Comparison: Kumho Ecsta HS51 vs. Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125

The two summer tyres we are scrutinising here are the Kumho Ecsta HS51 and the Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125, each previously asserted for its unique strengths and weaknesses. The comparison is founded on several tyre tests in diversified conditions.

Presenting the South Korean manufactured Kumho Ecsta HS51 equipped with unique qualities in the areas of Aquaplaning - cross, Aquaplaning - longitudal, Wet handling, Wet side guide, Fuel efficiency and Exterior noise, scoring best in the tests for these particular features. However, its overall rating comes to a sum of 45%, denoting room for improvement.

Notably, the Kumho Ecsta HS51 is now replaced by its successor model, the Kumho Ecsta HS52.

On the other hand, we have the Hungarian made, initial equipment tyre for the Citroën C3 Aircross - Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125. This tyre hails a higher overall rating of 72%, affirming commendable performance. It indicates robust capabilities in Dry braking, Dry handling and Wet braking as its strongest features.

Of importance is that the Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125 has been succeeded by the advanced Hankook Ventus Prime 4.

As per the test ratings, the Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125 consistently outperformed the Kumho Ecsta HS51 in all mutual tests. Impressively, in an Autobild test, it acquired the 2nd position out of 50 tyres, while the Ecsta HS51 only managed to come 17th.

Although the Ecsta HS51 models scored well in Aquaplaning and Wet handling criteria, its overall performance fell short in the face of the Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125's outstanding performance in Dry braking, Dry handling and Wet braking modes. Also, in an ADAC test with 16 tyres, the Ventus Prime3 K125 finished 5th, outpacing the Ecsta HS51 that ended up occupying the 8th slot. The same occurred in a Teknikens test.

To conclude, the unanimous decision carved out from the test data decidedly favours the Hankook Ventus Prime3 K125 as the better tyre, owing to its precise control and braking performance in both dry and wet conditions. Albeit, individuals specifically seeking features like Aquaplaning or Wet handling may find the Kumho Ecsta HS51 a match for their requirements.

Check out more about Kumho here and Hankook here.