Hankook Ventus Prime 4 vs Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2: Ladies and gentlemen, gearheads, and rubber enthusiasts, brace yourselves for the ultimate tire showdown! This battle of the titans isn’t about the machines they’re fitted onto, but the rubber that meets the road. Two stalwarts of the tire industry go tread-to-tread, facing off in the arena of performance and efficiency. In the blue corner, we have a veteran from 2020 that refuses to be outdone – the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2. In the red corner, the young and audacious contender from 2022 – the Hankook Ventus Prime 4.
Fresh from the factory, the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 hits the market with a bang, seeking to establish itself as the undisputed champion of durability and control. Hankook’s relentless pursuit of innovation and performance is evident in every inch of this tire. It’s not just new; it’s a revolution on rubber, armed with cutting-edge technology to take on any challenger, old or new. But don’t be quick to write off the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2. Though introduced back in 2020, this tire has held its own against the onslaught of newer models. A testament to Goodyear’s unrivaled experience and commitment to quality, this tire boasts superior fuel efficiency and an impressive grip, refusing to loosen its hold on the performance market. The EfficientGrip Performance 2 reminds us all: experience should never be underestimated.
So, buckle up and prepare for this epic duel. Will the youthful agility and bold innovation of the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 prove to be the ultimate decider? Or will the tried-and-true dependability and proven performance of the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 continue its reign? Only the road can decide. This is the duel of the decade, a showdown that promises to redefine the way we look at tires. It’s Hankook vs Goodyear, new vs old, innovation vs experience, and it promises to be a thrilling ride. Welcome to the tire battle of the century!
Table of Contents
New Feature Highlights:
Hankook Ventus Prime 4: Exceptional cross-directional water drainage
This enhances safety when driving on damp roadways through improved water dispersal characteristics on the road surface.
Hankook Ventus Prime 4: 3D Zigzag Tread Pattern Technology
This boosts dry road performance by raising the traction of the tire block in response to deformation.
Results
Results below were taken from the 2023 Tyre Reviews Best Summer Tyres Test which includes 13 top tires in the market. The graph below shows the comparison between Hankook Ventus Prime 4 vs Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 based on the relevant performance category. The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 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%.
The tire size of interest is 205/55R16 which is a common tire size for Volkswagen Golf (2018) and the Toyota Corolla Altis (2018). You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a standard VW Golf.
Wet
When it comes to wet performance, both the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 showcase impressive numbers, demonstrating their respective company’s dedication to safety and performance under demanding conditions. Starting with wet braking, both tires perform closely, with the Ventus Prime 4 holding a slight edge. Hankook’s offering stops at 34.12 meters, slightly besting the Goodyear’s 34.34 meters. While the difference may seem marginal, every fraction of a meter counts when it comes to quick and safe stopping in wet conditions.
In the realm of wet handling, the tables turn slightly. The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 shows a stronger performance with a timing of 84.81 seconds, compared to the Ventus Prime 4’s 86.47 seconds. It’s clear that Goodyear’s heritage of focusing on grip and control pays off in these conditions. Subjective wet handling for both tires is tied at 9.5 points. This indicates that both tires provide a comparable level of confidence and feel to the driver, further intensifying this heated rivalry.
The wet circle test also shows a closely fought contest. Goodyear’s EfficientGrip Performance 2 clocks in at 11.57 seconds, narrowly edging out the Ventus Prime 4’s 11.71 seconds. This result suggests slightly superior lateral grip and stability from the Goodyear tire when maneuvering on wet surfaces. Straight aquaplaning performance is another crucial aspect. Here, the Goodyear tire again shows a marginal lead with a speed of 74.98 Km/H, against Hankook’s 73.6 Km/H. Higher speeds in this test indicate better resistance to aquaplaning, giving the Goodyear a slight edge. Lastly, in curved aquaplaning, the EfficientGrip Performance 2 demonstrates superior performance with 3.4 m/sec², compared to the Ventus Prime 4’s 2.81 m/sec². This suggests that the Goodyear tire can maintain better control and safety during wet cornering situations.
In summary, while the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 shows a marginally better wet braking performance, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 exhibits an overall edge in most other wet performance parameters. However, the competition is close, with both tires displaying commendable performances in wet conditions.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- -0.6% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (lap time)
- 0% in wet handling (subj)
- +1.2% in wet circle
- +1.9% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
Shifting our attention to dry performance, we once again find a neck-to-neck competition between the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2. When examining dry braking performance, both tires deliver closely comparable results, providing excellent control and stopping power. The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 registers a stopping distance of 36.09 meters, just barely edging out the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, which stops at 36.31 meters. This small difference may seem insignificant, but when it comes to safety, every little bit counts.
As for dry handling, the competition remains fierce. The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 navigates the dry handling course in 51.78 seconds, barely quicker than the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2’s time of 51.85 seconds. The near-identical times in this test reveal the high-quality engineering and performance capabilities of both tires. In terms of subjective dry handling, both contenders have once again hit a stalemate with a score of 9 points each. This shows that both tires provide an equally pleasing and confident driving experience when handling dry road conditions.
