus wet handling.
Wet Braking:
In the braking test, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 demonstrated a slight advantage, bringing vehicles to a halt at 29.56 meters compared to the 30.09 meters clocked by the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3. It might not seem like much, but in critical situations, every centimeter counts.
Wet Handling:
Switching the narrative, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 turned the tables in the wet handling category. With a lap time of 57.97 seconds, it narrowly outperformed the Hankook Kinergy 4S2’s 59.53 seconds. Subjective scores further solidified Goodyear’s dominance in this category, with the Gen 3 securing a perfect 10 out of 10, versus the 9.8 points attained by the Kinergy 4S2.
Aquaplaning:
Aquaplaning performance clearly favored the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3. Testing indicated that the Gen 3 began to slip at an impressive 91.6 km/h, while the Kinergy 4S2 trailed behind, starting to lose grip at 88.5 km/h.
Conclusion:
In this head-to-head wet performance battle, it’s evident that each tire has its strong suit. While the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 shone brightly in the wet braking domain, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 showcased superior handling prowess, especially evident in the subjective scoring. The Gen 3 also decisively led the aquaplaning arena. Thus, potential buyers must weigh the importance of these individual attributes based on their driving habits and conditions. In the wet realms of braking and handling, these two take turns to dominate, making the choice all the more intriguing.
Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 :
- -2% in wet braking
- +3% in wet handling (lap time)
- +1% in wet handling (subj)
- +4% in straight aquaplaning
Dry Performance Face-Off
When it comes to assessing the prowess of tires under dry conditions, our comparison between the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 reveals some intriguing insights.
Dry Braking:
The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 clearly asserted its dominance in the dry braking test. Vehicles fitted with the 4S2 came to a full stop at 39.79 meters, whereas those sporting the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 needed 41.57 meters. This clear margin in braking distance marks the 4S2 as the top performer in this aspect.
Dry Handling:
When we look at dry handling times, the results are much closer, showcasing the prowess of both contenders. The Kinergy 4S2 came in at 75.4 seconds, marginally edging out the Vector 4Seasons Gen 3, which completed the lap at 75.55 seconds. It’s a tight race, but the 4S2 takes the lead, albeit by a whisker.
Subjective Dry Handling:
Subjective assessments of dry handling awarded both tires a perfect score, with each tire securing a full 10 out of 10 points. This indicates that drivers felt equally confident and satisfied with the performance of both tires under dry conditions from a subjective feel and response perspective.
Conclusion:
While the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 has showcased commendable prowess under wet conditions, in the realm of dry performance, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 clearly emerged as the favorite. With superior dry braking capabilities and marginally better handling times, the 4S2 firmly establishes its dominance under dry conditions. For drivers who prioritize dry road performance, the 4S2 seems to be the preferred choice, making it an exciting option to consider.
Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 :
- -4% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (lap time)
- 0% in dry handling (subj)
Snow Performance Showdown
The snow test, a crucial determinant of a tire’s cold-weather capabilities, serves as a testament to its design, technology, and functionality. In this icy battle between the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3, the pendulum of performance swings once more. Let’s delve into the chilly details.
Snow Braking:
In this face-off, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 marginally edges out its competitor. Vehicles fitted with the Gen 3 managed to stop from speed at a distance of 19.16 meters, while those equipped with the Kinergy 4S2 took a slightly longer 19.52 meters. Though close, the Goodyear displays its snow proficiency in this round.
Snow Traction (Acceleration):
The acceleration test on snow further bolsters the Gen 3’s prowess. Achieving an acceleration time of 5.82 seconds from 5 to 40 km/h, the Goodyear outperformed the Hankook’s 6.03 seconds, highlighting the Gen 3’s superior traction in snow-clad conditions.
Snow Handling:
Continuing its win streak in snowy realms, the Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 displayed superior handling with a lap time of 85.78 seconds, besting the Kinergy 4S2’s 88.34 seconds. The time difference, while not drastic, still underscores the Goodyear’s more adept snow performance.
Subjective Snow Handling:
When drivers were asked to rate their experiences, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 continued to shine, securing 9.8 out of 10 points. The Kinergy 4S2, while commendable, trailed slightly with a score of 9.5 points. The subjective assessments reinforce the objective data, affirming the Gen 3’s superior feel on snowy terrains.
Conclusion:
In the frosty showdown of snow performance, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 emerges as the snow king, flexing its muscles in every test. From braking to traction and handling, it consistently outperformed the Hankook Kinergy 4S2. For drivers venturing into snowy terrains or facing unpredictable winter conditions, the Gen 3 presents a compelling case, reaffirming its cold-weather expertise. The pendulum swings once again, and in the winter’s embrace, it’s the Goodyear’s turn to shine.
Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 :
- +2% in snow braking
- +4% in snow traction
- +3% in snow handling (lap times)
- +1.5% in snow handling (subj)
Subjective Comfort Face-Off
Comfort on the road, while it might be subjective, is an essential factor for many drivers. It speaks to the overall experience of the ride, from noise levels to the feel on varied terrains. When comparing the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 based on subjective comfort scores, the results were indeed neck-and-neck.
Subj. Comfort:
Drivers felt nearly equivalent levels of comfort with both tires. The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 scored an impressive 9.8 out of 10 points. It clearly offers a smooth and plush driving experience that most users appreciate.
However, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 managed to eke out a slight edge, achieving a perfect score of 10 points. This indicates that, at least for some drivers, the Gen 3 might offer that tiny bit of extra cushion or reduced noise that edges it into the top spot.
Conclusion:
In the realm of comfort, the difference between the two tire giants is razor-thin. While the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 clinches the top spot with its flawless score, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 trails right behind, offering an almost equally plush ride. For potential buyers, the comfort difference between these two might be negligible. It’s a testament to how both tire manufacturers have prioritized and successfully achieved high levels of comfort in their products. It’s truly a matter of splitting hairs when it comes to the coziest ride.
Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 :
- +1% in subjective comfort
Rolling Resistance
In the rolling resistance test, which assesses energy efficiency and potential fuel savings, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 showcased a slight advantage with a score of 7.88 N/kN, compared to the Hankook Kinergy 4S2’s 8 N/kN. This margin, albeit small, indicates the Goodyear’s superior efficiency in this particular aspect.
Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 :
- +2% in rolling resistance
Price
For the tire size 205/55 R16, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 is priced at €59, making it a more budget-friendly option. In comparison, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 is priced at €73, which is approximately 19% more expensive. Consumers will need to weigh the performance attributes and their specific needs against this price difference when making a purchase decision.
Tire size: 205/55 R16
- Kinergy 4S2 : €59
- Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 : €73
Difference: +19% more expensive for Vector 4Seasons Gen 33.
Expert’s Verdict on Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3
Having spent years in the tire industry, analyzing every nuance and detail of performance, I can confidently say that the battle between the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 is one of the closest I’ve ever witnessed. Truly, it’s a duel where minor details tip the balance.
If your primary concern revolves around summer performance, especially with wet and dry braking capabilities, then the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 stands out. Its prowess in these domains is undeniable and would serve you exceptionally well under the scorching sun and torrential downpours.
However, if you’re looking for a more holistic tire that shines in snowy conditions while also delivering impressive summer handling characteristics, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 is hard to beat. It’s a tire that wears its versatility as a badge of honor, ensuring you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at you.
Dr Edwin Pang
At the end of the day, it all boils down to what nuances matter the most to you. Each of these tires excels in its respective strengths, and the choice will ultimately be a reflection of your specific driving conditions and preferences. Safe travels!