Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3: The Hankook Kinergy 4S2, launched in 2018, and the Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3, introduced in 2024, represent two different generations of all-season tire innovation. The Kinergy 4S2 has proven itself as a reliable choice over the years, while the SF3 enters the scene with fresh technology and the latest advancements. Will the seasoned Kinergy 4S2 hold its ground, or will the cutting-edge SF3 dominate the all-season segment? Let the ultimate battle of versatility and year-round performance begin!
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Results: Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3
Results below were taken from 2024 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tire Test with a total of 12 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 based on the relevant performance category. The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about the middle European winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, snow performances was tested. The tire size of interest is 245/45 R18 which is a common tire size for Jaguar XF and BMW 520i. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a CUPRA Formentor.
Wet
The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 stops 0.5 meters shorter than the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 in wet braking, demonstrating slightly better performance. However, in wet handling, the Kinergy 4S2 maintains an edge with a speed of 83.4 km/h, 1 km/h faster than the SF3. When it comes to straight aquaplaning resistance, the SF3 outperforms, holding steady at 75.4 km/h compared to the Kinergy 4S2’s 74.1 km/h.
Cinturato All Season SF3 :
- +1% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling (average lap speed)
- +2% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 outperforms the Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 in snow braking, stopping 1.5 meters shorter. In snow traction, the SF3 generates 101 N more pulling force, showing better grip. For snow handling, the Kinergy 4S2 holds a slight advantage, maintaining a speed of 53.9 km/h, 0.4 km/h faster than the SF3.
Cinturato All Season SF3 :
- -6% in snow braking
- +3% in snow traction
- -1% in snow handling (average lap speed)
Dry
The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 outshines the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 in dry braking, stopping 2.6 meters shorter. In dry handling, the Kinergy 4S2 edges ahead, maintaining a speed of 114.2 km/h, which is 0.5 km/h faster than the SF3.
Cinturato All Season SF3 :
- +7% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (average lap speed)
Noise
The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 is quieter than the Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3, producing 0.9 dB less exterior noise.
Cinturato All Season SF3 :
- -1% in exterior noise (-1.2 dB)
Rolling Resistance
The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 has significantly lower rolling resistance, measuring 1.53 N/kN less than the Hankook Kinergy 4S2, indicating better fuel efficiency.
Cinturato All Season SF3 :
- +22% in rolling resistance
Price
The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 is priced at €171, making it 10% cheaper than the Hankook Kinergy 4S2, which costs €189 for the 245/45R18 size.
Tire size: 245/45R18
- Cinturato All Season SF3 : € 171
Difference: -10% more cheaper for Cinturato All Season SF3
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
As a tire expert, I can confidently say that both the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 and Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 excel in their own ways. The Kinergy 4S2 impresses with its superior snow braking and snow handling capabilities, along with a quieter ride. On the other hand, the Cinturato All Season SF3 delivers better rolling resistance for improved fuel efficiency, dry braking, stronger snow traction, and a more affordable price point. Both are strong contenders, and the choice depends on your priorities for performance and value.
Dr Edwin Pang