To sum it up, the dry performance comparison reveals a high degree of competitiveness between the two tires, with the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 taking a microscopic lead in both dry braking and handling times. Nonetheless, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 continues to hold its own admirably, further validating why this duel is so electrifying. It’s an excellent showcase of what top-tier tire engineering can offer in terms of performance and driver satisfaction.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- -0.6% in dry braking
- -0.1% in dry handling (lap time)
- 0% in dry handling (subj)
Noise & Comfort
Turning our gaze to the comfort and noise aspects of these two tire behemoths, the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, we’re presented with a mixed bag of performance. In terms of subjective comfort, we witness another dead heat. Both the Ventus Prime 4 and the EfficientGrip Performance 2 score an impressive 9.5 points, suggesting that both tires provide comparable ride comfort, smoothness, and stability, which are crucial elements in ensuring a pleasurable driving experience.
However, the picture turns slightly sour when we delve into the noise performance. Here, we see the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 registering a substantial 72.8 decibels of noise, which, while within acceptable limits, falls short when compared to the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2’s quieter 70.8 decibels. This difference can indeed have a noticeable impact on the overall driving experience, as tire noise contributes significantly to cabin noise and can detract from the comfort of both the driver and passengers.
This stark contrast in noise performance is a dent in Hankook’s otherwise sterling performance, an Achilles heel that relegates it to the back of the pack in terms of exterior noise. Hankook, a brand known for its relentless pursuit of perfection and innovation, finds itself grappling with this setback in the face of an older but evidently more refined Goodyear model.
In summary, while the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 may tie with the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 in terms of subjective comfort, the latter clearly holds the upper hand in noise performance. In this battle of titans, it’s a critical reminder that a truly excellent tire isn’t just about speed, grip, and durability, but also the comfort and serenity it offers to the occupants of the vehicle.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- +2.8% in exterior noise (-2 dB)
- 0% in subjective comfort
Rolling Resistance
As we turn our attention to the rolling resistance performance of the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, we’re stepping into an area of tire design that has profound implications for sustainability and the fight against climate change.
Rolling resistance refers to the force that opposes the motion when a tire rolls on a surface. A lower rolling resistance means less energy is required to keep the tire moving, which in turn translates to improved fuel efficiency. By reducing fuel consumption, tires with lower rolling resistance contribute to lower carbon dioxide emissions, playing a significant role in the broader goal of achieving net-zero carbon targets.
The Hankook Ventus Prime 4 presents a rolling resistance of 8.36 kg/t, which, while respectable, falls short when compared to the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2’s impressive 7.52 kg/t. Goodyear’s prowess in engineering a tire that combines excellent performance with lower rolling resistance is a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. This outcome emphasizes Goodyear’s deep understanding that creating a high-performance tire is not just about grip, handling, and comfort. In our world today, grappling with the reality of climate change, achieving reduced rolling resistance is an essential aspect of tire design.
In conclusion, while both tires offer strong performances in their respective areas, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 demonstrates a clear advantage in terms of rolling resistance. This outcome aligns with broader global objectives of reducing carbon emissions and attaining sustainability goals, proving that performance and eco-friendliness can indeed go hand in hand in tire design.
EfficientGrip Performance 2 :
- +11.2% in rolling resistance
Price
In the ever-crucial matter of price, we see a considerable difference between the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 for the 205/55 R16 tire size.
Tire size: 205/55 R16
- Ventus Prime 4 : £68
- EfficientGrip Performance 2 : £83
Difference: +30% more expensive for EfficientGrip Performance 2.
Priced at £68, the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 offers a compelling proposition for drivers seeking a balance between performance and affordability. The tire’s strong showings in both wet and dry conditions, combined with its high comfort ratings, make it a solid choice for the price-conscious consumer who doesn’t want to compromise on quality.
On the other hand, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, with its higher price tag of £83, demands a premium of 30% over the Hankook tire. However, it justifies this premium with superior noise levels, exceptional rolling resistance, and competitive performance in both wet and dry conditions. It’s a tire aimed at those who are willing to pay a bit extra for refinement, sustainability, and the Goodyear brand’s time-tested reliability.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual priorities. If price plays a significant role in your decision, the Ventus Prime 4 may be the more attractive option. However, if factors like noise performance, sustainability, and a slight edge in various performance parameters weigh heavier, the extra cost of the EfficientGrip Performance 2 may be well justified.
This pricing comparison clearly illustrates that the tire market caters to a wide range of needs and budgets. Whether it’s the more affordable Hankook Ventus Prime 4 or the premium Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2, consumers can find a product that matches their specific requirements and price range.
Summary
To summarize this epic duel of rubber and road, the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 have each proven their strengths in various areas, offering a riveting blend of performance, comfort, and innovation. In terms of performance, the Ventus Prime 4 put forth a strong show, especially in dry conditions, with a minor edge in braking and handling. It matched the EfficientGrip Performance 2 in terms of subjective comfort and handling, providing ample proof of its quality and value.
However, Goodyear’s EfficientGrip Performance 2 displayed a breadth of strengths. Its slightly superior wet handling performance, lower noise levels, and impressive rolling resistance, underscore the company’s commitment to creating a product that balances performance, comfort, and environmental responsibility. When it comes to cost, the more affordable Hankook Ventus Prime 4 makes a strong case for those on a tighter budget, providing a solid balance of performance and comfort for a lesser price. However, for those willing to invest more for a tire that excels in noise performance and sustainability, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 is a worthy contender, despite its higher cost.
In conclusion, both the Hankook Ventus Prime 4 and the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 are formidable tires, each with their unique selling points. The ultimate decision hinges on individual priorities and preferences. Regardless of the choice, both options stand as testament to the incredible strides made in tire technology, and the ongoing commitment to innovation, safety, comfort, and sustainability in the tire industry. This duel underscores that the journey is just as important as the destination, and how that journey feels under your wheels can make all the difference.