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Comparison: Kumho Ecsta HS52 vs. Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 vs. Michelin Primacy 5

In this comparison, we are going to look into the performance of two leading summer tires: the Kumho Ecsta HS52 and the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2.


Starting with the Kumho Ecsta HS52, it comes from the tire manufacturer Kumho and serves as a successor to the popular Kumho Ecsta HS51 model. It comes highly rated, standing at 78% in our integrated ranking system, placing it as a formidable choice in the touring sub-type category. The tire demonstrates optimal strength in mileage and wet circle cornering in the ADAC test. It finishes impressively at the third position out of 16 tested tyres, cementing its place as a top performer. Autobild also echoes ADAC's findings where it stands out for its price-value ratio and dry braking capabilities. However, it slightly underperforms in aquaplaning, indicating room for improvement.


On the other hand, the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2, emanating from the well-known tire manufacturer Dunlop, is considered a premium Ultra-High-Performance summer tire. Despite a lower rating of 72% compared to the Kumho Ecsta HS52, this tyre excels in certain areas. In the ADAC test, the tire performs well in flooded conditions, reflected in its aquaplaning - cross capabilities. Further, Autobild elevates its performance on the comfort front and lonitudal aquaplaning capability, establishing it as a strong contender even within a highly competitive field of 51 tested tyres. The delay in steering response on dry tracks demonstrates a potential weak point in its performance.


In summarising, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 scores high in being a balanced, fuel-efficient tire with superior handling capabilities on dry and wet roads but shows slight weaknesses in aquaplaning performance.


The Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 shines in the areas of aquaplaning characteristics, precise wet handling, and braking performance on both wet and dry surfaces and good ride comfort. However, a delayed steering response on dry tarmac needs to be kept into consideration.


Based on integrated ranking and individual test performances, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 seems to be the winner as the overall balanced and efficient tyre. However, the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 should not be disregarded for scenarios demanding high-performance aquaplaning mitigation and ride comfort.


It's recommended to make your tire selection based on your specific driving conditions and requirements while considering the aforementioned strengths and weaknesses of each tyre.

Test Profile

Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Dunlop
SP Sport MAXX RT2
Michelin
Primacy 5
Number of tests
10
26
3
Best position
#2
#2
#1
Average position
6.0
7.5
4.7
Latest test
2026
2025
2026
Available sizes
104
101
126

Wet

Wet
Kumho Ecsta HS52
77%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
79%
Michelin Primacy 5
58%
Wet braking
Kumho Ecsta HS52
80%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
70%
Michelin Primacy 5
65%
Aquaplaning - cross
Kumho Ecsta HS52
66%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
88%
Aquaplaning - longitudal
Kumho Ecsta HS52
73%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
92%
Michelin Primacy 5
51%
Wet circle cornering
Kumho Ecsta HS52
89%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
76%
Wet handling
Kumho Ecsta HS52
79%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
68%

Comfort

Comfort
Kumho Ecsta HS52
77%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
72%
Michelin Primacy 5
1%
Exterior noise
Kumho Ecsta HS52
73%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
72%
Comfort
Kumho Ecsta HS52
71%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
74%
Interior noise
Kumho Ecsta HS52
71%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
68%
Michelin Primacy 5
1%

Dry

Dry
Kumho Ecsta HS52
87%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
74%
Michelin Primacy 5
73%
Dry braking
Kumho Ecsta HS52
89%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
78%
Michelin Primacy 5
76%
Dry handling
Kumho Ecsta HS52
85%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
72%
Michelin Primacy 5
69%

Costs

Costs
Kumho Ecsta HS52
76%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
70%
Michelin Primacy 5
63%
Rolling resistance
Kumho Ecsta HS52
70%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
69%
Michelin Primacy 5
63%
Mileage
Kumho Ecsta HS52
79%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
65%
Price/value
Kumho Ecsta HS52
97%
Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2
70%

Dimensions and prices

Compare prices across all available dimensions for these tyres.

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