Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Kumho Ecsta HS52: The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, launched in 2020, faces off against the Kumho Ecsta HS52, which entered the market in 2022. Pirelli, known for its premium status and long-standing reputation, is challenged by the rapidly improving Kumho, which has been making significant strides in the tire industry. Can Kumho, with its latest offering, dethrone Pirelli in this competitive touring segment battle?
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Results: Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Kumho Ecsta HS52
Results below were taken from the 2024 Auto Bild Summer independent Tire Test which includes 21 top tires in the market. The graph below shows the comparison between Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Kumho Ecsta HS52 based on the relevant performance category. The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet & dry handling evaluation, the average lap speed was used instead of the standard lap time & subjective rating. The tire size of interest is a 205/55R16 which is a common tire size for Volkswagen Golf & Toyota Corolla . You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Volkswagen Golf
Wet
In wet braking, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 shows clear dominance by stopping 3.6 meters shorter than the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2. In wet handling, the HS52 also outperforms, navigating the course at 75.7 km/h compared to the P7 C2’s 74.6 km/h. In straight-line aquaplaning resistance, the Kumho again takes the lead at 82.4 km/h, slightly better than the Pirelli’s 81.1 km/h. The HS52 consistently outshines the P7 C2 in wet conditions.
Ecsta HS52 :
- +9% in wet braking
- +1% in wet handling (average speed)
- +2% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 stops 0.9 meters shorter than the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, showing a slight advantage. When it comes to dry handling, the HS52 also edges ahead, maintaining a speed of 116 km/h compared to the P7 C2’s 115.4 km/h. Overall, the Kumho demonstrates better performance in dry conditions against the Pirelli.
Ecsta HS52 :
- +3% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (average speed)
Mileage
In terms of mileage, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 shows superior wear performance, lasting 2,250 km longer than the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2. This indicates that the HS52 offers better durability and longer-lasting tread life compared to the P7 C2.
Ecsta HS52 :
- +9% in mileage
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 is slightly quieter, producing 73.1 dB compared to the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2’s 73.6 dB. This small difference shows the HS52 offers a marginally more silent ride than the P7 C2.
Ecsta HS52 :
- +1% in exterior noise (-0.5 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 slightly outperforms the Kumho Ecsta HS52 with a lower resistance of 8.36 N/kN compared to the HS52’s 8.46 N/kN. This indicates that the P7 C2 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the HS52.
Ecsta HS52 :
- -1% in rolling resistance
Price
For the tire size 205/55 R16, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 is priced at €81, while the Kumho Ecsta HS52 costs €69. The HS52 is 17% cheaper, reflecting its position as a value option compared to the premium-quality P7 C2.
Tire size: 205/55 R16
- Cinturato P7 C2 : € 81
- Ecsta HS52 : € 69
Difference: -17% more cheaper for Ecsta HS52.
Summary
As a tire expert, it’s clear that the Kumho Ecsta HS52 outperforms the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 across multiple key metrics. The HS52 shows superior wet and dry braking, better handling, longer mileage, and a quieter ride, all while being more affordable. Kumho has made impressive strides, proving that a quality tire doesn’t always have to come with a premium price tag. The Ecsta HS52 clearly dominates in this comparison, offering a compelling choice for those seeking performance and value in the touring segment.
Dr Edwin Pang