Last Updated on November 18, 2024
Why Choose Nexen Tires?
From its humble beginnings in the 1940s to its expansion as a popular brand, Nexen (named as a combination of “next” and “century”) has come a long way. Constantly striving for perfection while offering dependable products at affordable prices, its philosophy has proven itself on the streets and the race tracks.
However, winter tires are a specific car tire segment where design, engineering, and technology missteps can lead to unpleasant and potentially dangerous surprises. Entering this competitive market was initially a big challenge for Nexen. Still, they continued to advance as a customer favorite, showing meticulous attention to detail, consistent improvement, and countless hours of real-life testing. As a result, Nexen’s winter tires stand out as one of the best moderately priced options available that clearly exceed expectations.
Nexen has developed a diverse winter tire lineup to fit various driving needs. This article features seven of their highly rated models, including studded and studless options.
Nexen Winguard Winspike 3
The Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 is a studded winter tire engineered for enhanced grip on icy and snow-packed roads. It is designed with 3D sipes and V-shaped directional tread patterns that work together to provide excellent traction and stability.
Features
- Studded design: Offers superior grip on ice and compacted snow.
- V-shaped directional tread: Enhances water and slush dispersion to minimize hydroplaning.
- 3D sipes: Improve braking performance and cornering stability.
- Dual-layer tread compound: Maintains flexibility in sub-zero temperatures for consistent performance.
Specifications
- Speed rating: T (up to 118 mph)
- Available sizes: 14-19 inches
- Load index: Varies per size, typically ranging from 88 to 104.
- Tread depth: 12-13/32 inch
- Price: $68 – $306 per tire, depending on size.
Nexen Winguard Snow’G WH2
The Winguard Snow’G WH2 is a studless winter tire for sedans and compact vehicles. This model balances traction, handling, and comfort, making it an excellent option for everyday winter driving.
Features
- Asymmetric tread pattern: Enhances cornering stability and even wear.
- High-density multi-sipes: Increase the tire’s biting edges for better traction on snow and ice.
- 3D kerf technology: Provides excellent braking performance by preventing tread block movement.
- Advanced silica compound: Improves wet performance and reduces rolling resistance.
Specifications
- Speed rating: H (up to 130 mph)
- Available sizes: 13-18 inches
- Load index: 75 to 98, varying by size.
- Tread depth: Approximately 10/32 inch
- Price: $65 – $170 per tire.
Nexen Winguard Ice Plus (W605)
The Winguard Ice Plus (W605) is designed for passenger vehicles and prioritizes ice traction with its unique tread design and rubber compound.
Features
- Dual V-shaped tread: Improves ice and snow evacuation.
- High-density wave sipes: Micro-sipes help optimize grip in winter conditions.
- Flexible rubber compound: Enhances traction in low temperatures.
- 3D Shoulder block design: Adds stability and control when cornering.
Specifications
- Speed rating: T (up to 118 mph)
- Available sizes: 14-17 inches
- Load index: Commonly between 84 and 99.
- Tread depth: Approximately 10-11/32 inch
- Price: $107 – $126 per tire.
Nexen Winguard Sport 2
The Winguard Sport 2 is a performance-oriented winter tire for high-speed driving on highways and urban roads. It’s an ideal option for sports cars and performance sedans that need a balance of grip and handling in winter.
Features
- Directional tread design: Maximizes water and slush expulsion for better hydroplaning resistance.
- 3D sipes: Enhance traction and braking performance.
- Wide circumferential grooves: Aid in water evacuation for increased wet traction.
- Silica-infused tread compound: Ensures flexibility and durability in cold weather.
Specifications
- Speed rating: V (up to 149 mph)
- Available sizes: 16-20 inches
- Load index: Typically between 94 and 110.
- Tread depth: 10-11/32 inch
- Price: $102 – $172 per tire.
Nexen Winguard Ice SUV
The Winguard Ice SUV is designed specifically for SUVs and crossover vehicles. Its robust design handles heavier loads while maintaining exceptional winter performance.
Features
- Studless design: Ideal for areas where studded tires are restricted.
- Optimized wide tread: Evenly distributes the vehicle’s weight for stability and control.
- Wave-pattern sipes: Provide increased grip on snow and ice.
- High-stiffness tread block: Enhances cornering performance.
Specifications
- Speed rating: T (up to 118 mph)
- Available sizes: 16-20 inches
- Load index: Ranges from 100 to 116.
- Tread depth: Around 11/32 inch
- Price: $212 – $268 per tire.
Nexen Winguard Winspike WH62
The Winguard Winspike WH62 is a newer model in the stable category, designed to offer improved ice and snow performance through advanced tread technology.
Features
- Studdable design: Option for added grip in icy conditions.
- Directional tread pattern: Facilitates adequate water and slush removal.
- Multi-wave sipes: Provide increased traction and minimized noise.
- High stiffness blocks: Support enhanced handling and stability.
Specifications
- Speed rating: T (up to 118 mph)
- Available sizes: 14-18 inches
- Load index: Typically between 88 and 104.
- Tread depth: Approximately 12/32 inch
- Price: $132 – $159 per tire.
Nexen Winguard Winspike (Commercial Vehicles)
The Winguard Winspike is Nexen’s solution for light trucks and commercial vehicles. It combines durability with reliable winter traction and is built to handle the demands of frequent heavy loads in harsh winter conditions.
Features
- Reinforced tread blocks: Provide durability and long-lasting wear.
- Straight and zigzag groove patterns: Enhance traction on snow and ice.
- Optimized tread depth: Extends the tire’s life while maintaining winter grip.
- 3D sipes: Offer improved traction without sacrificing stability.
Specifications
- Speed rating: R (up to 106 mph)
- Available sizes: 15-17 inches
- Load index: 99 to 120, depending on size.
- Tread depth: 12-13/32 inch
- Price: $117 – $165 per tire.
Conclusion
From compact cars to SUVs and commercial vehicles, Nexen offers a well-rounded lineup of winter tires that can handle all driving conditions. Their winter tires deliver robust performance on ice and reliable traction on snow. Of course, before you buy a new set of winter tires, you should always confirm the dimensions and tire type and shop according to your driving habits. At Tires Easy, we always offer the best possible price with quick turnaround times.
