The Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Kumho Ecsta HS52 are both touring summer tyres that appear frequently in independent tyre tests. On our scale the PremiumContact 7 scores 98% while the Ecsta HS52 scores 74%, reflecting a clear performance gap in the test results and overall rankings.
Neither model has been replaced by a newer generation at the time of these tests.
Test positions and summaries
- The PremiumContact 7 consistently finishes at or near the top: ADAC, Autobild and Autoklub ČR list it 1st in their comparative tests. Test reports highlight best-in-class wet and dry braking, outstanding dry handling and strong overall reserves at the limit.
- The Ecsta HS52 performs well for its price and places respectably in several tests (Autobild 2nd, ADAC 3rd, Vibilagare 3rd) but falls short in others (13th in Autoklub ČR). Review summaries praise its good wet performance and value for money, but note weaker dry performance and mixed environmental ratings.
Strengths — Continental PremiumContact 7
- Class-leading wet grip and wet braking (TyreReviews, ADAC, Autobild).
- Excellent dry handling and the shortest dry braking distances in multiple tests.
- Strong all-round balance: good comfort, high predicted mileage and low fuel consumption noted by ADAC and Autobild.
- Minor negatives are mainly average aquaplaning resistance and slightly higher external noise in some lab tests.
Strengths — Kumho Ecsta HS52
- Impressive value: often highlighted for a very competitive price with surprisingly good wet-circle cornering and mileage (ADAC, Autobild).
- Good dry handling and short dry braking distances in several independent reviews (TyreReviews).
- Lower rolling resistance and low external noise reported by some testers.
Weaknesses — Continental PremiumContact 7
- Higher purchase cost compared with budget alternatives (implicit in positioning).
- Slightly average aquaplaning resistance and modest rolling resistance in some reports.
Weaknesses — Kumho Ecsta HS52
- Less consistent dry performance compared with the Continental, and weaker environmental ratings in ADAC summaries.
- Mixed test placements indicate variability across test protocols and tyre sizes; comfort is described as mediocre in Autobild.
Head-to-head verdict
Across multiple independent tests the Continental PremiumContact 7 is the superior tyre overall — it is repeatedly a testsieger, delivering the safest, most consistent wet and dry braking and the best handling at the limit. The Kumho Ecsta HS52 is a strong value choice: it delivers very good wet performance for the price and respectable dry handling, but it cannot match the PremiumContact 7’s top-end performance and consistency. If you want premium safety and handling and are willing to pay for it, choose the PremiumContact 7. If budget and value are primary and you accept slightly lower top-end performance, the Ecsta HS52 remains a compelling option.
Manufacturer pages: Continental — Kumho.
ADAC
