Last Updated on November 15, 2024
Kumho Tires: Reliable Performance and Value for SUVs and Trucks
When talking about Kumho tires, it is not enough to call them dependable or value-oriented with great technology. It’s true but misses what makes Kumho unique in the tire world. Many leading car manufacturers choose Kumho as their default tire brand, showcasing its status as a trusted OEM tire provider. Car companies develop suspension setups with Kumho tires in mind, meaning your next car might already be fine-tuned to its design.
How does Kumho stack up when it comes to winter tires? They offer an impressive range of winter options with distinct series for passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and commercial vans, covering everything from studded options to high-performance winter tires. Let’s break down Kumho’s lineup and see how these options compare to other popular brands.
Kumho WinterCraft WP71
The Kumho WinterCraft WP71 is engineered for high-performance vehicles. It offers excellent handling and stability on icy roads. Its advanced silica compound and directional tread provide reliable traction, making it an excellent choice for winter drivers.
Features
- Tread Pattern: Directional for precise winter traction
- Silica-Enhanced Compound: Retains flexibility in cold temperatures.
- Wide Lateral Grooves: Expels slush and water to prevent hydroplaning.
- 3D Sipes: Improves snow and ice grip.
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 16″ to 19″
- Load Rating: Ranges from 94V to 101V depending on size
- Tread Depth: 9.5 mm
- Price Range: $100 – $180 per tire
Kumho WinterCraft Wi31
If you’re in areas with heavy snow or icy roads, the WinterCraft Wi31 is a standout. With a stud-ready design, this tire excels in the harshest winter conditions where maximum traction is necessary.
Features
- Studdable Design: Accommodates up to 220 studs for extreme ice traction.
- Directional Tread: Maximizes snow grip and stability.
- High-Silica Compound: Maintains elasticity in cold weather.
- Deep Channels: Quickly evacuate slush for improved safety and control.
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 14″ to 18″
- Tread Depth: 10 mm
- Load Range: 82T to 104H
- Price Range: $90 – $160 per tire
Kumho WinterCraft WS71
Built specifically for SUVs and crossovers, the Kumho WinterCraft WS71 offers stability and control for highway driving in wintry conditions. The V-shaped tread pattern helps manage slush, while the wide shoulder blocks increase contact area for stability, making it an excellent choice for urban drivers with varied winter road conditions.
Features
- V-shaped Tread Pattern: Enhances handling slush and wet conditions.
- Cold-weather compound: Prevents rubber from hardening in freezing temperatures.
- High-density Sipes: Boosts traction on ice.
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 17″ to 20″
- Load Range: 97H to 109V
- Tread Depth: 9.8 mm
- Price Range: $130 – $200 per tire
Kumho WinterCraft Ice Wi31 SUV
Built for large SUVs and light trucks, the Ice Wi31 SUV is a durable, studdable winter tire offering superior traction on ice. The high-density compound and robust tread design suit extreme winter driving well.
Features
- Stud-Compatible: Built-to-handle stud installation for better ice traction.
- Directional Tread Design: Improves traction and stability on icy roads.
- High-Density Compound: Built for durability in extreme cold.
- Deep Water Channels: Quickly clears slush and improves handling.
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 16″ to 19″
- Load Range: 95T to 107H
- Tread Depth: 10.5 mm
- Technology: Stud-ready for added grip in icy conditions
- Price Range: $140 – $220 per tire
Kumho WinterCraft WP51
Ideal for compact cars and sedans, the Kumho WinterCraft WP51 delivers reliable winter traction at an affordable price. Its symmetrical tread pattern and siping design make it a solid choice for moderate winter climates and daily commutes.
Features
- Symmetrical Tread: Ensures even wear and stable traction.
- 3D Sipes: These high-density sipes boost grip on snow-covered roads.
- Cold-Weather Compound: Keeps rubber flexible at low temperatures
- Wide Circumferential Grooves: Prevent hydroplaning in slush and rain
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 14″ to 17″
- Load Range: 82T to 98H
- Tread Depth: 9 mm
- Price Range: $80 – $140 per tire
Kumho WinterPorTran CW51
The WinterPorTran CW51 is designed for light trucks and commercial vans. It offers enhanced durability and traction for winter deliveries. It features a heavy-duty design with reinforced sidewalls for extra load-bearing capacity.
Features
- Reinforced Sidewalls: Increased durability for commercial use and heavier loads.
- Blocky Tread Pattern: Optimized for traction on snow and ice
- Cold-Resistant Compound: Ensures durability in freezing temperatures
- Wide Grooves: Prevent hydroplaning and improve slush performance
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 14″ to 16″
- Load Range: 94Q to 121R
- Tread Depth: 11 mm
- Technology: Deep channels for effective slush and water evacuation
- Price Range: $90 – $150 per tire
Kumho Solus HA31
While not a dedicated winter tire, the Solus HA31 is a year-round option that holds up in mild winter conditions. It’s all-weather tread design and moderate snow capabilities make it perfect for variable climates.
Features
- Directional All-Weather Tread: Balances dry, wet, and light snow traction.
- Siping and Grooves: These are for improved water clearance and moderate snow grip.
- All-Weather Compound: Offers flexibility across multiple seasons.
- Multi-Tread Block Design: Reduces road noise while enhancing stability.
Specifications
- Sizes Available: 14″ to 18″
- Load Range: 82H to 104H
- Tread Depth: 8 mm
- Technology: Adaptive to all-season use
- Price Range: $142
Conclusion
Kumho’s winter tire lineup has a product for almost any vehicle segment, from compact cars to SUVs and commercial vans. It is engineered to provide excellent grip, handling, and reliability. Before purchasing a set of Kumho winter tires, check your vehicle’s tire size and load specification to ensure the best fit for your winter needs.
